Six Intakes a Year: Coventry University Increases Flexibility for Students

Coventry University is transforming the traditional academic calendar with an innovative approach to higher education that allows students to begin their studies at 6 different points throughout the year. This advanced model breaks from the conventional term and semester system, putting students' needs at the centre of the university experience.

From September 2025, taught postgraduate courses transitioned to 6 start dates per year. This forward-thinking approach means students no longer need to wait for the traditional September or January start dates, but can begin their academic journey at a time that best suits their personal circumstances.

This carousel structure also means that if a student needs to take a break from studies due to personal circumstances, they can rejoin at the next available point without losing an entire academic year. The university has already piloted block teaching at CU Coventry, CU Scarborough, and CU London, which has informed the university-wide rollout. It is believed that this approach helps more students progress and complete their courses, as well as increases student satisfaction.

Vice-Chancellor Professor John Latham said:

 “These changes are all about giving added flexibility to students who want to benefit from the qualifications Coventry University Group is able help them achieve. While our CU locations have long offered six-week teaching blocks, we are now rolling out this model across all of our campuses, having seen how popular and effective this approach has proved.

“Our key focus is preparing our students for a fulfilling and productive career in their chosen field and we believe these changes help us to do that, while offering a huge degree of flexibility for those exploring the incredible life-transforming opportunities higher education can offer.”

Flexible start postgraduate courses