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Published: 27 May 2025

Five reasons to study at the University of Surrey

Deciding which university to go to is a massive step, and you want to pick a place that feels right for you. At the University of Surrey, we believe we offer an experience that helps you thrive, learn and launch into an amazing future.

We’re consistently ranked highly for our courses, student satisfaction, graduate career prospects and teaching. Here are five reasons to choose Surrey for your undergraduate studies. 

Placement was the best way to get valuable work experience and cement my theoretical experiences at university. I feel well-equipped to join the engineering workforce post-graduation as a result of my placement.

Hayley, Electronic Engineering BEng (Hons)

1. Future-proof your career from day one 

At Surrey, your degree isn't just about studying and lectures; it's about building your career. Employability is at the heart of what we offer so you graduate ready for your chosen career.  

Our stats speak for themselves: 95% of our undergraduates are in employment or further study 15 months after leaving Surrey; of these 88% have secured graduate-level roles (Graduate Outcomes 2024, HESA). 

You’ll benefit from the guidance of our award-winning careers team who will help you find your chosen career path.

We were pioneers in integrating professional placements in our courses and we have links with over 2,000 employers. Our industry-leading Professional Training placements give you real-world experience to make you stand out in the job market. Plus, our strong links with businesses mean our courses are designed to give you the skills that are highly sought after by employers.

You can also enhance your time at Surrey by working and/or studying abroad. Perhaps you would like to volunteer in India or learn about Brazilian business and culture in São Paulo during your summer holidays? With 140+ opportunities in 36+ different countries worldwide, there is something for everyone. Explore your options via our search tool and find out more about our current partner universities and organisations.

2. Our rankings

We’re a high-ranking university and we regularly come top 10 in the UK’s league tables for: 

  • Criminology
  • Drama, dance and cinematics
  • English  
  • Hospitality, travel and tourism
  • Information technology and systems
  • Languages and linguistics
  • Manufacturing and production engineering
  • Music
  • Nursing
  • Nutrition and food science
  • Paramedic science
  • Sociology
  • Sport science. 

We are also one of only three UK universities which is in both the top 20 of the latest Research Excellence Framework (2022), which measures excellence in research, and the National Student Survey (NSS), which measures student satisfaction. So, if you’re looking for a university which excels at research and teaching and student experience, Surrey is the place! 

What I enjoy most about Surrey is the exceptional facilities that enhance both learning and clinical practice. The state-of-the-art simulation suites allowed me to practise and refine my skills in a realistic, supportive environment. Having access to such advanced facilities is one of the things that made my experience at Surrey so rewarding.

Sophie, Midwifery BSc

3. Innovative learning that sparks your curiosity 

Forget boring lectures! At Surrey, you'll experience expert teaching that brings your subjects to life. Whether it's through hands-on projects, engaging discussions or access to incredible facilities, our academics are passionate about their fields and dedicated to helping you discover yours. You'll learn to think critically, solve problems, and innovate – skills essential for any career path. 

Surrey is home to world-leading research that tackles global challenges, from healthcare breakthroughs to sustainable technologies. This means you'll be learning from academics at the forefront of their fields.  

200_Sunset-over-the-Duke-of-Kent-Building-looking-across-lake-highlight.jpg

4. A beautiful campus with everything you need 

At Surrey you get the best of both worlds: a campus in the heart of Guildford, with shops and a train station close by, surrounded by the Surrey Hills, an area of outstanding natural beauty. 

Our stunning parkland campus is a fantastic place to live and learn. You’ll have everything you need within easy reach, including modern study spaces, diverse food options and green spaces to relax. If it’s sport you’re passionate about, Surrey Sports Park is our state-of-the-art health and fitness facility and the home of Team Surrey, the heart of sport and physical activity at Surrey. 

With 24/7 security, it's a safe environment that will be your home away from home, with the added bonus of being a 34-minute train ride from London.

5. A friendly, supportive and vibrant community

a group of students taking a selfie on campus

Starting university is a big adventure, and you won't do it alone here. At Surrey we’re known for our welcoming and supportive community. From your flatmates to your lecturers and the huge range of clubs and societies, you'll quickly find your people. There's always something happening on campus, ensuring a lively social scene and plenty of opportunities to make lifelong friends and connections.

 

Book your place at one of our Open Days to discover Surrey for yourself!

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