The South West of England is made up of seven counties, with rural areas surrounding key student cities – from Plymouth and Bournemouth up to Bath, Bristol and Cheltenham & Gloucester.
You'll find many a festival – including the world-famous Glastonbury. And if you're a cider or cheese buff, you'll have plenty to try in the South West. You can always walk it off in Dartmoor and Exmoor national parks, or beautiful countryside from the Cotswolds to Land's End.
Cornwall, Dorset, and Devon are big coastal favourites, with idyllic beaches and waves to test the bravest surfers.
Providers in the South West
Chat to students
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Sophia
Bournemouth UniversityBSc (Hons) MidwiferyHi! I am an international Student from Minnesota in the States, I am studying midwifery. I love to travel, being outside and you can always catch me rollerskating by the beach. -
Lucy
University of PlymouthMSc Clinical PsychologyMy dream is to become a clinical psychologist. I have spent lots of time in Sierra Leone and I would love to move out there for a while in the future. I have experience working with children and adults with disabilities. I would love to continue into the future. -
Matthew
Bournemouth UniversityBSc (Hons) Information Technology ManagementHi! I am a second year student currently studying information technology management at Bournemouth University. I live only two hours away from Bournemouth in London, and I am enjoying a very different lifestyle down in this seaside town. I am more than happy to answer any questions you have about my course or just university life in general so please don't hesitate to send me a message! -
Ed
University of PlymouthLLB (Hons) LawI am currently a second year Law student at the University of Plymouth! From my degree to student life I cannot recommend Plymouth University enough, I have loved every moment so far! -
Kenzie-Jayne
University of PlymouthMA Human Resource ManagementI’m hoping to study a Business Master’s programme in the future and I’m not sure where I would I like my career to go yet! I’m from Cornwall and have a love for both spending my free time in the outdoors exploring the moors or shops and indoors reading or watching a film. -
Phoebe
University of PlymouthBEd (Hons) Primary (KS1/KS2 with QTS)After finishing my A-levels at small sixth form in 2019 (and a few gap years!), I started my university journey. It took me a long time to decide what path I wanted to take, so I very much relate to the uncertainty you might be feeling at this stage! I am from a very rural village in Cornwall, so naturally love the outdoors. So, for someone not used to urban living, Plymouth is a great in-between! It has so much to offer, including a balance between city and coastal life. I am now in my third (and final!) year of my BEd Primary Education degree, specialising in geography. After graduating in 2025, I hope to pursue a career in teaching and share my passion for educating for sustainability. -
Niamh
Bournemouth UniversityBSc (Hons) Adult NursingFinished my GCSEs and went straight to work. After that, I worked in a hospital to get experience. I didn't get my A levels so I went back to college to do the access course. Now I'm in my final year of nursing. -
Sharon
University of PlymouthMEng (Hons) RoboticsI am an international student born and raised in Qatar but is inherently Indian. I love how I have been exposed to different cultures and lifestyles living in a country that is different from where I'm from. Moving to Plymouth for university has been an exciting journey so far and I hope to make the most out of the years I intend to be here. Aside from academics, I love music, dance, art, watching a bunch of TV shows, movies and reading all kinds of genres! -
Emily
Bournemouth UniversityBA (Hons) Social WorkHi I'm Emily! I’m a third year Social Work Student, I’m passionate about social justice. Last year I was the choreographer of the ballet team so please feel free to ask any sports / societies related questions too! -
alex
Bournemouth UniversityBSc (Hons) Psychology with Forensic InvestigationI'm alex, I'm a final yaer psychology student, I run the psychology society and am a trustee at the student union as well as a research assistant and student ambassador at BU. On the weekend I play rugby and enjoy reading and playing music. -
Amelia
Bournemouth UniversityBSc (Hons) Children's and Young People's NursingHi! My name is Amelia, I’m a second year Children’s and Young People’s Nursing Student. I’m really enjoying the course and my nursing journey so far. Please feel free to message with any questions or queries you may have! -
Li
Bournemouth UniversityBSc (Hons) Software EngineeringHiya! I'm super passionate about my course and society, that I helped set-up and am the President of! So do feel free to ask anything about those or other uni / general questions, I'm all ears :) -
Elena
University of PlymouthBEng (Hons) Mechanical EngineeringHi! I'm Elena, I am a mature student (aged 31) studying Mechanical Engineering. I have a strong passion for art and design, so I love the fact that Mechanical Engineering can be really creative. My dream is to go into Engineering Design someday. I have a disability and I am a wheelchair user, but I don't let that stop me! -
Kirsty
Bournemouth UniversityBSc (Hons) PhysiotherapyHi, I'm Kirsty a third year physio student. I am looking toward working within the NHS and the placements at uni have definitely helped me think yeah this is the right course for me. I've always had a dream of doing physio but got to uni worried it was just something I was caught up on. However, after 1st year I 100% knew that this was the course I wanted to do in the future and there are so many routes to go down! Please do ask me any questions about the course or life at uni, I'll be happy to answer! -
Maria
University of PlymouthBSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy (Full-time)I am in my second year of Occupational therapy (BSc Hons) at the University of Plymouth. I came straight to uni from college, where I studied Sociology, Performing arts and Health and Social Care. When I qualify as an OT, I am interested in working in psychosocial settings and with children. -
Tia
Bournemouth UniversityBSc (Hons) GeographyHi I am Tia, a second year Geography student. Before coming to University I decided to take a gap year. I love nature, spending time outdoors and exploring! In my spare time at University I enjoy exploring the area and travelling along the coast! If you need any tips on day trips just let me know!😊 If you have any questions about studying Geography or just University life in general drop me a message. -
Kiya
Bournemouth UniversityBA (Hons) Computer Animation Art and DesignHello! I'm Kiya, a student ambassador for Bournemouth University, studying Animation. Our course here is strongly focused on 3D animation, which allows us to explore industry-standard tools and techniques. While we don’t have a specific 2D animation unit, life drawing is a key part of the curriculum and really helps to develop an understanding of movement and anatomy—skills that are critical in both 2D and 3D animation. I’ve always been fascinated by the way animation brings stories to life, whether it’s through films, musicals, or even video games. I’m especially inspired by movies like *Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse* for its incredible use of both 2D and 3D animation, and musicals like "back to the future the musical" which bring so much color and energy to storytelling along side film techniques on stage . Those influences really shape my creative process, and I often find myself blending styles from different mediums in my personal projects. BU has given me a solid foundation in 3D animation through software like Maya and Unreal Engine, but what really excites me is how the course encourages us to think creatively and find our own artistic voice. It’s not just about the technical skills; it’s about how you tell a story visually and emotionally. If you have any questions about the Animation course, BU, or why bournemouth is such a good place for animation students, feel free to reach out. I’m always happy to share my experience and passion for animation! -
Hannah
Bournemouth UniversityMA Multimedia JournalismHi I'm Hannah and I've just graduated from BA (Hons) TV Production at Bournemouth Uni. I am now a Masters student studying Multimedia Journalism with aspirations to be a music and entertainment reporter/presenter. I love music and radio and have been a presenter at Nerve for the last three years, and I was also Head of Music on the committee for two years. I've also been a Student Ambassador for about a year and a half, happy to help with any questions or concerns you may have! -
kelsie
Bournemouth UniversityBSc (Hons) Forensic InvestigationI'm a third year forensic investigation student from Leicestershire. My hobbies include crocheting, reading, scrapbooking and listening to music! I'm also part of the BU kpop society! -
Sacha
University of PlymouthBSc (Hons) Environmental Management and SustainabilityI am in the final year of my degree (BSc Environmental Management and Sustainability with a placement year)! After spending four years at university, my plan for after graduation is to volunteer abroad on projects contributing towards sustainable development. During my time at the university, I have been an active member of a sports club, a course rep and a subject-specific student ambassador.
Bristol
Tucked between Somerset and Gloucestershire, many forget that Bristol is both a city – known for its alternative and creative culture – and its own county.
Well connected to Wales, Cornwall, London and Birmingham, Bristol combines plenty of styles, architecture and music – plus the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge over Avon Gorge.
Cornwall
With over 300 miles of coastline, you'll be dazzled by Cornwall’s magnificent beaches, dramatic cliffs, winding roads and Bronze Age remains.
Once you’ve worked up an appetite on the waves or in the hills, there are plenty of tasty local treats too – from Cornish pasties, to fudge and ice cream.
Devon
Life moves at a gentle pace in most of these parts, with small seaside towns scattered across its two delightful coastlines.
Meanwhile, its two biggest cities, Plymouth and Exeter, have all the bustle, nightlife and shopping you could want.
Dorset
Just under half of Dorset is designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, while the captivating Jurassic Coast is England’s only natural UNESCO World Heritage Site, stretching almost 100 miles.
It’s no wonder Dorset has inspired authors, filmmakers, and tourists alike – with Bournemouth a popular destination for students and beach enthusiasts.
Gloucestershire
Many consider Gloucestershire to offer the quintessential English experience. You'll find Cheltenham’s rows of white regency architecture, Gloucester's splendid Cathedral and docks, and many a cute village in The Cotswolds, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
A big festival county – including Cheltenham's world-famous Literature, Science and Jazz Festivals – Gloucestershire's also home to the intelligence agency, GCHQ.
Somerset
Largely rural, with a small population for its size, Somerset’s main centre is Bath – a popular student city and a UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its preserved Roman baths and Georgian architecture.
Plus, many believe Cadbury Castle to be the fabled Camelot of King Arthur.
Wiltshire
Rural Wiltshire has some intriguing landmarks, most notably the incredible Stonehenge. Attracting over a million visitors every year, the prehistoric monument has baffled experts.
Lesser known are Wiltshire’s White Horses, carved in the rolling hills across the county.
Chat to students
powered by
UCAS Media Service
-
Sophia
Bournemouth UniversityBSc (Hons) MidwiferyHi! I am an international Student from Minnesota in the States, I am studying midwifery. I love to travel, being outside and you can always catch me rollerskating by the beach. -
Lucy
University of PlymouthMSc Clinical PsychologyMy dream is to become a clinical psychologist. I have spent lots of time in Sierra Leone and I would love to move out there for a while in the future. I have experience working with children and adults with disabilities. I would love to continue into the future. -
Matthew
Bournemouth UniversityBSc (Hons) Information Technology ManagementHi! I am a second year student currently studying information technology management at Bournemouth University. I live only two hours away from Bournemouth in London, and I am enjoying a very different lifestyle down in this seaside town. I am more than happy to answer any questions you have about my course or just university life in general so please don't hesitate to send me a message! -
Ed
University of PlymouthLLB (Hons) LawI am currently a second year Law student at the University of Plymouth! From my degree to student life I cannot recommend Plymouth University enough, I have loved every moment so far! -
Kenzie-Jayne
University of PlymouthMA Human Resource ManagementI’m hoping to study a Business Master’s programme in the future and I’m not sure where I would I like my career to go yet! I’m from Cornwall and have a love for both spending my free time in the outdoors exploring the moors or shops and indoors reading or watching a film. -
Phoebe
University of PlymouthBEd (Hons) Primary (KS1/KS2 with QTS)After finishing my A-levels at small sixth form in 2019 (and a few gap years!), I started my university journey. It took me a long time to decide what path I wanted to take, so I very much relate to the uncertainty you might be feeling at this stage! I am from a very rural village in Cornwall, so naturally love the outdoors. So, for someone not used to urban living, Plymouth is a great in-between! It has so much to offer, including a balance between city and coastal life. I am now in my third (and final!) year of my BEd Primary Education degree, specialising in geography. After graduating in 2025, I hope to pursue a career in teaching and share my passion for educating for sustainability. -
Niamh
Bournemouth UniversityBSc (Hons) Adult NursingFinished my GCSEs and went straight to work. After that, I worked in a hospital to get experience. I didn't get my A levels so I went back to college to do the access course. Now I'm in my final year of nursing. -
Sharon
University of PlymouthMEng (Hons) RoboticsI am an international student born and raised in Qatar but is inherently Indian. I love how I have been exposed to different cultures and lifestyles living in a country that is different from where I'm from. Moving to Plymouth for university has been an exciting journey so far and I hope to make the most out of the years I intend to be here. Aside from academics, I love music, dance, art, watching a bunch of TV shows, movies and reading all kinds of genres! -
Emily
Bournemouth UniversityBA (Hons) Social WorkHi I'm Emily! I’m a third year Social Work Student, I’m passionate about social justice. Last year I was the choreographer of the ballet team so please feel free to ask any sports / societies related questions too! -
alex
Bournemouth UniversityBSc (Hons) Psychology with Forensic InvestigationI'm alex, I'm a final yaer psychology student, I run the psychology society and am a trustee at the student union as well as a research assistant and student ambassador at BU. On the weekend I play rugby and enjoy reading and playing music. -
Amelia
Bournemouth UniversityBSc (Hons) Children's and Young People's NursingHi! My name is Amelia, I’m a second year Children’s and Young People’s Nursing Student. I’m really enjoying the course and my nursing journey so far. Please feel free to message with any questions or queries you may have! -
Li
Bournemouth UniversityBSc (Hons) Software EngineeringHiya! I'm super passionate about my course and society, that I helped set-up and am the President of! So do feel free to ask anything about those or other uni / general questions, I'm all ears :) -
Elena
University of PlymouthBEng (Hons) Mechanical EngineeringHi! I'm Elena, I am a mature student (aged 31) studying Mechanical Engineering. I have a strong passion for art and design, so I love the fact that Mechanical Engineering can be really creative. My dream is to go into Engineering Design someday. I have a disability and I am a wheelchair user, but I don't let that stop me! -
Kirsty
Bournemouth UniversityBSc (Hons) PhysiotherapyHi, I'm Kirsty a third year physio student. I am looking toward working within the NHS and the placements at uni have definitely helped me think yeah this is the right course for me. I've always had a dream of doing physio but got to uni worried it was just something I was caught up on. However, after 1st year I 100% knew that this was the course I wanted to do in the future and there are so many routes to go down! Please do ask me any questions about the course or life at uni, I'll be happy to answer! -
Maria
University of PlymouthBSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy (Full-time)I am in my second year of Occupational therapy (BSc Hons) at the University of Plymouth. I came straight to uni from college, where I studied Sociology, Performing arts and Health and Social Care. When I qualify as an OT, I am interested in working in psychosocial settings and with children. -
Tia
Bournemouth UniversityBSc (Hons) GeographyHi I am Tia, a second year Geography student. Before coming to University I decided to take a gap year. I love nature, spending time outdoors and exploring! In my spare time at University I enjoy exploring the area and travelling along the coast! If you need any tips on day trips just let me know!😊 If you have any questions about studying Geography or just University life in general drop me a message. -
Kiya
Bournemouth UniversityBA (Hons) Computer Animation Art and DesignHello! I'm Kiya, a student ambassador for Bournemouth University, studying Animation. Our course here is strongly focused on 3D animation, which allows us to explore industry-standard tools and techniques. While we don’t have a specific 2D animation unit, life drawing is a key part of the curriculum and really helps to develop an understanding of movement and anatomy—skills that are critical in both 2D and 3D animation. I’ve always been fascinated by the way animation brings stories to life, whether it’s through films, musicals, or even video games. I’m especially inspired by movies like *Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse* for its incredible use of both 2D and 3D animation, and musicals like "back to the future the musical" which bring so much color and energy to storytelling along side film techniques on stage . Those influences really shape my creative process, and I often find myself blending styles from different mediums in my personal projects. BU has given me a solid foundation in 3D animation through software like Maya and Unreal Engine, but what really excites me is how the course encourages us to think creatively and find our own artistic voice. It’s not just about the technical skills; it’s about how you tell a story visually and emotionally. If you have any questions about the Animation course, BU, or why bournemouth is such a good place for animation students, feel free to reach out. I’m always happy to share my experience and passion for animation! -
Hannah
Bournemouth UniversityMA Multimedia JournalismHi I'm Hannah and I've just graduated from BA (Hons) TV Production at Bournemouth Uni. I am now a Masters student studying Multimedia Journalism with aspirations to be a music and entertainment reporter/presenter. I love music and radio and have been a presenter at Nerve for the last three years, and I was also Head of Music on the committee for two years. I've also been a Student Ambassador for about a year and a half, happy to help with any questions or concerns you may have! -
kelsie
Bournemouth UniversityBSc (Hons) Forensic InvestigationI'm a third year forensic investigation student from Leicestershire. My hobbies include crocheting, reading, scrapbooking and listening to music! I'm also part of the BU kpop society! -
Sacha
University of PlymouthBSc (Hons) Environmental Management and SustainabilityI am in the final year of my degree (BSc Environmental Management and Sustainability with a placement year)! After spending four years at university, my plan for after graduation is to volunteer abroad on projects contributing towards sustainable development. During my time at the university, I have been an active member of a sports club, a course rep and a subject-specific student ambassador.