What’s it like to study a Masters in Ipswich?
Ipswich’s roots date back to the Roman era, but the town began to take shape during the Anglo-Saxon period, when Ipswich prospered from trade with Europe. The town became famous for its pottery and cloth industries, eventually entering into a relationship with the Hanseatic League, a commercial alliance in Northern Europe. In the 17th century, Ipswich was a significant point of departure for emigrants to New England, lending its name to the town of Ipswich in Massachusetts.
Cultural highlights in Ipswich include the New Wolsey Theatre – named for Cardinal Thomas Wolsey, advisor to King Henry VIII and one of Ipswich’s most famous sons. The Tudor-era Christchurch Mansion is also worth a visit, housing the largest collection of John Constable and Thomas Gainsborough paintings outside of London. It’s based in the picturesque Christchurch Park, a 70-acre green space near to the centre of town.
Ipswich also has a proud sporting heritage in the form of Ipswich Town FC, who have enjoyed European success and count the legendary Alf Ramsay and Bobby Robson among their former managers. The Tractor Boys, as they’re affectionally known, enjoy a feisty rivalry with Norfolk neighbours Norwich City; matches between the two clubs are known as the ‘Old Farm Derby’.
Universities in Ipswich
The University of Suffolk has its headquarters in Ipswich, although additional colleges can be found in Lowestoft, Bury St Edmunds and Great Yarmouth. The Ipswich campus is located on the Ipswich Waterfront, a recently redeveloped part of town with lots of bars and restaurants.
A wide selection of postgraduate programmes is offered at the University of Suffolk, including PGCEs, MBAs, MAs and MScs.
Careers in Ipswich
Historically an agricultural town, Ipswich now has a diverse, service-based economy with several insurance and finance businesses based in the area. Ipswich is also relatively close to London – just over an hour away by train – so many people commute to the city for work.
Although Ipswich is no longer a major port, nearby Felixstowe is the busiest in the UK (and one of the busiest in Europe).