Birmingham Newman University

Birmingham Newman University, founded in 1968, is a community-focused institution located in Bartley Green, Birmingham. It offers students the opportunity to study in a supportive environment, which combines high academic standards with a commitment to social justice and personal development. The university provides a diverse range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses designed to foster both intellectual growth and practical skills. The university has a solid reputation for its teaching excellence, particularly in the fields of education, psychology, theology, and business. Alongside specialist lecturers and tutors, the university has an extensive support network for other academic and personal needs. Birmingham Newman is known for its strong sense of community, which is supported by its student-centred approach and friendly campus atmosphere. The diverse student body, including mature and international students, helps to ensure that welcoming atmosphere. While it provides a peaceful setting on the outskirts of the city, students also benefit from being close to the vibrant cultural and social scene of Birmingham, one of the UK’s largest cities.

Why study at Birmingham Newman University?

Holistic Education: At Birmingham Newman, we focus on developing the whole person, placing equal emphasis on personal wellbeing and academic success. You'll grow not only as a student but as an individual.

Strong Support System: We offer a wide range of student support services and personalised guidance, helping you achieve your full potential academically and personally through interactive teaching and a nurturing community.

Community and Belonging: Birmingham Newman combines a traditional ethos with a modern approach, offering a unique sense of belonging where you’ll feel valued, supported, and encouraged to thrive in both your studies and personal development.

Postgraduate

Birmingham Newman University offers a range of postgraduate programmes designed to prepare students for successful careers or further academic research. Many of these courses can be taken on a full-time, part-time, or distance learning basis, offering flexibility for students who may be balancing work or other commitments alongside their studies. The university’s postgraduate courses are highly regarded for their practical focus and their alignment with industry needs. Students benefit from small class sizes, personalised academic support, and close working relationships with experienced lecturers.

Birmingham Newman University has been shortlisted in six categories at the 2025 Whatuni Student Choice Awards (WUSCA).

The categories are:

• University of the Year
• Lecturers and Teaching Quality
• Facilities
• Students’ Union
• Career Prospects
• Student Support

The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025 has also positioned Birmingham Newman University for the following accolades:

• 5th in the UK for teaching quality
• 5th in the UK for student satisfaction
• 7th out of 11 providers in the West Midlands region (up from 11th in the previous year)
• 5th in the UK for Social Inclusion

Courses 

Birmingham Newman University offers a variety of postgraduate courses, including master’s degrees in nursing, education, psychology, theology, business and computer science. There are also advanced and postgraduate diploma options, as well as postgraduate certificates. The courses are designed to provide a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for whatever their chosen next steps may be – not only will they be ready to succeed, but they will be in an advantageous position when applying for future roles.

Lecturers at Birmingham Newman are experienced professionals, many of whom have direct industry experience in their fields. This means that students not only gain academic knowledge but also insights into real-world practices, learning from specialists who have a genuine passion for their respective fields. Lecturers are approachable and dedicated to student success, so that students are guided throughout their qualification – aided by the small student-to-staff ratios in every subject, ensuring a personalised approach to each student’s learning.

Student life at Birmingham Newman University

Birmingham Newman University provides postgraduate students with a comprehensive support system, promoting both academic and personal development. The Careers and Employability Service delivers personalised support to students and graduates, helping them achieve career goals through guidance, resources, workshops, career pathways, and coaching. The service collaborates with academic departments and extends support for three years after graduation. The Students' Union enhances the student experience by offering extracurricular activities, societies, and career development programmes.

Financial aid is available through the Newman Support Fund for students facing hardship, covering living costs and study-related expenses. Additional support includes digital supermarket vouchers, free meals, and access to a community pantry. The Chaplaincy provides spiritual support for students of all faiths and backgrounds, while a range of wellbeing services, including mental health support and counselling, are also available.

Birmingham Newman encourages participation in extracurricular activities, offering opportunities to develop leadership skills, form personal connections, and contribute to campus life. These initiatives help foster a vibrant and inclusive university culture.

Overall, Birmingham Newman University delivers a balanced and enriching postgraduate experience, combining personalised academic support, career readiness, and wellbeing initiatives. This nurturing environment prepares students to succeed academically and professionally, making it an excellent choice for those seeking to advance their education and career.

Funding 

Birmingham Newman University offers postgraduate loans up to £11,836 for full master's degrees, with 10% fee discounts for eligible alumni and partner school staff. PGCE trainees in subjects like maths, physics, and computing may receive tax-free bursaries up to £24,000 or scholarships up to £26,000.

Postgraduate Finance Information

PGCEs & School Direct Finance Information

Book & Plan Your Open Day

Thinking of joining Birmingham Newman University in 2025 and beyond? Come along to one of our Open Days. This is a great opportunity to:

• Take a campus tour
• View our accommodation
• Meet our academic team
• Chat to existing students
• Talk to our support teams

Bring your friends and family –  there’s free car parking.

All 2025 Open Days

• 14th May 2025 (Wednesday)
  Postgraduate Open Evening (4pm to 7pm)
• 21st June 2025 (Saturday)
  Open Day (10am to 3pm)
• 16th August 2025 (Saturday)
  Open Day (10am to 3pm)

We host a wide range of events both in-person and online—covering general topics as well as subject-specific sessions. You're warmly invited to join us! Explore our programmes, attend insightful webinars, book a campus visit, or even have a one-to-one chat with our team.

Find out more and book your place