Student life in Birmingham

Study at the heart of a vibrant, diverse city

The city is your campus

Join us at Birmingham City University and you will be studying right in the heart of a forward-looking and vibrant city with plenty to see and do just a few minutes’ walk from the campus. Whether you’re moving to Birmingham or you’re a Brummie at heart, there’s so much to student life here to explore.

All about Birmingham

Studying in Birmingham offers you the chance to live and work in the youngest major city in Europe with world-class restaurants, entertainment and shops. Birmingham is home to more than one million people from a range of different cultures and ethnic groups, 40 per cent of this population is 25 and younger.

26 facts you didn't know about Birmingham

We bet you didn't know that there's a crater on the moon named after Birmingham?

More Brummie facts

A-Z guide of Birmingham

Use our handy A-Z to find out what Birmingham has to offer, from hidden gems to seasonal activities and plenty more.

View the guide

Free things to do in Birmingham

Having fun in Brum doesn't have to mean breaking the bank. These days out and activities are ideal for weekend inspo that's easy on your wallet!

Things to do

This is Birmingham
Young
Diverse
Cultured
Distinctive
Green
Tasty

At the heart, of it all.

The UK's second city

But first in innovation

Breaking traditions, and exceeding expectations.

Rooted in history as the City of a Thousand Trades.

Yet always, moving, Forward.

Incredible nightlife

Destination shopping

Full of flavour

Most Michelin Stars outside London.

Live music and festivals for every taste.

Home of sport

8,000 acres of green space and more canals than Venice...

Europe's youngest city with a massive student population.

Discover Brum for yourself

This is Birmingham

Discover a vibrant city where tradition meets innovation. From the dynamic street art of Digbeth to the cutting-edge transformation of Birmingham’s skyline, there’s always something happening here. When you study at Birmingham City University, you’re not just in the city - you’re at the heart of it. Ready to see it for yourself? Join us at one of our Open Days and explore the possibilities.

Our Open Days

Birmingham is a creative hub

With a dynamic blend of cultures, a flourishing arts scene and a relentless pursuit of progress, Birmingham is a city that thrives on diversity, creativity and a pioneering spirit.

Explore Brum's creativity

Discover more about Birmingham

Food and drink

The food and drink scene in Birmingham is thriving. Think award-winning street food festivals and Michelin-starred restaurants. The city is packed with independent gems as well as the standard top chains.

Discover places to eat and drink

Nightlife

There’s a reason Birmingham is a must-visit destination for partygoers from all over the country. With all the big hitters on Broad Street, underground venues in Digbeth and a range of independents further out of the city, there's something to suit all tastes.

Find your next after-dark outing

Shopping

The famous Bullring and Grand Central are packed with big-brand retailers, and restaurants and are always evolving with new shops and attractions. You can find high end designers in the Mailbox, or head to the covered markets to pick up a bargain.

Learn more about shopping in Brum

Sport and being active

Sport lovers can get their fill with three leading football clubs – Aston Villa, Birmingham City and West Bromwich Albion - international cricket at the world-famous Edgbaston Cricket Ground, plus the spectacular Alexander Stadium.

Learn where to get involved

Culture and things to do

As one of the most diverse cities in the UK there's nearly always a festival or big event taking over Birmingham. Whether you want to explore the city's canals, learn about its history or just have some fun, we've pulled together a list of some of the best things to do.

Find things to do

Best parts of Birmingham for students

There's a lot more to Birmingham than the city centre, we've listed some of the other great areas around the city to help you explore and get to know it better.

Find places to visit

Open Days

Join us for our on-campus Open Days to meet us in person, hear from our trailblazing academics and explore our innovative £400m facilities. It's the best way to experience life at BCU for yourself. If you're thinking of getting to us by coach, then you can get 30% off your return ticket!

Book now

Birmingham City Scene

Sign up to our city newsletter to find out what Birmingham has to offer you! Every month we’ll keep you updated on the best places to eat, drink, hang out and more.

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Take a virtual tour

Experience a day in the life as a BCU student through immersive 360-degree tours of our campuses. Take a look at our industry-standard facilities, innovative learning spaces and bustling social spots.

Explore BCU