University of York (reviews)

Studying Business and Management at the University of York has been an incredible learning experience. The course offers a strong balance between theory and practical application, with modules such as Business Accounting, Marketing Principles & Practices, Business Planning and Sustainable Entrepreneurship, and Management Information Systems.

The University curriculum was such that, we applied all the theories into real-life businesses and figuring out solutions for them. One of the strengths of the programme is how interactive and applied the teaching is. Many modules use real case studies, group projects, and presentations, which has helped me build confidence and develop skills that translate directly into the workplace which I was able to apply in my placement year. Particularly, the modules where our seminar work was centred around specific businesses, I was able to transfer my previous understanding into my communications projects here at SMBC. The lecturers are supportive and approachable, and the department provides plenty of opportunities to engage with industry insights and career development.

The campus environment is also a major highlight. York has a strong sense of community, and there are endless opportunities to get involved, academically and socially. I’ve particularly enjoyed being part of the performing arts and dance community, where I joined the competition team for two years. This particularly made my university experience feel well-rounded and fulfilling as I had a community that I was committed to throughout my time there.

I am looking forward to my final year at the University due to the supportive environment I was able to receive through my time there and truly all the staff are willing to help with a variety of different needs and worries no matter how big or small.

Coming to the University of York, I didn’t exactly know what to expect. It was my first choice university, however I hadn’t put much thought into the actual city: I was simply really excited for my course (English and Related Literature).

Firstly, York is an ‘on-campus’ uni, something which put lots of my home friends off from applying. I was initially concerned about this, but I have found it immensely preferable. I was placed in the furthest accommodation from town, but looking back, I wouldn’t have had it any other way. It is collegiate, something which is emphasised from the very first day- students are actively assigned to be ‘mentors’ of flats and it doesn’t feel forced or awkward at all as they were in the same shoes 12 months ago. I ended up doing the same and had a blast. I joined the college netball team, a sport I’ve always loved doing, and am now on the committee. There is hockey, volleyball, football and more at college level – something below university level, which is open to all skill levels (netball has 4 teams, and lots of girls had never played before uni). I met my bestest friends in my flat and in netball. Plus, although I was in the furthest college from town, there was always something to do. It really its own little town in itself, and actual town is very walkable and there is a constant bus going back and forth (even after a night out).

Secondly, I think York is a really balanced life. Although I do enjoy going out, I don’t like drinking as much as most of my home friends, and I was anxious that this would disadvantage me socially at university. But, there is SUCH a wide range of activities, people, events and so much more. York just feels more relaxed: there are definitely people who go out 24/7 and have a great time, but there are also people who never do and still have an amazing experience. There’s also the in-between, like me, and I couldn’t be more pleased.

Thirdly, I know the teaching for my course (English) is exceptional, as I have experienced it myself. We constantly have events we can go to, speakers, and our tutors themselves are ridiculously impressive. There is however a slight lack of structure- it’s very ‘you’re on your own,’ especially at first. I remember being told that I ‘just have to get it wrong’ to learn in first year- and after structured A-Level revision, that freaked me out. I also know my friends on other courses, particularly Economics and Accounting and Finance, have had issues with exam times and unclear teaching. However, the University tend to respond adequately. I would say overall the teaching is you receive what you give. You do have to work to interact with the tutors and understand what really to do, but they are super helpful. I have found the workload to be adequate, and it is easy to apply for an extension should you need. This however differs from course to course. I know Psychology in particular sounds very stressful, with lots of work, long lectures, and intense memorisation required.

One thing I did not expect may not be as important to some people, but as a romantic English student, the architecture is really disappointing. It is ‘brutalist…’ I do not know who’s idea that was, either. The actual city of York is stunning – although frustratingly busy during holiday seasons – and the campus simply doesn’t match up. Whilst East is more modern than West, neither of them have much of the ‘York’ charm I was hoping for. Heslington Hall is basically it. There is loads of wildlife though, something I adore. The baby bunnies always warrant a smile, and a gaggle of students stood around with their phones out, pointing.

If you’re coming to York, all I can say is the typical ‘get involved,’ but I can’t emphasise how important it is. Go to that thing which might seem ‘cringy’ – you might meet a lifelong friend. Everyone’s in the same new, awkward, unfamiliar boat and they just want to socialise too. Plus, you can join things year-round – there are so many societies people are constantly floating in and out of, and their range is super wide. Think DogSoc (with dogs who visit every week), Gaming, Politics (controversial, I know), endless Sports, Cocktail society, religious societies, fashion events, and so much more.

Throw yourself in. Say hi to somebody. Compliment that person you think has a cool outfit. It will go quicker than you know it, and you’ll end up loving it more than you might think.

The computer lab on campus is exceptional, especially with its wide variety of updated software and the impressive VR setup available for students. I also really appreciate the school’s Virtual Learning Environment (VLE), which makes it incredibly easy to catch up on past lectures and review study materials at my own pace. The academic infrastructure here genuinely supports hands-on learning and flexible studying. While no campus is entirely perfect, these top-tier resources make me highly recommend this university to prospective students.

I am currently a first year Psychology student at the University of York. So far, I have had an amazing experience and have settled into the university life so well. From my first day moving into my flat on campus, I have felt so welcomed and part of the community, particularly due to the STYCs and STYMs who made the move so much easier! The psychology course has been very interesting and has allowed us to gain a broad insight into the many avenues of this subject including ‘Brain and Behaviour’ and ‘Learning and Development’. All of our lecturers have been leaders in their field of research which makes our teaching current, engaging and very insightful. The workload can sometimes get overwhelming but there are so many support options available to you like your academic supervisor or university wide services, which has been very reassuring to know about. I have also been able to create strong friendships through the many societies on offer. Overall, I would recommend the University of York to any student!