The Royal Agricultural University (formerly the Royal Agricultural College) was the first agricultural college in the English speaking world. Strongly rooted in history and tradition, the Royal Agricultural University has grown into a confident community offering the latest in teaching and research. The university continues to lead the development of teaching and research in agriculture, agri-business, equine, food, and land & property management.
The university offers a stimulating, unique learning environment for students. In 2012, there were 1100 students from 40 different countries studying at RAU. Often referred to as the 'Oxbridge of the Countryside', the RAU is located on the historic campus in Cotswold countryside in Cirencester. The Complete University Guide recently ranked the RAU as the safest university in the South West of England and the fifth safest university overall in England and Wales.
The university offers over 40 career-focused programmes for undergraduate and postgraduate students which enable them to achieve their future goals in agriculture, land, food business, equine and real estate industries.
The courses combine academic excellence with practical application. Courses are managed and taught by experienced staff and specialist consultants, all of whom are leaders within their fields.
The university has strong industry links and boasts of an impressive graduate employment rate - on average over the last five years, 94% of graduate were either in employment or further study within six months of graduating.
Location and Facilities
The Royal Agricultural University is set in the heart of the beautiful Cotswold countryside, about 2 kms on the outskirts of Cirencester. There is a free shuttle bus that runs during term-time between the university and the town centre. Cirencester is known as the capital of the Cotswolds. It is a lively market town with plenty of high street shops, markets, superstores, boutiques, traditional pubs & bars, upbeat clubs and restaurants. Cirencester is located near to Cheltenham, Swindon, Bath and Oxford and has excellent transport links.The nearest train station is Kemble, which has direct trains to London in 90 minutes.
The campus is large enough that all of the facilities (except the nearby University Farms) are on site, yet small enough to create a sense of community amongst students and staff. There are a range of clubs and societies that students can join on campus. The Student's Union also puts on activities throughout the year, such as themed nights and the universities balls. There is a strong support network for students, including International Student Support Officers and a dedicated Careers Team, who offer hand-on advice. There is also a health centre, shop, cafe and gym on campus. There is 24-hr security on campus.
Accommodation
There are various types of accommodation on campus, both for undergraduates and postgraduates. Rooms range from fully catered and including all of your meals to self-catered. All rooms come fully furnished including bedding and have internet access. The RAU also provides extensive information and help for students who wish to live off-campus.