Your Offer Holder's Guide 2026

Your Offer Holder’s Guide

Congratulations on receiving your offer of a place at the University of Chester!

This guide offers an insider’s perspective into the vibrant student experience available at Chester, giving you a flavour of how you can thrive and belong in our community. It’s your opportunity to explore what the University has to offer you, ensuring you have the right information to make your decision.

Scan here to discover Chester: chester.ac.uk

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Contents 4 Award-winning University 6 Get World Ready 8 It’s More Than a Degree 10 A Premium Teaching and Learning Experience 12 Built-in Professional Development Module 14 Languages for All 15 Study Abroad 16 Earn While You Learn 17 Careers and Employability 18 Join Our Community 20 Chester Students’ Union 22 Sport and Active Lifestyle 24 Student Support 26 Peer Mentoring 27 Faith and Belief 28 Sustainability at Chester 29 Volunteering 30 All About Chester 32 A City of Culture, History and Good Times!

36 Food and Drink 38 Nightlife 40 Get Ahead 42 What Happens Next?

44 Applicant Days 46 Stay in the Loop

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Award–winning University First up, some quick facts on how we are shaping the region as a leading university in the North West.

Top 5 for Graduate Success

1st in the North West for Lecturers and Teaching Quality

Chester ranks among the best in the North West for highly-skilled graduate employment, exceeding the sector average for the number of graduates in both employment/ further study and high-skilled graduate employment.

Our approach to teaching is all about getting students a step ahead. Our expert staff are passionate about students’ development, and the practical learning embedded into our teaching results in our course being closely linked to the real world.

(Graduate Outcomes Survey 2025) See page 8 for details

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(WhatUni Student Choice Awards 2025) See page 10 for details

Find out more by visiting: chester.ac.uk/awards

1st in the North West for Student Support

1st in North West England for Facilities

Our staff go the extra mile to ensure students succeed, offering a range of support services for all students.

We take pride in providing students with the information, advice and guidance needed to support them in both their studies and personal lives. We offer a wide range of services covering wellbeing and mental health, disability and inclusion, study skills and more.

Our learning locations are packed full of subject-specific facilities, as well as their own libraries, computer suites and study areas, along with plenty of spaces to get something to eat, have a drink or simply take a break and catch up with friends in between teaching sessions.

(WhatUni Student Choice Awards 2025) See page 22 for details

(WhatUni Student Choice Awards 2025) See page 24 for details

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Get World Ready 7

It’s More Than a Degree By choosing to study at the University of Chester, you’ll be joining a university with a real focus on making you not just ‘work ready’, but ‘World Ready’.

Our approach to teaching is all about getting you a step ahead. Our expert staff are passionate about your development and will help you gain the skills, knowledge and experience you need to succeed. Alongside this are a wealth of opportunities to boost your CV, from free language courses to enhancing your digital skills, as well as placements in the UK and overseas, helping you to build connections throughout your degree.

You’ll leave us a step ahead, connected to a global network of people who are eager to support you on your way.

No matter what your ambitions are, we’ll help you get there.

Learn more here: chester.ac.uk/modern-learning

“The support from the University has truly enriched my journey.

The career services and various university activities kept me engaged and prepared me to be World Ready.”

Adrija International Business 8

Chester Credentials Enhance your digital skills and boost your employability with Chester Credentials, our series of free, online short courses available to all students. With topics including Digital Literacy, SEO Fundamentals and Career Preparation, each ‘nano-credential’ is designed to be a flexible and bite-sized way to get skilled up and will complement your degree studies.

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A Premium Teaching and Learning Experience Our ‘Chester Future Skills Curriculum’ has been developed to maximise your student learning experience, and focuses on: • Courses informed by employers • Collaborative and social, immersive learning • Authentic assessment and real-world applications • Opportunities to build your professional network • Flexible and accessible This means we’ll always be helping you to develop the right skills and expertise needed for that graduate career you aspire to.

For more information, visit: chester.ac.uk/chester-future-skills

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Built-in Professional Development

Module Our unique Professional Development Module is a core part of your course*, designed to give you a competitive edge in the job market and set you up for a successful future. We believe in learning that extends beyond the classroom. This is your opportunity to gain hands-on, real-world experience, ensuring that when you graduate, you are a well-rounded and highly employable professional. *Please note that this module does not feature in all of our professional and regulated degrees, which follow a slightly different academic framework and will include more substantial professional practice.

Discover more at: chester.ac.uk/professionaldevelopment-module

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Choose Your Path

Overseas Opportunities

We understand that every student’s journey is different. That’s why you have the unique opportunity to tailor your professional development experience to your interests and career goals.

Why not combine your professional development with an international experience? You could choose a study, internship, or volunteering project overseas. We have a variety of options available all over the world, including destinations like South Africa, the USA, France, Spain, and Costa Rica. This means that you can build networks globally, and travel while doing it.

Work Placement You can gain invaluable practical experience by completing a work placement as part of your degree. This dedicated time spent gaining valuable experience in industry can take you locally, nationally, or even overseas. We have strong links with a range of local employers, including: • Cheshire Police • Chester Zoo • National Museums Liverpool • Storyhouse • British Heart Foundation You also have the flexibility to source your own placement.

Experiential Project As an alternative to a placement, you can work on a hands-on, real-world project related to your sector. These projects are designed in close collaboration with employers and other partners to ensure you learn the in-demand skills that they are looking for. It’s a fantastic way to develop your professional abilities and showcase your talent.

Learn a Language If you’re looking for an alternative opportunity to develop both personally and professionally, you could take up a new language, no prior experience required. This is a great way to enhance your CV, develop valuable communication skills, and prepare for global career opportunities. Whether you’re interested in travel, international work, or simply want to broaden your horizons, learning a language can enrich your university experience and set you apart in the job market.

This module is just one of the many ways we ensure our courses are rigorously informed by employers, skills-based, and career-focused, giving you the best possible preparation for your future and you can leave as a confident and prepared graduate.

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Languages for All If you’re looking to learn a new skill, why not join one of our parttime language courses. All of our courses have a reduced rate of £100 and, better still, this fee is reimbursed once you’ve completed 80% of the course – so it’ll be completely free. You can choose from a range of languages including, but not limited to: Arabic, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean and Spanish.* For further information, you can email: lfa@chester.ac.uk

*All courses will run subject to demand and will be offered virtually if necessary.

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Study Abroad You will have the opportunity to broaden your horizons, experience another country and extend your network overseas with the expertise of our Study Abroad team.

There’s a huge variety of places to choose from, with opportunities in over 300 institutions worldwide, and you’ll be supported by our Study Abroad team all the way.

To find out more, visit: chester.ac.uk/study-abroad

“I studied abroad with Chester and achieved my long-term goal of studying at elite universities in Seoul and Sydney. Studying abroad is incredible as it enables you to enhance your academic abilities, pushes you out of your comfort zone, develops your intercultural competence, and ultimately allows you to become the person you are truly meant to be.”

Luisa International Tourism Management 15

Earn While You Learn Whether you are looking to earn some extra money while you’re studying or you’re looking for experience to aid your future career goals, our Careers and Employability team can help.

We can support you by: • Providing work opportunities on campus through UniJob • Helping you find local part-time roles • Hosting Careers Fairs, enabling you to meet employers face-to-face For more information, visit: chester.ac.uk/EWYL

“Being a student ambassador has been a great way to earn extra money whilst studying, and developing my communication and interpersonal skills, which will be vital for my future career.”

Holly Nutrition and Dietetics 16

Careers and Employability The Careers and Employability team provide a service tailored to your personal goals and aspirations, with a variety of employability-enhancing experiences available to you, setting you apart in the job market.

Build Connections with Employers Enhance your professional network and open doors to future career prospects with supported Chester internships, placements, part-time work and graduate level role opportunities.

Lifelong Commitment to Your Success Our commitment to your success does not end at graduation; with our ‘Careers for Life’ promise, you can continue to access valuable careers information and advice long after you have left Chester.

Our alumni network is a testament to the strong bonds formed at Chester.

Discover more at: chester.ac.uk/careers-and-employability 17

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Join Our Community 19

Chester Students’ Union Hello and welcome to Chester Students’ Union (CSU)! We are the elected officers for 2025/26: President Lily, VP Education Luis, and VP Student Life Will.

We are a separate organisation to the University, and we exist for the sole purpose of helping students have the best experience at the University of Chester.

We do this by ensuring the student voice is at the heart of all decision making and is fairly represented at all University of Chester sites. We also offer advice to students, run societies for students to get involved in, and hold fun events throughout the academic year at Chester, Warrington, and Birkenhead.

To find out exactly what we get up to and how you can get involved, head to our website at chestersu.com and follow us on social media!

@ChesterStudentsUnion @chesterstudentsunion 20

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Sport and Active Lifestyle With our sports facilities located conveniently on campus, take a break from your studies and make some time for yourself to keep fit and feel good.

Available on our Exton Park campus, students have access to our on-site gym, spin studio, swimming pool and free use of facilities such as tennis courts, squash courts, sports hall, and football and hockey pitches.

Join our activeCHESTER sessions – free, fun, social sessions to meet new people!

Our sessions are set for you to enjoy them at your own pace, with no pressure and no commitment to attend regularly. You just turn up and play!

We also have volunteer opportunities within activeCHESTER. To find out more, email: sal@chester.ac.uk If you are feeling stressed, anxious, lonely or low in confidence – we have a free six-week Active Wellbeing Programme to support your wellbeing though physical activity, in a way that works for you.

To find out more, email: activewellbeing@chester.ac.uk

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Under sportCHESTER you can join one of our 30+ clubs, many of which train to represent the University of Chester in the British Universities and Colleges Sport (BUCS) leagues.

Not every club is about competition – some are all about having fun, staying active, being part of a club and making lasting friendships.

Not interested in playing? We have plenty of volunteering opportunities to work alongside our sports clubs, including coaching and pitch-side first aid.

To find out more, email: clubsport@chester.ac.uk

Being involved in a sport is an amazing way to get stuck into university life! The women’s basketball team has been so much fun and I’ve made some invaluable friendships over the last three years.

Find out more about Sports and Active Lifestyle: chester.ac.uk/active

Holly Nutrition and Dietetics 23

Student Support Personal Academic Tutor Every student is assigned a Personal Academic Tutor (PAT), who will support you throughout your degree.

Your PAT will guide and inspire you, shaping you into a confident graduate ready for whatever the future holds.

For more details, see: chester.ac.uk/PAT

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From my transfer application through to my first week of lectures, the University continuously communicated and supported me as a new student.

Luisa International Tourism Management

Our Student Services team is here to help you feel supported and settled at the University of Chester. We work across all our sites to provide expert guidance in areas that could be impacting your life or studies, including: • Disability and Inclusion • Financial Support • Residential Life • Student Experience • Student Safety • Wellbeing, Mental Health and Counselling The teams offer practical information and advice to ensure you are supported throughout your studies.

This includes a range of bursaries, financial support and expert advice to help with the cost of living.

Check out our Money Hub for an overview of what’s on offer: chester.ac.uk/money-hub To find out more about Student Services, visit: chester.ac.uk/ student-support or email: studentservices@chester.ac.uk For more detail on the services available, watch here:

After meeting with an Academic Skills advisor, I understood what was required to produce a good essay, and became confident and proud of what I wrote.

Caisey Children’s Nursing 25

Peer Mentoring New Here? So Were We – Get a Peer Mentor!

A Peer Mentor is a current student volunteer who has already completed their first year at the University. They’re here to offer guidance, share insights, and support you as you settle into University life.

Think of them as a friendly guide who can answer your questions and offer tips on how to make the most of your first year!

To find out more, please email: peermentoring@chester.ac.uk

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Faith and Belief Our multi-faith Chaplaincy team is here to support all students and staff whatever your religion or beliefs may be, and chaplains are always ready to help you and offer a listening ear.

The Chaplaincy team is based in the Community Hub, Exton Park, and you can pop in Monday to Thursday to enjoy areas such as our quiet Sanctuary Space, the Creative Art Space, the Games Room, and our awardwinning Wellbeing Garden & Peace Garden with a wildlife pond. Supporting students across all University sites, the team are available in-person or online via Teams. We also have a wider team of volunteer Associate Chaplains from various religious communities.

To find out more about weekly events and activities, follow @uoc_chaplaincy on Instagram.

You can get in touch via chaplaincy@chester.ac.uk 27

Sustainability at Chester We have a dedicated Sustainability Team in place to ensure that the University of Chester leads by example, and we run a number of initiatives to encourage action to be taken.

Here are some of the ways our students can get involved: • Carbon Literacy training • Thematic Sustainability Action Groups • University gardening sessions at the Community Hub and Allotment • On-site clothing Swap Shop • Volunteer opportunities at linked, sustainabilityminded organisations • Annual ‘Spring into Sustainability’ week Follow the team on Instagram: @uoc_sustainability Get in contact: sustainability@chester.ac.uk

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Volunteering Volunteering is a great way to meet like-minded people, build your transferable skills and give back to your local community, all while having fun with exciting new experiences!

All students have access to our Volunteer Hub, connecting you to opportunities both within the University, and local charities. You could also apply for our Chester Volunteering Awards (UCV) in recognition of your time as a volunteer.

There are plenty of opportunities to get involved with, from one-offs to longer-term roles. Whether you have a passion for conservation, a love of sport, an interest in history or something else entirely – there’s an opportunity for you!

Check out our ‘give it a go’ programme of events – one-off sessions organised by the University, designed to give you a taste of volunteering.

Volunteering to help walk dogs in the local community has improved my mental health during stressful times.

To get involved and find out more, contact: volunteering@chester.ac.uk

Ashli Creative Writing and English Literature 29

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All About Chester 31

A City of Culture, History and Good Times!

Home to year-round arts and culture festivals, international events and attractions, including the famous Chester Races; Chester Zoo; The Walls; and the medieval Rows, Chester has lots to offer – and all within walking distance of our campuses! Chester is a thriving 21st-century city, with high street and independent restaurants, cafés and boutique shops.

At night, the beautiful cobbled streets, bustling with shoppers and tourists, transform into a lively but safe evening scene, with a large variety of pubs, music venues, bars and clubs to choose from.

Storyhouse One of the UK’s most successful cultural buildings, Storyhouse is a library, theatre and cinema all in one! With over 2,000 activities every year to get involved with, regular student deals including free tea and coffee, and great areas for studying off campus, there’s something for everyone.

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Chester Pride Every August, Chester Pride organises a fun-filled parade and day of events that celebrates diversity and the LGBTQ+ community in Chester and Cheshire.

The Groves

Chester Cathedral

Enjoy a walk down by the river, along the famous Groves. It’s nice to sit and watch the boats go past and there are plenty of opportunities to go on a paddle or motorboat.

Pop into the Cathedral and marvel at the immensity of the building’s architecture or climb the tower for spectacular views of Chester. We’re proud to host our graduation ceremonies within the Cathedral walls every year.

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Chester Market

Picturehouse

The modern-traditional market is a welcoming space with a fantastic selection of authentic global eateries all under one roof. A quick walk from Exton Park, it’s a great place to catch up with friends and grab a bite to eat – no matter what you’re in the mood for.

Beyond the big blockbusters, Picturehouse is your go-to for independent films, special events, and the best cinema snacks in a vibrant, relaxed setting. It’s the perfect place to get your film fix and meet fellow movie lovers.

Chester Zoo

The Rows

Our highly acclaimed zoo has been named best in the UK by TripAdvisor, with over 11,000 ‘Excellent’ ratings! The zoo is home to over 37,000 animals, within over 128 acres of beautiful zoological gardens, so that they can survive and thrive.

There’s plenty of shopping for you to do on Chester’s high streets; unique to Chester are the historic Rows which offer a second layer of shops, cafés, bars and restaurants – all under cover.

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After my classes, I really enjoy taking a scenic walk along the river or across the city walls – it’s very peaceful!

Luisa International Tourism Management

We’re proud to be a part of Chester’s ‘One City Plan’, setting out a vision with partners across the city, for how the public, private and voluntary sector can work together to make Chester a fairer, stronger and greener city.

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Chester has so many great places for food and drink!

Food and Drink

Holly Nutrition and Dietetics

Knoops

The Flower Cup

Knoopology: the art of crafting the perfect chocolate drink. There is something for every taste, mood and individual – why not top it off with a handmade Knoops marshmallow!

(15% off drinks in-store for all students!)

Independent botanical coffee shop serving all day brunch, specialty coffees, teas and cakes. Located on the historic Watergate Rows.

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Telford’s Warehouse On the water and off the wall...

Great music, fabulous menu, sumptuous sunsets and the best stocked bar in town!

Dabba South Indian comfort food in the heart of Chester. Nicely spicy and not too pricey!

Hickory’s Smokehouse Delivering authentic American flavours of the Deep South, the barbecue style restaurant lives and breathes the value of southern USA hospitality.

American Pizza Slice So, you think you know pizza? Fresh pizza by the slice, with New York, Chicago and Detroit styles all available.

The Pied Bull Traditional British independent pub serving great food and drinks, including award winning beers from an on-site microbrewery.

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Nightlife Chester’s nightlife ranges from quirky bars and ancient pubs, to band and rock nights or cheesy tunes, creative cocktails and many discounted student nights! Chester has also been granted ‘Purple Flag’ status in recognition of its flourishing night-time economy and acknowledged position as a student-friendly city.

Watergates Bar

Love Shack

An atmospheric, crypt-like spot with exposed-brick vaults and fairy lights – try some of the famous side plates to go with your pick of the array of drinks available.

Chester’s Tiki Island beach bar playing Hip-Hop and R&B with feelgood tropical vibes, serving loaded fries, chicken wings and unique indulgent food!

Kuckoo

Off The Wall

Delicious and stunning-looking drinks that you can not only enjoy, but you can learn how to make with their cocktail masterclasses.

A popular bar with students, turning from a pub in the day to club at night. A great final stop before Rosies!

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Rosies With different genres on each of the three floors, Rosies has music for everyone!

Offering different events throughout the week, students can also benefit from discounts on early entry and drinks.

Prohibition An intimate jazz and blues cocktail bar tucked away in Chester city centre. Step through the secret entrance into the Roaring Twenties of America.

Popcorn Buzzy bar in a historic city – what’s not to love? Defenders of your right to have fun, Popcorn’s bringing the best party to Chester seven days a week.

Palm Chester’s very own Pink Palace! The perfect place for a fun night, with 50% discount on cocktails for students.

Alexander’s

Chester has a buzzing nightlife.

Carlotta Events Management and International Tourism Management

Serving music and comedy since 1991, there’s a range of events, drinks, and food for you to enjoy in the heart of Chester.

UoC Union Bar Or why not stay closer to home with our very own Chester Union Bar, based at Exton Park! You might even see some of your peers working behind the bar!

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Get Ahead 41

What

Happens Next?

You’ve made the first step – you’ve applied for the University of Chester.

If you like what we have to offer, then here’s what you need to do next.

Choose Chester It’s really easy to accept your offer of a place at Chester. Simply log into UCAS Hub and select Chester as your Firm (F) choice.

You’ll also find the deadline for applying and replying to your offers on UCAS Hub. Don’t forget to also reply to each of your other offers. accounts.ucas.com/account/login If you have any queries about the application process, please contact our Admissions team.

If you already hold qualifications that are relevant to your offer, or as part of your offer we have requested that you send proof of your qualifications, please ensure you send a scan or clear photograph of your original certificates/results to admissions@chester.ac.uk as soon as possible. Please note that failure to send proof of your qualifications may hinder your enrolment.

Tel: 01244 511000 Email: admissions@chester.ac.uk

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Applying for Accommodation If you’re thinking of moving away from home, it’s time to start thinking about accommodation. We offer a range of accommodation types, all conveniently located close to our Chester learning sites. We guarantee University or partnership accommodation to all Firm choice applicants who apply by the priority deadline of: 6th May 2026.

We’ll send you an email with all the information you need and key dates for making your application – don’t worry, we’ll give you plenty of notice.

Find out more at: chester.ac.uk/accommodation

Applying for Student Funding There are a range of financial support packages available to help you along on your university journey, including student finance, bursaries and scholarships. It’s best to apply as soon as possible to ensure everything is in place for the start of term. For full details of your next steps and eligibility, visit: chester.ac.uk/finance 43

Applicant Days Applicant Days are an opportunity for Offer Holders to experience Chester firsthand!

Our events are designed to help you decide whether the University of Chester is right for you; explore the campus, discover more about your course of interest, take a studentled tour to get the inside scoop on student life and view the facilities, speak to our student support teams to get your questions answered, and take a look at our range of accommodation options to find your perfect home.

We’re holding events for Offer Holders on the following 2026 dates: • Saturday 24th January • Wednesday 18th February • Saturday 21st March • Saturday 25th April Discover how we can help contribute to your travel expenses and book your place: chester.ac.uk/applicant-days

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Here’s what the students who attended our last Applicant Days thought about the events:

“All of the Student Ambassadors that I spoke to were extremely polite and helpful, and answered any questions that I had. They are part of the reason why I chose Chester as my Firm choice.”

“The subject session presentation was engaging, informative and full of inspiring content, whilst still leaving room for plenty of questions, which were answered helpfully.”

“The event was great – all the staff and students were kind and approachable. It has definitely put me at ease knowing that Chester is where I’ll be living and studying.”

Here’s a preview of what an Applicant Day at Chester looks like: 45

Stay in the Loop If you choose Chester as your Firm or Insurance choice, we’ll be in regular contact with all the advice and guidance you need, as well as important deadlines and things to look forward to.

In the meantime, feel free to get in touch if you’re unsure about anything.

Tel: 01244 511000 / Email: enquiries@chester.ac.uk

Connect with Current Students

Get Your Loved Ones Involved

Don’t forget to ask our students about anything that comes to mind via the Unibuddy app or by visiting: chester.ac.uk/ask

Sign your parents or supporters up to receive updates from us. We’ll keep them informed with key dates, important information and other ways that they can support you in your university journey.

We’ll also be posting student and staff blogs throughout the year at:

Scan the QR and sign your supporters up!

chester.ac.uk/blog

Student Shout Out is our channel for student updates and news – follow @uocshoutout for a taste of what our students are getting up to.

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Join our Online Offer Holder Community Look out for your exclusive email invitation to join our online Offer Holder community on Unibuddy.

It’s a great way to connect with fellow offer holders and meet other new students from your course, accommodation or a shared hobby before starting at Chester.

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in the North West for

University of the Year

Across social media @uochester The information provided in this guide is provided for your information and convenience only. Any reference made to any person, organisation, activities, products or services does not constitute or imply an endorsement, or recommendation by the University of Chester. All information has been included in good faith and is believed to be correct at the time of publishing.