City of Bristol College ranks in the top 10 per cent of colleges in the UK for quality, achievements and student experience. The College is one of the largest in the UK with over 30,000 students (7,000 full-time) and over 2,000 members of staff. With around 400 international students, it is a popular choice with students from many different countries around the world.
Bristol is situated in south-west England and has a population of 500,000. It is the sixth largest city in England and is only 90 minutes from London by train.
Academic strengths
There is a wide range of courses available, giving you the opportunity to choose the right course for you – whether you want to study English Language, select a path to university or to take a work-related course.
At the College you can study English Language at all levels, from beginners to advanced. The English Language Department is accredited by the British Council and is a member of English UK. The main course start dates are in September, February and April.
A-levels are a popular path to university with younger international students. The College is one of the largest and most successful A-level centres in the area and is able to offer a wide range of support services to students. The centre is a lively and exciting place to study, right in the heart of the city centre.
Another route to university is the Foundation Degree, where you study for two years with City of Bristol College and then automatically progress on to university straight into the third year. The College has partnerships with several leading universities in the UK. Popular subjects include Business, Computing, Hospitality & Tourism and Engineering (including Aeronautical Engineering).
The College also offers practical, work-related courses, known as vocational courses. They provide 'on the job knowledge' and allow you to gain valuable experience in the field you wish to work in, including Business, Art and Design, Catering, Computing and Engineering.
The College has been awarded Centre of Vocational Excellence for Hospitality, Supervisory Management and Aeronautical Engineering.
Facilities
The College has world-class facilities and has just invested a further £50 million in these including a £25 million refurbishment programme at the main campus. The college offers state-of-the art technology in modern and comfortable surroundings.
There is an accommodation service and international students can choose from host family, hall of residence or private rented accommodation. The new hall of residence is self-catering and has a great location a few minutes walk from the campus and city centre.
With many years experience in looking after international students, the College offers excellent care and support for those learning and living abroad. The International Office supports international students from enquiry to graduation and works closely with the Welfare Team which offers you help with all visa and immigration issues.
Student life
You'll find the College and the city of Bristol very open in their outlook and attitudes to international students. At College, there are many activities and events to take part in, from sports and dance clubs to community and social activities.
Bristol is an exciting city to be in with a great mix of the old and the new. It has many museums, historical buildings, cinemas, restaurants, bars and nightclubs. There is a large student population with two universities, so there is plenty to do. There are many companies in and around Bristol, offering you excellent opportunities for part-time work.