Bournemouth University

To Learn is to Change

Featured Programs

Why study BSc (Hons) Data Science and Artificial Intelligence at BU?

  • Develop the versatility and personal qualities to select, use and combine a variety of machine learning tools, technologies and methods to meet the dynamic data analytical demands in a global context
  • Build and improve your applied technical skills to implement, apply and optimise machine learning algorithms such as deep learning and neural networks, as well as developing real-world industry-inspired data applications for any organisation
  • Engage in a series of practical industry-focused tasks and co-participate in a range of research projects, not only with BU staff but experts from other institutions and industries in the UK and beyond
  • Study and practise in our state-of-art speciality labs with enterprise-grade hardware and fully virtualisation-ready enterprise-level infrastructure
  • Gain valuable work experience on your placement if you choose to take one, entering an industry with huge predicted growth in the next decade
  • You'll be qualified to work as a Data Science professional in all sectors where data analytics plays a critical role.

Why study BA (Hons) Computer Animation & Visual Effects?

  • Study a degree that will give you the expertise, skills and portfolio to excel in the visual effects, computer animation, and computer games industries
  • We consulted with our friends in the industry to ensure this degree replicates the latest industry practices to match the professional tech and facilities you’ll be taught in. We can’t wait to see you develop the skills to conceptualise, storyboard, and design your original ideas
  • Make invaluable contacts through regular industry guest speakers, many of whom are alumni. You’ll also be invited to one of the UK’s largest visual effects, computer animation, and games festivals – The BFX Festival
  • Tailor your studies with option units in the second and final years to develop your skills in 3D animation, visual effects, and technical arts – or work across specialisms reflecting a range of industry practices
  • Work on projects that simulate real-world challenges and scenarios; you'll benefit from supportive tutors who provide tailored and personal reviews of your work
  • Access specialist facilities including a green screen and motion capture studio, as well as animation labs equipped with industry-standard software. Explore these in our 360 tours.

Why study BA (Hons) Multimedia Journalism at BU?

  • This practice led course will give you the skills for a fast-paced career in journalism. You'll have access to brand new newsrooms and state-of-the-art TV, radio and podcast studios where you'll produce news broadcasts, film TV news packages and interview guests live
  • Take part in authentic news day activities in the community reporting from your very own patch and publish news and features on the student run BUzz website, Nerve magazine and campus radio station
  • Learn from experienced professionals and successful alumni. Previous speakers include Jon Snow (Channel 4), Jake Wallis Simons (Daily Mail Online), and Stephen Sackur (BBC HARDTalk)
  • Graduate with a degree accredited by three industry-recognised bodies – the National Council for Training of Journalists (NCTJ), the Broadcast Journalism Training Council (BJTC) and the Professional Publisher’s Association (PPA) - and complete professional qualifications alongside your studies
  • Make invaluable industry connections during a 30-week work placement with organisations such as national and regional media, the BCC and Sky Sports
  • 90% of our graduates are employed or in further study within 15 months after finishing their studies.

Why study BSc (Hons) Forensic Science?

  • Taught by professional practitioners and guest speakers who are experts in their respective fields, including forensic DNA profiling, crime scene investigation and forensic toxicology
  • You will be taught in contemporary lecture halls and state-of-the-art labs where you’ll use cutting-edge equipment
  • Take part in invaluable lab and fieldwork experience, including mock crime scenes and a live-fire exercise
  • Provided with theoretical and practical training covering crime scene science, toxicology, chemistry and molecular biology
  • Gain valuable work experience on your placement if you choose to take one and springboard into a career as a forensic investigator post-graduation

Why study BSc (Hons) Psychology at BU?

  • Participate in practicals, interactive assessments, coursework, placements and research using state-of-the-art facilities
  • Learn through mentorship from staff and benefit from talks by nationally and internationally renowned speakers from a variety of fields and disciplines
  • Benefit from our collaborations with the mental health sector, the criminal justice system, the educational system, industrial partners and local communities/charitable trusts
  • Develop transferable skills including critical thinking, project management, presentation skills and professional practice
  • Study diverse topics that will prepare you for a range of careers, whether in psychology (such as in mental health or forensic settings) or outside (such as in HR, the police, marketing or management)
  • Opportunity to take an optional 4-week or 30-week placement in industry to give you essential real-world experience and begin building a network of professional contacts

Why study Sport Management at BU?

  • Blending academic and practical elements, this course will support you to become a critically informed and well-rounded graduate, ready to manage, influence and lead in the world of work
  • Develop a detailed understanding of sport, management, marketing, leadership, finance and business principles, with an appreciation of their complex global social contexts
  • Gain varied practical experience from course placement options providing you with fantastic opportunities to put your learning into practice and make professional connections
  • We have developed an international reputation in the management of sport, events and physical activity, and continue to shape sport research, policy and practice
  • Our range of collaborative projects with local and international partners, provide opportunities for you to engage in educational, research and work activities with our global partner institutions across the world

Overview

Located on the stunning south coast of England, Bournemouth University (BU) offers a vibrant, career-focused education in one of the UK’s most beautiful seaside towns. With a strong emphasis on employability, BU integrates real-world experience into every degree, including industry placements, live projects, and global internships.

American students are drawn to BU’s inclusive campus culture, international outlook, and technology-enhanced and practice-led learning. Whether you're pursuing business, media, sciences, health, or technology, BU’s programs are designed to prepare you for global careers. The university is ranked among the top 100 young universities worldwide and is recognized for its excellence in research, sustainability, and student support.

BU’s American students benefit from a welcoming international community, access to scholarships, and opportunities to study abroad or engage in research with global impact. Plus, Bournemouth’s location offers the best of both worlds—easy access to London and a relaxed coastal lifestyle.

Join a university that values creativity, collaboration, and ambition. At BU, you’ll gain more than a degree—you’ll build a future.

Study and Compete at BU

If you're a talented athlete with a competitive mindset, BU’s Performance Sport programme offers the opportunity to compete at an elite level while earning your degree. As a member of TeamBU, you’ll represent the university in the British Universities and Colleges Sport (BUCS) leagues, where BU consistently ranks among the top 25 universities in the UK.

BU supports 22 competitive team sports, including American Football, Beach and Indoor Volleyball, Golf, Swimming, Tennis, Basketball, Rugby, Badminton, and more. You’ll become part of a close-knit community of nearly 1,500 student-athletes, with opportunities to compete at local, national, and international levels.

Bournemouth is also home to Select Generation FC, a well-established American soccer agency and football club that provides young U.S. players with opportunities to develop, compete, and progress toward a university degree. Based at Bournemouth University’s state-of-the-art sports complex, Chapel Gate, players benefit from a unique pathway that combines full-time football training with the chance to pursue academic studies at the University.

University Stats

Total Enrolment:
18,000
Undergraduate numbers:
16,000
Male/Female split:
50/50
Location:
Bournemouth, UK
International student numbers:
3,000
Notable alumni:
Olivia Ford - (Marketing) - Joined Google's renowned Associate Product Marketing Manager program & now responsible for omnichannel shopper experience for the Google Pixel & Google Home in EMEA

Entry Requirements

You can apply to study for a Bachelor’s degree from year one if you hold a High School Graduation Diploma with a minimum GPA of 3.0 out of 4.0, plus at least one of the following:

SAT tests are accepted only on courses which does not list required or relevant subjects. Minimum combined score varies between 1200 and 1300, according to the course applied for

ACT tests are accepted only on courses which does not list required or relevant subjects. Minimum combined score varies between 24 and 26, according to the course applied for

Advanced Placement tests - AP tests are required on courses which list required or relevant subjects. You will need 2 or 3 tests and the required score per subject will range between 3 and 5, depending on the course applied for.

Additional tests such as SAT or ACT will support your application. If you apply for a course which requires AP tests but are unable to take the tests, please contact the International Admissions Team on iat@bournemouth.ac.uk to discuss your options.

Some courses will require an art portfolio and/or interview.

Find full details and US-focused information click here

Contact Bournemouth University

You can contact the university directly or add it to your shortlist to contact multiple universities at once. Our US admissions reps are ready to talk to you.

Quick Facts

Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2025: BU is placed within the 401–500 bracket globally
Complete University Guide 2025: BU has risen to 55th position among UK universities, marking a significant improvement from previous years
Hospitality and Tourism Management: BU secured 5th place globally in the 2024 Shanghai Ranking’s Global Ranking of Academic Subjects, underscoring its commitment to excellence in this field
Communication & Media Studies: Ranked 23rd out of 91 institutions in the UK, reflecting BU's strong performance in this discipline
THE Impact Rankings 2024: BU achieved a joint 39th position globally out of 1,963 universities, reflecting its dedication to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs)