Birkbeck University of London
London, United Kingdom
- Cost of Living£ 26,592
- Tuition Fee From£ 13,650
- Country Rank#62
- Batch Strength8,406
- Global Diversity9.5%
- Gender Ratio55 : 45
Overview
About
Birkbeck University of London is a public research institution located in the Bloomsbury neighbourhood of London, UK. It was established in 1823 as the London Mechanics' Institute and became Birkbeck College at the University of London in 1920. The university is famous for its unique teaching structure, which allows students to study part-time in the evenings while working during the day.
Birkbeck has a rich history of providing education to working-class individuals and has been instrumental in promoting lifelong learning and adult education. Over the years, it has expanded its offerings and now has a diverse range of programs, including humanities, science, and social sciences, as well as professional and vocational courses. The university has a strong reputation for its research in a number of fields, including law, economics, science, and psychology.
Moreover, one of the most notable features of Birkbeck is its commitment to creating opportunities for individuals who may not have had the chance to pursue higher education. The university has a long history of providing education to people from underrepresented communities and has been recognized for its efforts to promote social mobility.
Birkbeck University of London’s courses are quite diverse. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in a variety of disciplines. Some of the fields of study available at the university include:
- Arts and Humanities: Courses in this field include English, History, Film Studies, and Philosophy.
- Social Sciences: Courses in this field include Economics, Law, Politics, and Sociology.
- Science and Technology: Courses in this field include Computer Science, Mathematics, Psychology, and Environmental Science.
- Business and Management: Courses in this field include Accounting, Finance, Marketing, and Management.
- Health and Life Sciences: Courses in this field include Nursing, Midwifery, and Public Health.
- Education: Courses in this field include Education, Early Childhood Studies, and Teaching English as a Foreign Language.
All of these programmes at Birkbeck University of London are offered on a part-time basis, allowing students to study while they work. The university also offers a range of short courses, evening classes, and summer schools.
Ranking
Birkbeck, University of London, renowned for its academic excellence and diverse campus community, continues to maintain its status as a world-class institution for international students. In the QS World University Rankings for 2025, Birkbeck secured the 408th position globally, affirming its standing among leading academic institutions worldwide. The university's global recognition is further evidenced by its 923rd place in the US News & World Report Global Universities Rankings for 2024, highlighting its impact in academic achievement and research on an international scale. Additionally, Birkbeck demonstrated consistency in the Times Higher Education (THE) Rankings, maintaining the 351st position globally in both 2022 and 2023. This impressive track record across various ranking systems underscores Birkbeck's commitment to providing high-quality education across a wide range of disciplines, making it an attractive choice for students seeking a globally recognised academic experience.
Birkbeck, University of London - QS Ranking 2025
In the QS World University Rankings for 2025, Birkbeck, University of London has been ranked 408th globally, continuing its presence among the world's leading academic institutions. This position reflects Birkbeck's commitment to academic excellence and its significant role within the global higher education community.
|
Ranked by |
2023 |
2024 |
2025 |
|
Europe |
- |
238 |
- |
|
World University |
343 |
374 |
408 |
Birkbeck, University of London - US News & World Report Ranking
In the US News & World Report Global Universities Rankings for 2024, Birkbeck, University of London was ranked 923rd globally, indicating its presence among institutions recognised for academic achievement and research impact on a global scale.
|
Ranked by |
2022 |
2023 |
2024 |
|
Global Universities |
886 |
912 |
923 |
Learn More About: Birkbeck University of London Admissions
Birkbeck, University of London - THE (Times Higher Education) Ranking
In the Times Higher Education) Rankings for both 2022 and 2023, Birkbeck, University of London was ranked 351st globally among universities. This consistent ranking underscores Birkbeck's reputation for academic excellence and research impact across various disciplines.
|
Ranked by |
2022 |
2023 |
|
University |
351 |
351 |
Birkbeck, University of London - QS Ranking 2025
|
Ranked by |
2023 |
2024 |
2025 |
|
Communication and Media Studies |
151 |
151 |
- |
|
Sociology |
251 |
251 |
- |
Birkbeck, University of London - THE (Times Higher Education) Ranking
|
Ranked by |
2022 |
2023 |
|
Arts and Humanities |
87 |
61 |
|
Law |
101 |
126 |
|
Life Sciences |
- |
501 |
|
PG Business and Economics |
251 |
201 |
|
Psychology |
126 |
101 |
Course Ranking
LL.M.
|
Ranked by |
2022 |
2023 |
|
THE (Times Higher Education) - Law |
101 |
126 |
M.A.
|
Ranked by |
2021 |
2022 |
2023 |
|
QS - Sociology |
- |
251 |
251 |
|
QS - Communication and Media Studies |
- |
151 |
151 |
|
ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) - Political Sciences |
201 |
201 |
301 |
|
THE (Times Higher Education) - Arts and Humanities |
- |
87 |
61 |
MIM
|
Ranked by |
2022 |
2023 |
|
THE (Times Higher Education) - PG Business and Economics |
251 |
201 |
MS
|
Ranked by |
2023 |
|
THE (Times Higher Education) - Life Sciences |
501 |
Others PG
|
Ranked by |
2022 |
2023 |
|
THE (Times Higher Education) - Psychology |
126 |
101 |
Arts ( Fine / Visual / Performing )
|
Ranked by |
2022 |
2023 |
|
THE (Times Higher Education) - Arts and Humanities |
87 |
61 |
Business & Management Studies
|
Ranked by |
2022 |
2023 |
|
THE (Times Higher Education) - PG Business and Economics |
251 |
201 |
Humanities & Social Sciences
|
Ranked by |
2021 |
2022 |
2023 |
|
QS - Sociology |
- |
251 |
251 |
|
ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) - Political Sciences |
201 |
201 |
301 |
|
THE (Times Higher Education) - Psychology |
- |
126 |
101 |
Law
|
Ranked by |
2022 |
2023 |
|
THE (Times Higher Education) - Law |
101 |
126 |
Mass Communication & Media
|
Ranked by |
2022 |
2023 |
2024 |
|
QS - Communication and Media Studies |
151 |
151 |
151 |
Learn More About: Birkbeck University of London Courses
Science
|
Ranked by |
2023 |
|
THE (Times Higher Education) - Life Sciences |
501 |
Biology
|
Ranked by |
2023 |
|
THE (Times Higher Education) - Life Sciences |
501 |
Business Economics
|
Ranked by |
2022 |
2023 |
|
THE (Times Higher Education) - PG Business and Economics |
251 |
201 |
Political Science
|
Ranked by |
2021 |
2022 |
2023 |
|
ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) - Political Sciences |
201 |
201 |
301 |
Psychology
|
Ranked by |
2022 |
2023 |
|
THE (Times Higher Education) - Psychology |
126 |
101 |
Sociology
|
Ranked by |
2022 |
2023 |
2024 |
|
QS - Sociology |
251 |
251 |
251 |
Year
QS Ranks
US News Ranks
2023
#343
-
2022
#332
-
2021
-
-
Facilities
The quality of facilities provided by educational institutions has a major impact on the health, behaviour, involvement, education, and development of students and faculty. It is important to acknowledge that both the physical and mental well-being of those within the institution is heavily influenced by the facilities they have access to. Speaking of which, Birkbeck University of London provides a range of facilities to support its students and staff. Some of the Birkbeck University of London facilities include:
- Library: The university has a central library that provides access to a large collection of books, journals, and other resources, as well as study spaces and computer facilities.
- Computing and IT: Birkbeck provides a range of IT and computing facilities for students, including high-speed internet access, printing and photocopying, and software for academic purposes.
- Student Services: Birkbeck offers a range of student services, including a careers service, disability support, and counselling services.
- Student Union: The Birkbeck Student Union provides students with opportunities to get involved in student life, including clubs and societies, events, and representation.
- Sports and Physical Activities: Birkbeck has sports facilities, including a gym, and offers a range of physical activities, such as yoga and dance classes.
- Conference and Event Spaces: The university has a range of spaces available for events and conferences, including lecture theatres and meeting rooms.
- Accommodation: Although Birkbeck does not have its own student accommodation, the university provides information and advice to help students find suitable accommodation in London.
These are just some of the facilities available at the Birkbeck University of London. The university strives to provide a supportive and inclusive environment for its students and staff.
Notable Alumni
Courses
Admission
Acceptance Rate
The acceptance rate at Birkbeck, University of London, is approximately 55%. This indicates that a substantial proportion of applicants are successfully admitted into the university. Birkbeck is known for its inclusive admissions policies, welcoming a diverse range of students.
Birkbeck University of London Entry Requirements
Following are some of the general Birkbeck University of London entry requirements for both undergraduate and postgraduate programmes:
- Undergraduate: To be eligible for an undergraduate programme at Birkbeck, applicants must have a high school diploma or equivalent and meet the specific entry requirements for their chosen course.
- Postgraduate: To be eligible for a postgraduate programme at Birkbeck, applicants must have a bachelor's degree or equivalent and meet the specific entry requirements for their chosen course. Some postgraduate courses may also require relevant work experience.
In addition to these general requirements, the university may also consider other factors such as personal statements, references, and language proficiency (for international students). Currently, the university has over 13,500 students, with 58% enrolled in undergraduate programmes and 42% enrolled in postgraduate programmes.
Admission requirements for Birkbeck's 350 undergraduate and postgraduate courses are as follows:
- Minimum of 75% in class XII for undergraduate programs
- Minimum of 55% in undergraduate studies for postgraduate programs
- IELTS - 6.5
Birkbeck University of London Fees
Birkbeck, University of London offers competitive tuition fees for its diverse range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. The fee structure is designed to be accessible and transparent, with options for part-time study to accommodate working professionals. Take a look at the overview of a few of the main courses at Birkbeck University:
- M.Sc Data Science - £22,078 /Yr
- M.Sc Information Technology - £22,272 /Yr
- M.A Cognitive Neuroscience and Neuropsychology - £22,078 /Yr
- M.B.A - ₹37.3 L/Yr
- £37,226 /Yr
- B.S Psychology - £19,853 /Yr
- M.Sc Accounting and Financial Management - £25,848 /Yr
Scholarship
International students at Birkbeck University are eligible for a variety of financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and bursaries. There are also other forms of external financial assistance for students studying in the UK. Following are some of the scholarships at Birkbeck University for international students:
|
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Award |
|
Birkbeck International Excellence Scholarships |
Merit-based scholarship |
A discount ranging from £1000 to £5000 on tuition fees for the first year of study. |
|
Commonwealth Scholarship |
Citizens from Commonwealth nations |
Award amount varies. |
|
Chevening Awards |
International students in PG programmes |
Coverage of full tuition fees and living costs.
|
Finances
Most international students are obligated to show proof of sufficient funds in order to obtain a visa. While some students may have the opportunity to make use of scholarships, not all students cut the eligibility to get a scholarship or a grant. Moreover, not all scholarships cover 100% of your study abroad expenses. At such times, most students resort to acquiring education loans to avoid the financial hassles associated with studying at Birkbeck, The University of London. For Indian students, UniCreds is the ideal education loan marketplace if you’re looking for low-interest rates and free consultation services!
Accommodation
There are several student housing options available for students planning to attend Birkbeck, The University of London. You may select from a wide choice of affordable yet elegant student flats, halls of residence, studios, ensuites, and more! You have the option of staying on campus in the university halls of residence or in a private residence. Because of their proximity to the university, on-campus housing options may be ideal; nevertheless, they tend to fill up fast and are more expensive.
UniAcco simplifies the process of finding student housing and offers a variety of options. As a result, students can select from a wide range of available student accommodation near Birkbeck, The University of London, such as luxury studios, en-suites, and shared apartments that are more inexpensive and student-friendly.
Cost of Living
The Bloomsbury neighbourhood of London in the United Kingdom is home to the Birkbeck University of London. As a well-established and central neighbourhood, Bloomsbury can have a higher-than-average cost of living when compared to other parts of London. The following are some estimated average costs for various expenses in Bloomsbury:
- Rent: £1,500 - £2,500 per month for a one-bedroom apartment
- Groceries: £50 - £80 per week
- Utilities (electricity, heating, water, etc.): £100 - £150 per month
- Public transportation: £130 - £150 per month
- Eating out: £10 - £20 per meal
The following table represents average expenditure in London:
|
Particulars |
Cost (Monthly) |
|
Off-Campus Accommodation |
£ 1,220 |
|
On-Campus Accommodation |
£ 1,200 |
|
Transportation |
£ 186 |
|
Food Cost |
£ 480 |
|
Entertainment |
£ 60 |
|
Groceries |
£ 200 |
|
Clothes |
£ 70 |
|
Total Cost of Living with Off Campus Accommodation |
£ 2,216 |
|
Total Cost of Living with On Campus Accommodation |
£ 2,196 |
|
Annual Cost of Living |
£ 26,592 |