Join our community
The warm and welcoming atmosphere you’ll find on campus is one of the things that truly sets us apart.
Whether you're coming straight from school or returning to education, we're here to make sure you get the right support and information to help you succeed.
Before you arrive
We'll be sending you information to help you prepare for the start of your course, in our handy Course Essentials. You'll receive this by email over the summer and it'll give you a head start before you join us.
If you'd like to get an insight into what studying at uni is going to be like, you can connect with current students, known as peer mentors, who'll be happy to chat to you about academic study.
I had a really great mentor. Before I arrived at university, she gave me advice on how to access resources and get the best out of uni. She gave me a lot of support throughout the year. If it weren't for her I would have struggled. She really inspired me to give something back to others, so I became a peer mentor too.
AdewumiPeer Mentor
University study
Studying at university is likely to be different to studying at school and college. If you've been out of education for a while, you might also feel uncertain about what to expect. But we're here to make this transition as smooth as possible for you, with loads of support and advice. Current student Lynda shares her experience of going into university straight from school. Watch now:
When you join us
When you arrive and throughout your time with us, whether you're an undergraduate or postgraduate student, you'll be able to access a range of study support including:
Studying with a disability
We have a lot of experience of study support for students with disabilities. If you're studying with a disability, we can offer extra support including:
- dyslexia tutors
- a learning support plan that can be tailored to your personal needs
- special arrangements for exams and assignments.
Academic English for speakers of other languages
If English isn't your first language, our Student Learning Development team offer workshops on how to improve your presentation and referencing, critical thinking and writing skills.They can also provide guidance on the use of academic English and grammar through one-to-one sessions.
You can also join free English Language classes taught by students studying English Language teaching qualifications.
Libraries
Our libraries on each campus will soon become your favourite study place with everything you need: computers, laptops, books, journals and online resources. Plus, our Subject Librarians can help you find your way around, search databases, and use online resources, so you have all you need to succeed in your assignments.
24/7 library opening hours
At busy assessment time, we make sure you're able to access study resources by extending our Canterbury library opening times to 24/7. Just so you know it's there when you might need it.
Free IT software and support
We've loads of study spaces that are equipped with the latest technology. We have dedicated computer rooms and Mac suites available so you can always find somewhere to study on campus.
You'll also have access to all of the software you need for your course. You can download free software including Office 365 Pro Plus and anti-virus software, saving you money and giving you some peace of mind!
Whether you’re new to Microsoft Office or a seasoned pro wanting to gain a certificate, the IT team can help. You’ll also have the opportunity to develop your IT skills while you work towards your degree.
Personal Academic Tutors
You'll benefit from a Personal Academic Tutor to guide you through your studies and help you reach your academic goals.
Student learning development and research support
For an extra bit of support with finding information for your assignments, developing research skills, referencing, academic writing or preparing presentations as well as advice on how to manage your time and juggle your University workload, you'll be able to speak to your Learning Developers and Learning and Research Librarians who are here to help you succeed.
Peer mentors
You can chat to a student about how to prepare for assessments, manage your time, understand feedback and develop your critical thinking plus much, much more.
Postgraduate study support
If you're a postgraduate student, you'll be joining a supportive and thriving academic community.
Our Graduate College provides a supportive academic environment for all our postgraduate students and encourages cross-disciplinary discussion.
A newly refurbished study space on our Canterbury Campus is available exclusively for postgraduate students, complete with full IT facilities and social space.