Quick Answer: University of Roehampton ranks 801-1000 globally (THE 2026) with tuition fees of £13,474-£14,000 for international students. It excels in Education, Psychology, and Creative Writing programs, offering smaller class sizes and strong student support compared to larger Russell Group universities.

Introduction

Choosing the right UK university is a pivotal decision that shapes your academic journey and career prospects. The University of Roehampton, located in Southwest London, offers a unique blend of academic excellence and personal attention that sets it apart from other UK institutions. This comprehensive comparison will help you understand how Roehampton stacks up against other UK universities in terms of rankings, programs, costs, and student experience.

Whether you're considering Roehampton alongside Russell Group universities, other London institutions, or similar-sized universities across the UK, this guide provides the detailed insights you need to make an informed decision and find your perfect university match.

University of Roehampton: Overview and Strengths

Academic Excellence and Rankings

The University of Roehampton has established itself as a respected institution in the UK higher education landscape. In the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026, Roehampton is positioned in the 801-1000 bracket, demonstrating solid academic performance. The university particularly excels in specific subject areas, with its Education department ranking in the top 200 globally according to QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026.

Roehampton's Psychology program holds a prestigious position, ranking 4th in London for Psychology in the Complete University Guide 2026. The university's Creative Writing program has gained international recognition, consistently producing published authors and award-winning graduates.

Unique Campus and Location Benefits

Unlike many urban universities, Roehampton offers a unique parkland campus spanning 54 acres in Southwest London. This green oasis provides students with a peaceful study environment while maintaining easy access to central London within 30 minutes by train. The university comprises four historic colleges: Digby Stuart, Froebel, Southlands, and Whitelands, each with distinct architectural character and traditions dating back to the 1840s.

Comparative Analysis: Roehampton vs Other UK Universities

Roehampton vs Russell Group Universities

When compared to Russell Group institutions like Imperial College London, King's College London, or the University of Manchester, Roehampton offers several distinct advantages:

Class Sizes and Personal Attention: Roehampton maintains an average student-to-staff ratio of 15:1, significantly lower than many Russell Group universities that often exceed 20:1. This translates to more personalized attention, closer relationships with professors, and better academic support.

Accessibility and Inclusivity: With entry requirements typically ranging from BBB to ABB at A-level, Roehampton is more accessible than Russell Group universities that often require A*AA or higher. IELTS requirements at 6.0 overall make it attainable for international students compared to the 7.0-7.5 often required by top-tier institutions.

Cost Considerations: International tuition fees at Roehampton (£13,474-£14,000) are considerably lower than Russell Group universities, where fees can reach £35,000-£50,000 annually for international students.

Roehampton vs Other London Universities

Compared to other London institutions like Middlesex University, London South Bank University, or Greenwich University, Roehampton offers:

Campus Experience: While many London universities operate from urban campuses with limited green space, Roehampton's parkland setting provides a traditional university experience within the capital.

Academic Reputation: Roehampton generally outperforms other post-1992 London universities in national league tables, particularly in Education, Psychology, and humanities subjects.

Graduate Employability: With 94% of graduates in employment or further study within 15 months of graduation (HESA 2026), Roehampton matches or exceeds the performance of comparable London institutions.

Subject-Specific Comparisons

Education Programs: Roehampton's education courses compete directly with top institutions like Cambridge and Oxford. The university's teacher training programs have a 98% employment rate, rivaling the best in the country.

Psychology: While not matching the research intensity of universities like Bath or York, Roehampton's Psychology program offers excellent undergraduate education with strong industry connections and practical experience opportunities.

Business and Management: Though newer compared to established business schools like Warwick or Lancaster, Roehampton's business programs benefit from London's financial district proximity and strong industry partnerships.

Financial Comparison: Costs and Value

Tuition Fees Breakdown

Roehampton's competitive fee structure makes it attractive to international students:

• Undergraduate Programs: £13,474 (classroom-based), £14,000 (laboratory-based)
• Postgraduate Programs: £14,250-£15,500
• MBA Programs: £18,500

Compared to Russell Group averages of £25,000-£35,000, Roehampton offers significant savings without compromising educational quality.

Living Costs and Location Benefits

While London accommodation costs remain high across all universities, Roehampton's Southwest London location offers:

• On-campus accommodation: £150-£200 per week
• Local private housing: 15-20% cheaper than central London
• Transport costs: Zone 2 location reduces daily travel expenses
• Part-time opportunities: Access to London job market for students

Student Experience and Support Services

International Student Support

Roehampton demonstrates strong commitment to international student success:

Pre-arrival Support: Dedicated international team provides visa guidance, airport pickup services, and pre-departure briefings.

Academic Support: English language support programs, academic writing workshops, and subject-specific tutoring are available throughout the academic year.

Cultural Integration: Regular cultural events, international student societies, and mentorship programs help students adapt to UK academic and social life.

Career Services and Alumni Network

The university's Career Development Centre offers:

• Industry Connections: Strong links with education sector, NHS, creative industries, and London businesses
• Placement Opportunities: 85% of courses offer work placement options
• Graduate Support: Continued career advice for up to three years post-graduation
• Alumni Network: Active global network with over 50,000 graduates

Research Opportunities and Academic Resources

Research Excellence

While Roehampton may not match the research output of Russell Group universities, it excels in specific areas:

Research Areas of Excellence:

• Education and Social Sciences
• Health and Life Sciences
• Arts and Humanities
• Psychology and Human Development

Student Research Opportunities: Undergraduate research programs, summer research internships, and direct collaboration with faculty members are readily available.

Library and Learning Resources

The university library system provides:

• 24/7 Study Spaces: Multiple libraries across the four colleges
• Digital Resources: Extensive online databases and e-learning platforms
• Specialized Collections: Notable collections in education, children's literature, and theology

Graduate Outcomes and Career Prospects

Employment Statistics

Roehampton graduates demonstrate strong career outcomes:

• Graduate Employment Rate: 94% within 15 months
• Further Study: 15% pursue postgraduate qualifications
• Average Starting Salary: £22,500 (2026 data)
• Sector Diversity: Graduates enter education (35%), healthcare (15%), business (20%), creative industries (12%), and other sectors (18%)

Professional Recognition

Many Roehampton programs hold professional accreditations:

• Teacher Training: QTS (Qualified Teacher Status)
• Psychology: BPS (British Psychological Society) accreditation
• Business Programs: Professional body recognition
• Health Sciences: Professional registration eligibility

Making Your Decision: Key Considerations

When Roehampton Might Be Right for You

Choose Roehampton if you value:

• Personalized attention and smaller class sizes
• Strong teaching quality over research intensity
• London location with campus atmosphere
• Affordable tuition without compromising quality
• Specific subject strengths in Education, Psychology, or Creative Arts

When Other Universities Might Be Better

Consider alternatives if you prioritize:

• Global prestige and Russell Group status
• Research-intensive environment and PhD opportunities
• Highly competitive admission standards
• Extensive international recognition
• Large university resources and facilities

Conclusion

The University of Roehampton offers a compelling alternative to both Russell Group institutions and other UK universities, particularly for students seeking quality education, personal attention, and London opportunities at an accessible price point. Your choice should align with your academic goals, financial situation, and preferred learning environment. Consider visiting campus, speaking with current students, and evaluating how each university's strengths match your career aspirations.

Key Statistics

📊 University of Roehampton ranks 801-1000 globally in THE World University Rankings 2026

💰 International tuition fees range from £13,474-£14,000, significantly lower than Russell Group averages of £25,000-£35,000

🎓 94% of Roehampton graduates are in employment or further study within 15 months of graduation

📚 Student-to-staff ratio of 15:1 provides more personalized attention than many UK universities

🏆 Psychology program ranks 4th in London according to Complete University Guide 2026

🌳 54-acre parkland campus in Southwest London offers unique green space within 30 minutes of central London

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I apply to University of Roehampton compared to other UK universities?

Apply through UCAS with the same process as other UK universities. Roehampton typically requires BBB-ABB at A-level, making it more accessible than Russell Group institutions requiring A*AA+. International students need IELTS 6.0 overall, lower than many top universities requiring 7.0+. The application deadline is January 29, 2027 for September 2027 entry, with international applications accepted until June 2027.

What is the main difference between University of Roehampton and Russell Group universities?

The key differences include class sizes (Roehampton has 15:1 student-staff ratio vs 20:1+ at Russell Group), accessibility (lower entry requirements), cost (£13,474-£14,000 vs £25,000-£35,000+ fees), and focus (teaching excellence vs research intensity). Roehampton offers more personalized attention and affordability, while Russell Group universities provide higher global prestige and research opportunities.

How much does it cost to study at University of Roehampton compared to other London universities?

Roehampton's international tuition fees (£13,474-£14,000) are competitive with other post-1992 London universities like Middlesex (£14,500-£16,000) and Greenwich (£14,500-£16,150), but significantly lower than prestigious London institutions like King's College (£28,050-£46,650). Living costs are similar across London, though Roehampton's Southwest location can be 15-20% cheaper for private accommodation than central London areas.

What are University of Roehampton's strongest academic programs compared to other UK universities?

Roehampton excels particularly in Education (top 200 globally in QS rankings), Psychology (4th in London), and Creative Writing (internationally recognized). The university's teacher training programs achieve 98% employment rates, competing with Cambridge and Oxford. While it may not match Russell Group research intensity, Roehampton's teaching quality and student support in these areas often surpass larger institutions.

How does University of Roehampton's campus compare to other UK universities?

Roehampton offers a unique 54-acre parkland campus in Southwest London, combining green space tranquility with capital city access. This contrasts with typical urban London universities that lack green space, and traditional campus universities in smaller cities that lack London's opportunities. The four historic colleges (dating to 1840s) provide intimate community feel while maintaining modern facilities and 30-minute connections to central London.

What career prospects do University of Roehampton graduates have compared to other universities?

Roehampton graduates show strong employment outcomes with 94% in work or further study within 15 months, matching or exceeding many comparable institutions. Average starting salary of £22,500 reflects the diverse career paths, with 35% entering education, 20% business, 15% healthcare, and 12% creative industries. While Russell Group graduates may command higher starting salaries, Roehampton's London location and industry connections provide excellent career development opportunities.

Key Takeaways

✅ University of Roehampton offers competitive education at £13,474-£14,000 international fees, significantly lower than Russell Group universities

✅ Smaller class sizes (15:1 student-staff ratio) provide more personalized attention than most UK universities

✅ Strong performance in Education, Psychology, and Creative Writing programs with excellent employment rates

✅ Unique parkland campus in Southwest London combines green space with capital city opportunities

✅ 94% graduate employment rate within 15 months demonstrates strong career outcomes

✅ More accessible entry requirements (BBB-ABB A-levels, IELTS 6.0) compared to Russell Group institutions