NTU scoops two awards at the Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2022 – and is ranked 2nd best university in the UK

Published: 26/05/2022

We’re very proud to announce that NTU scooped two awards in this year’s Whatuni Student Choice Awards (WUSCAs) and was named runner-up in the coveted University of the Year category.

Thank you to all our students for voting for NTU in the WUSCAs this year, which are the UK's biggest student-voted awards. They recognise, based on student feedback, those higher education institutions who have gone to great lengths to meet and exceed student expectations throughout the past year.

NTU won the award for Best UK university for Student Life. This was based on students' feedback on the sense of community they feel, the diversity and extent of socialising, sports and extracurricular activities that are available, and also how the University promotes good mental health.

One of our students says:

“NTU has excellent and modern facilities available for students to use. The libraries are open 24 hours and the staff across all departments are very helpful. Teaching staff care about their students and do not mind going above and beyond for their success … In terms of student life, the campus location has a huge role in this. Although some campuses are far from the city centre, there are regular transport methods such as the bus or tram available even late at night … There is so much to get involved with and lots to talk about. I would definitely recommend Nottingham Trent University!” – Student review on Whatuni

NTU also won the award in the International Category, taking top spot in recognition for how it welcomes and supports international students, focuses on their integration and provides a range of activities to help students settle in.

One of our students says:

“The university has provided so many opportunities to explore different cultures through the Global Lounge and by organising Global Week. The support provided for students during assessments in particular is very helpful. Other than that, the university provided guidance every step of the way in terms of accommodation, opening a bank account and other things that are a part of an international student's life in a new country. It’s been a great experience overall.” – Student review on Whatuni

NTU was a close second in the overall University of the Year Category, missing out by a single hundredth of a point, and rising from 13th place in 2020.

The University of the Year award is a reflection of how students perceive their university, and is associated with a strong sense of community and pride in an institution. Students are asked to rate their whole university experience, taking into account all the aspects that have shaped their time at an institution. Reviews are frequently self-reflective, mentioning aspects such as how the university experience has helped students grow, how it has led to friendships forming, and being the right fit on a personal and academic level.

NTU also won runner-up for Best UK University for Postgraduate Studies – maintaining its position from 2020. This was based on students' views on the facilities available for postgraduate students as well as how they welcome and support them through their studies.

Steve Denton, Chief Operating Officer and Registrar says: “These awards mean a lot to the University, as they are voted for by our own students. We work hard to ensure our students have the best experience while they are here, and to be recognised in several categories is testament to the dedication of our colleagues in achieving that.”

Overall, NTU was shortlisted in six categories for this year’s awards and placed in the top ten in all six: University of the Year, International, Student Life, Students’ Union, Postgraduate and Facilities.