University of Greater Manchester

University of Greater Manchester: Career-Focused Education, Practical Learning and Affordable Study in Greater Manchester

The University of Greater Manchester (UGM), formerly known as the University of Bolton, is a public university based in Bolton, Greater Manchester, England. The university officially adopted its new name in 2024 and continues to offer a broad range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes.

UGM focuses strongly on practical, career-oriented education, with programmes covering Computer Science, Cyber Security, Artificial Intelligence, Business, Accounting and Finance, Engineering, Law, Psychology, Health, Nursing, Education, Sports and Creative Arts.

One of its key advantages for international students is its comparatively accessible tuition: the university states that most international courses currently cost £17,500 per year, although specialist programmes can have different fees.

What is the University of Greater Manchester Known For?

The university is particularly known for:

• Computer Science
• Cyber Security
• Artificial Intelligence
• Software Engineering
• Business and Management
• Accounting and Finance
• Engineering
• Law
• Psychology
• Nursing and Healthcare
• Education
• Sport
• Creative Arts
• Practical, industry-focused education
• Relatively affordable tuition and living costs

Computer Science & Computing

UGM offers computing programmes covering areas such as:

• Computer Science
• Software Engineering
• Cyber Security
• Artificial Intelligence
• Computing
• Digital technologies

The BSc (Hons) Computer Science is a three-year programme. For students starting in 2026/27, the international tuition fee is £17,500 per year, giving a listed three-year tuition total of £52,500.

Students can develop skills in:

• Programming
• Software development
• Databases
• Algorithms
• Web technologies
• Computer systems
• Artificial intelligence
• Cyber security
• Software engineering

Cyber Security

Cyber Security is particularly relevant for students interested in the rapidly growing digital-security sector.

Students can develop knowledge of:

• Network security
• Cyber threats
• Digital security
• Security management
• Ethical security practices
• Information systems

This can lead towards careers in cybersecurity, IT security, network administration and related technology roles.

Business & Management

UGM offers programmes in areas such as:

• Business Management
• Business and Marketing
• Business Administration
• Entrepreneurship
• Management

Students can develop skills in:

• Business strategy
• Marketing
• Leadership
• Management
• Entrepreneurship
• Professional communication

Accounting & Finance

Students interested in financial careers can study areas including:

• Accounting
• Finance
• Financial management
• Business economics

These programmes can prepare students for careers in accounting, banking, finance, business and professional services.

Engineering

UGM offers engineering and technology-related programmes covering areas such as:

• Mechanical Engineering
• Electrical and Electronic Engineering
• Civil Engineering
• Engineering technology

Students can combine theoretical knowledge with practical and project-based learning.

Law

Students can study:

• Law
• Legal practice
• Commercial law
• Criminal law
• Legal research

The university's practical approach can be useful for students interested in professional legal careers.

Psychology

Psychology programmes cover subjects related to:

• Human behaviour
• Cognitive psychology
• Social psychology
• Research methods
• Development
• Mental health

Students develop analytical and research skills that can support careers across psychology-related and broader graduate roles.

Health, Nursing & Social Care

UGM has a significant portfolio of healthcare-related programmes, including areas such as:

• Nursing
• Midwifery
• Health and social care
• Allied health
• Public health

These programmes combine academic study with professional and practical preparation.

Education

Students can study:

• Education
• Teacher training
• Early years
• Primary education
• Education-related professional programmes

The university's teacher-training courses provide pathways towards careers in education.

Sport

UGM also offers programmes related to:

• Sport
• Sports rehabilitation
• Exercise
• Coaching
• Sports development

Creative Arts

Creative subjects include areas such as:

• Graphic design
• Fine art
• Performing arts
• Photography
• Media
• Creative practice

This gives students options beyond the university's technology and professional programmes.

University of Greater Manchester – Academic Environment

UGM places significant emphasis on practical learning, employability and student support.

Its location in Bolton also gives students access to the wider Greater Manchester employment market, including Manchester itself.

Quick Facts

• Location: Bolton, Greater Manchester, England
• Formerly: University of Bolton
• Public university
• Undergraduate and postgraduate programmes
• Strong professional and vocational focus
• Computing, Business, Engineering, Healthcare and Education among its major areas
• Most international courses currently £17,500 per year
• Lower living costs than many major UK cities, according to the university

Q. Is the University of Greater Manchester a good university in the UK?

A. UGM can be a good option for students who prioritise practical education, employability, student support and relatively affordable study costs over studying at a highly research-intensive or globally elite university. Its location also gives students access to the wider Greater Manchester economy.

University of Greater Manchester Campus – A Practical University Experience

The university's main campus is located on Deane Road in Bolton.

Students have access to:

• Lecture rooms
• Libraries
• Computing facilities
• Specialist laboratories
• Study spaces
• Healthcare facilities
• Sports facilities
• Student support
• Careers services

Life in Bolton

Bolton is a town within Greater Manchester, providing students with a more affordable environment than central Manchester.

Students can find:

• Shops
• Restaurants
• Cafés
• Sports facilities
• Entertainment
• Parks
• Local cultural attractions

The university describes Bolton as offering relatively low living costs compared with many UK university locations.

Access to Manchester

One of the major advantages of the location is access to Manchester, one of the UK's largest student and employment centres.

Students can potentially access opportunities in:

• Technology
• Finance
• Business
• Healthcare
• Media
• Engineering
• Retail
• Professional services

This allows students to live in the comparatively affordable Bolton area while accessing the wider Greater Manchester region.

International Student Experience

UGM provides international students with support covering:

• Applications
• Tuition fees
• Visa guidance
• Accommodation
• International admissions
• Student support
• Careers

The university also provides dedicated information about international fees, scholarships and living costs.

Q. Is University of Greater Manchester good for international students?

A. It can be a good choice for international students looking for practical courses, comparatively affordable tuition and living costs, and access to the Greater Manchester employment market.

University of Greater Manchester Courses – Computing, Business, Engineering, Healthcare, Law and Professional Subjects

The University of Greater Manchester offers undergraduate and postgraduate courses across Computing, Cyber Security, Artificial Intelligence, Business, Accounting, Engineering, Law, Psychology, Healthcare, Education, Sport and Creative Arts. Its programmes generally place strong emphasis on practical learning and career preparation.

Popular Subject Areas

Computer Science & Computing

Computer Science | Software Engineering | Cyber Security | Artificial Intelligence

Students can develop skills in:

• Programming
• Software development
• Databases
• Algorithms
• Web technologies
• Computer systems
• Artificial intelligence
• Cyber security
• Software engineering

The BSc (Hons) Computer Science is a three-year programme designed to develop both theoretical understanding and practical computing skills.

Cyber Security

Students interested in digital security can explore:

• Cyber security
• Network security
• Information security
• Cyber threats
• Security management
• Digital investigation

These programmes can prepare students for roles in cybersecurity, IT security, network administration and information security.

Business & Management

Business Management | Business and Marketing | Entrepreneurship | Management

Students can develop knowledge in:

• Business strategy
• Management
• Marketing
• Leadership
• Entrepreneurship
• Business development
• Professional communication

These courses can lead to careers across business, management, marketing and professional services.

Accounting & Finance

Students can study areas such as:

• Accounting
• Finance
• Financial management
• Business
• Economics

The programmes can provide preparation for careers in:

• Accounting
• Banking
• Finance
• Financial services
• Business management

Engineering

UGM offers engineering-related programmes covering areas such as:

• Mechanical Engineering
• Electrical and Electronic Engineering
• Civil Engineering
• Engineering technology

Students can combine theoretical concepts with practical projects and technical problem-solving.

Law

Law-related programmes cover areas such as:

• Criminal law
• Commercial law
• Legal research
• Legal practice
• Legal theory

Students can develop analytical, research and communication skills relevant to legal and professional careers.

Psychology

Psychology programmes explore areas including:

• Human behaviour
• Cognitive psychology
• Social psychology
• Development
• Research methods
• Mental health

Students develop analytical and research skills that can be applied to psychology-related careers and wider graduate roles.

Health, Nursing & Social Care

Healthcare is an important part of the university's course portfolio.

Students can study areas including:

• Nursing
• Midwifery
• Health and social care
• Allied health
• Public health

Professional programmes combine academic learning with practical and clinical preparation where required.

Education

Students can study:

• Education
• Teacher training
• Early years
• Primary education
• Education studies

These programmes provide pathways towards careers in teaching, education and related services.

Sport

UGM also offers sport-related study in areas such as:

• Sport
• Exercise
• Coaching
• Sports rehabilitation
• Sports development

Creative Arts & Media

Creative programmes include areas such as:

• Graphic design
• Fine art
• Photography
• Media
• Performing arts
• Creative practice

This provides opportunities for students interested in creative and cultural careers.

Q. What Are the Best Courses at the University of Greater Manchester?

A. UGM is particularly worth considering for Computer Science, Cyber Security, Artificial Intelligence, Software Engineering, Business, Accounting and Finance, Engineering, Psychology, Healthcare, Education and Sport. Students looking for practical and career-oriented education may find these programmes particularly suitable.

Student Life at the University of Greater Manchester – Affordable Living and Greater Manchester Opportunities

The University of Greater Manchester offers students a campus-based experience in Bolton, while its location provides access to the wider Greater Manchester region.

Students can participate in:

• Student societies
• Sports
• Student Union activities
• Volunteering
• Academic events
• Careers events
• Cultural activities

Campus Experience

Students have access to:

• Lecture facilities
• Library
• Computing facilities
• Specialist laboratories
• Study spaces
• Healthcare facilities
• Sports facilities
• Careers services
• Student support

Life in Bolton

Bolton provides a more affordable alternative to living directly in central Manchester.

Students can find:

• Shops
• Restaurants
• Cafés
• Sports facilities
• Parks
• Entertainment
• Local cultural attractions

The town also provides access to the wider Greater Manchester region.

Manchester

Manchester is one of the UK's largest student and employment centres.

Students can potentially access opportunities in:

• Technology
• Finance
• Business
• Engineering
• Healthcare
• Media
• Retail
• Professional services

This makes UGM's location particularly useful for students who want access to a major employment market without necessarily paying central-Manchester living costs.

International Student Experience

International students can access support with:

• Applications
• Visa guidance
• Accommodation
• Tuition fees
• Arrival in the UK
• Student support
• Careers

The university also provides international applicants with information about scholarships, fees and living costs.

Q. What is student life like at the University of Greater Manchester?

A. Student life is practical, community-focused and relatively affordable, with the added advantage of being within the wider Greater Manchester region. It can suit students who want access to Manchester without living directly in the city centre.

Careers & Employability – Practical Experience and Professional Development

Employability is an important part of UGM's approach to education.

Students can receive support with:

• Career planning
• CV preparation
• Interview preparation
• Job applications
• Work experience
• Placements
• Employer events
• Graduate opportunities

Depending on the programme, students may also gain practical experience through:

• Placements
• Internships
• Industry projects
• Professional practice
• Work-based learning

Career Areas

Graduates can pursue careers in:

• Software development
• Artificial intelligence
• Cyber security
• IT
• Business
• Accounting
• Finance
• Engineering
• Healthcare
• Education
• Law
• Psychology
• Sport
• Creative industries

Q. Does the University of Greater Manchester provide placement opportunities?

A. Yes. Placement and work-experience opportunities are available depending on the programme. Students should check their specific course structure to determine whether a placement is compulsory, optional or unavailable.

For Indian Students

UGM can be particularly relevant for Indian students interested in:

Computer Science | Artificial Intelligence | Cyber Security | Software Engineering | Business | Accounting & Finance | Engineering | Psychology | Nursing | Education

Its key advantages are practical education, relatively accessible tuition and living costs, and access to the wider Greater Manchester employment market.

Indian applicants should carefully check:

• Academic entry requirements
• English-language requirements
• Course-specific requirements
• Tuition fees
• Scholarships
• Accommodation
• Student visa requirements

For the 2026/27 academic year, the university lists £17,500 per year for most international undergraduate courses, although individual programmes can have different fees.

University of Greater Manchester Fees – Tuition Costs, Scholarships and Financial Support for International Students

The University of Greater Manchester offers relatively accessible tuition fees compared with many UK universities. For 2026/27, the university lists £17,500 per year for most international undergraduate courses, although certain specialist programmes may have different fees.

Tuition Fees for International Students

Programme / Study Area	International Tuition Fee
Most undergraduate programmes	£17,500 per year
Computer Science	£17,500 per year
Business & Management	£17,500 per year
Accounting & Finance	£17,500 per year
Cyber Security	£17,500 per year
Engineering	£17,500 per year
Psychology	£17,500 per year
Selected Healthcare programmes	Course-specific

The exact fee should always be checked on the individual course page because specialist professional programmes can have different fee arrangements.

Computer Science Fees

The BSc (Hons) Computer Science programme is listed at £17,500 per year for international students starting in 2026/27.

For a standard three-year degree, the indicative tuition total would therefore be:

£17,500 × 3 = £52,500

This does not include accommodation or living expenses.

Additional Costs

Students should budget separately for:

• Accommodation
• Food and groceries
• Local transport
• Books and study materials
• Personal expenses
• Visa and immigration costs
• Travel
• Course-specific equipment
• Other personal or academic costs

Living in Bolton can be more affordable than living directly in central Manchester, which may help international students manage their overall study budget.

Scholarships for International Students

The University of Greater Manchester provides scholarship and fee-reduction opportunities for eligible international students.

Available funding can depend on:

• Nationality
• Academic achievement
• Course
• Intake
• Previous qualifications
• University eligibility criteria

Students should check the latest international scholarship information before accepting an offer because scholarship amounts and eligibility can change between intakes.

Q. How much does the University of Greater Manchester cost for international students?

A. For 2026/27, most international undergraduate courses are listed at £17,500 per year. Some specialist courses may have different fees, so students should confirm the exact amount for their chosen programme.

Q. Is the University of Greater Manchester affordable for international students?

A. It can be comparatively affordable. The £17,500 annual tuition fee is lower than the fees charged by many UK universities, and studying in Bolton can also be less expensive than living in central Manchester.

University of Greater Manchester for International Students – Support and Greater Manchester Opportunities

UGM provides international students with support throughout the application and arrival process.

Support can include:

• International admissions
• Visa guidance
• CAS-related support
• Accommodation information
• Arrival guidance
• Student support
• Careers advice
• Tuition-fee information
• Scholarship guidance

Why UGM Can Be Attractive for Indian Students

For Indian students, UGM offers a combination of:

£17,500 Tuition + Greater Manchester Location + Practical Education + Career Opportunities

It can be particularly relevant for students interested in:

• Computer Science
• Cyber Security
• Artificial Intelligence
• Software Engineering
• Business
• Accounting and Finance
• Engineering
• Psychology
• Healthcare
• Education

Students can study in Bolton while remaining connected to the wider Greater Manchester employment market.

Q. Is the University of Greater Manchester good for Indian students?

A. It can be a good option for students who want practical, career-focused education with comparatively accessible tuition and living costs. Its location also gives students access to Manchester's wider technology, business, healthcare and professional-services markets.

The Honest Verdict – Is the University of Greater Manchester Worth the Cost?

UGM is best suited to students who prioritise practical education, affordability and employability.

University of Greater Manchester Is an Excellent Choice If You...

• Want to study in Greater Manchester.
• Prefer a practical learning environment.
• Are interested in Computer Science.
• Want to study Cyber Security or AI.
• Are interested in Business or Accounting.
• Want to study Engineering.
• Are interested in Healthcare.
• Want relatively accessible international tuition.
• Prefer living outside a major city centre.
• Want access to Manchester's employment market.

It May Not Be the Right Fit If You...

• Want a globally elite research university.
• Prioritise international rankings above affordability.
• Prefer studying directly in central Manchester.
• Want a highly specialised research environment.
• Are looking specifically for a large traditional university campus.

For students looking for a balance between cost, practical education and access to a major UK employment region, UGM can be a sensible option.

Frequently Asked Questions About University of Greater Manchester Fees

Q. What is the international tuition fee at UGM?

A. Most international undergraduate courses for 2026/27 are listed at £17,500 per year.

Q. How much would a three-year undergraduate degree cost?

A. At the standard £17,500 annual fee, the indicative tuition total would be £52,500 for three years, before scholarships or other reductions.

Q. Does UGM offer scholarships?

A. Yes. International students can access scholarship and fee-reduction opportunities subject to the relevant eligibility requirements and intake conditions.

Q. Is accommodation included in the tuition fee?

A. No. Accommodation and living expenses are separate from tuition.

Q. Can international students work while studying?

A. Eligible international students can generally work within the conditions attached to their UK Student visa. Students should check the current UK immigration rules applicable to their individual visa and course.

Q. What other costs should students consider?

A. Students should budget for accommodation, food, transport, books, visa costs, travel and personal expenses in addition to tuition.

A Final Word – Why the University of Greater Manchester Deserves Your Consideration

The University of Greater Manchester offers a combination of:

Practical Education | Affordable Tuition | Greater Manchester Location | Career Development | Student Support

For 2026/27, the standard international undergraduate tuition fee for most courses is £17,500 per year.

Its strongest areas include:

Computer Science | Cyber Security | Artificial Intelligence | Business | Accounting & Finance | Engineering | Psychology | Healthcare | Education

For students who want a practical UK degree without the higher tuition and living costs associated with some major UK cities, UGM can be a worthwhile option.

Overall Verdict: A practical and comparatively affordable university for international students, particularly attractive for students seeking career-focused courses and access to the wider Greater Manchester employment market.