University of Bristol

Bristol  United Kingdom

Since Bristol was founded in 1876, we’ve had a reputation for doing things a little differently. Bristol was the first institute of higher education in the UK to admit women on an equal basis with men. More recently, in 2019, we became the first UK university to declare a climate emergency. Bristol is one of the top ten universities in the UK (QS World University Rankings 2026). We’re a member of the Russell Group of UK research-intensive universities and one of the country's top five for research (THE analysis of REF 2021). We welcome students and staff from over 140 countries, creating an exciting and diverse community with 33% of our students being international.

Why study at the University of Bristol?

Learn from internationally renowned academics and join a collaborative community of students from diverse backgrounds and disciplines.

The University’s network of industry connections, collaborative partnerships and Careers Service staff support students' professional development in their chosen fields and industries.

Known for its architecture, art, activism and vibrant cultural scene, the city of Bristol provides an inspiring background for academic and personal growth.

7,570

postgraduate students

163

courses

51st

in the world – QS World University Rankings 2026

Bristol  United Kingdom

main campus

Environmental Sciences (13) Politics & Government (30) Computer Science (8) Engineering (12) Business & Management (5) Geography (17) Biological Sciences (4) Forensic & Archaeological Sciences (16) Geology (18) Communication & Media Studies (7) Mathematics (25) Sociology (33) Physics (29) Chemistry (6) Finance (14) Information Services (20) Creative Arts & Design (9) Languages, Literature & Culture (21) Philosophy (28) Psychology (31) Economics (10) History & Archaeology (19) Anthropology (2) Education (11) Medicine (26) Social Work (32) Linguistics & Classics (23) Law (22) Nursing & Health (27) Veterinary Sciences (35) Agriculture (1)

About the University of Bristol

The University's outstanding reputation makes our students highly attractive to employers. Bristol is ranked 11th in the UK for employment outcomes (QS World University Rankings 2026).

A postgraduate degree from Bristol can equip you with the skills and experience to help you go further in your professional field. Our strong industry connections mean you’ll be well prepared for your future career. The Careers Service offers expert advice and events specifically for postgraduates.

The University is continually investing in facilities and technology for our students, including the Global Lounge, a purpose-made cultural hub on campus where students can connect and learn from each other. In recent years we have committed around £700 million to campus development projects, including the new Temple Quarter Enterprise Campus. These ambitious plans will transform our campuses, buildings, and facilities and enhance your university experience.



Our university is at the heart of Bristol, a historic, lively and green city in the south-west of England. Bristol is less than two hours from London, while also being close to beautiful countryside in Somerset, Devon, and Wales. With a lively arts and music scene, sustainable credentials and a thriving modern economy, Bristol is the perfect place for postgraduate study.

From self-catered accommodation to families and couples housing, you can browse our postgraduate accommodation page page to see the full range of accommodation we have available. We also provide advice and resources for students needing support with private rented housing.

There are lots of opportunities to maintain an active lifestyle at Bristol. The University is home to an extensive range of sports facilities on campus, including a swimming pool, large multipurpose sports hall and well-equipped gym. The Students' Union oversees 60 sport and health clubs.

Wellbeing and support are key to the University’s offer. Bristol is one of only two universities in the UK to offer a full NHS GP practice on site through the Student Health Service. There is also specialised support offered through Disability Services, Student Counselling and the Multifaith Chaplaincy.



“The University of Bristol is ranked among the top 10 universities in the UK, making it a strong academic choice.

I have the opportunity to study units that interest me, such as International Corporate Finance. The seminars allow me to communicate, share ideas, and exchange cultures with international friends.

Building friendships and networking with peers, professors, and professionals, along with the experience of studying abroad, broadens my perspective and prepares me for a global career.”

Joining the University of Bristol for my postgraduate degree was a significant transition. However, the incredible support from my personal tutor and lecturers made the steep learning curve manageable. My perspective has been profoundly challenged and expanded, and I feel very empowered to make a meaningful impact with the knowledge and skills I have acquired from this esteemed university.

I chose to study at the University of Bristol because of its excellent reputation and the strong academic content of my program. The MSc Economics & Finance course is well-regarded and offers a comprehensive curriculum that aligns perfectly with my career goals. Additionally, the University's strong research focus and ranking among the top universities in the UK impressed me. The vibrant campus life and the support services for international students also played a big part in my decision. Overall, it seemed like the perfect place to further my education and build my future.


Each programme prospectus page includes information about entry requirements, programme structure, fees and funding, and how to apply. Most of our postgraduate taught programmes have an on-demand talk where you can hear directly from an academic and gain deeper insight into your chosen programme.

We offer a number of awards, bursaries and scholarships  to postgraduates, designed to help students finance their studies. 

To find out more, use our online funding search tool. Your eligibility will depend on many factors including your home country. Our Student Finances team has further information about funding postgraduate study. 

Please check the eligibility of the specific scholarship you want to apply for to establish what the criteria are.

Most taught programmes at Bristol lead to a master’s qualification. These programmes typically last one year full-time or two years part-time. In some subject areas, you will be able to study for a postgraduate diploma or certificate. We also offer some online distance learning programmes which fit around your work, life and other commitments, from wherever you are in the world.

Different programmes require different levels of language skills. We refer to these skill levels as ‘profiles’. You will need to achieve one of the qualifications listed for the programme you are interested in, but you do not need to have reached the required level before you apply. Each programme prospectus page lists the relevant English language profile requirements in the ‘Entry requirements’ section.

You can apply directly through the University of Bristol website.

Many of our programmes have fixed deadlines. Please check the application deadline for the programme you are interested in as closing dates vary. There is guidance on how to submit supporting documents including references on our webpages.


Register your interest with the University of Bristol


Main campus

University of Bristol

Bristol

South West

United Kingdom