Southampton Solent University

Southampton Solent University (SSU) is a dynamic and distinctive new university dedicated to academic excellence, social justice and the integration of theory and practice. ‘Real world’ experience is built into an exciting range of innovative courses, whether in business, technology, art and design, media production, maritime, the creative industries, or sport.

We have strong local roots within Southampton and its region, working closely with the city, the community, employers and voluntary organisations. The University is open, friendly and inclusive, with not surprisingly, given its great location and growing reputation, a strong international dimension. Overall, about one in five of our students come from Europe or overseas and seventy percent of the total student population comes from outside the Hampshire area. This makes for a lively, welcoming and stimulating place for work, study and relaxation.

In recent years, the University has pioneered new subject areas and curriculum approaches to higher education and experienced a 100% increase in applications over the past five years. Traditionally strong in what used to be called ‘vocational subjects’, many of its courses enjoy professional body recognition and accreditation. These represent an imaginative response to the fast changing nature and needs of the modern economy, and also reflect the strengths of our staff, many with an industry or practitioner background. As a result, our courses combine intellectual stimulus, academic excellence and ‘hands on’ experience shaped and informed by employers.

Our students have opportunities to work on real projects for external clients, both as part of their formal assessment and, in many cases, as a form of paid consultancy arranged by the University with employers and other organisations. Employment and enterprise are prominent themes shaping our thinking and educational practice. There are, for example, now 100 properly paid and supervised graduate internships provided by the University each year. It also offers 40 student business start ups annually, giving help throughout, from initial concept, building a business case, offering incubator space, and beyond to securing external financial backing.

If you are looking for a great place to live and learn, where academic excellence is enhanced by ‘real world’ learning experiences, or perhaps you are an employer who appreciates the practical benefits that higher education can bring to your business, then we think that Southampton Solent University will have a great deal that interests you.