Overview
The University of Birmingham is located in Birmingham, the second largest city in England with a population of just over 1 million. Birmingham lies approximately 120 miles northwest of London and is considered Europe's youngest city with 40% of its population under the age of 25. Since 1900, the University of Birmingham has been a leading global university. Today, Birmingham has one of the largest international student communities in the UK with students from more than 150 countries worldwide. A rail station on campus offers students quick access to the city center. Birmingham is a center for arts and culture, commerce and entertainment with a vibrant and diverse community. Minimum GPA required by host program: 2.8 GPA.
Academics
Find Birmingham classes: (Classes are called "Modules")
WU students take regular University of Birmingham courses and this program is recommended for most majors. Students going to Birmingham take 60 credits per semester. Students will be placed into one specific school based on their major field of study where the majority of courses will be taken. Students can also choose up to two additional preferred schools where they can take a variety of other subjects. You can find available classes (modules) on the What Can I Study? page.
Housing
Students are guaranteed housing in one of the many "villages" across campus. Students live in self-catered university housing in shared or single rooms. Students can also choose from rooms with or without private bathroom and kitchen facilities. An optional, flexible meal plan is available to eat at cafes on campus.
Dates
The University of Birmingham program is available in either the fall or spring semester. Fall semester starts late September and ends mid-December; spring semester starts mid-January and ends mid-June
Cost
Please see the Willamette Sponsored Programs Cost Matrix for detailed explanation of the cost of each program. More detailed information about accommodation costs can be found on the University Accommodation Office website. Further information about expected living costs at Birmingham can be found on the bottom of the Birmingham website.
Pre-departure Resources
- University of Birmingham Website
- University of Birmingham International Office - resources for exchange students
- Course information at University of Birmingham (look for "modules")
- Application process - (do not complete the application until advised by the OIE)
- Estimated living costs (tuition information does not apply to exchange students)
- Accommodation information
- Local Weather
- Embassy of the United Kingdom: historical and government information
- CIA World Factbook
- Lonely Planet Guide
- Discover the city of Birmingham