Academic Excellence

Overview

Birmingham's education, training and research facilities are second to none. There are three universities in Birmingham with a total student population of over 63,000, and a further six universities within a one hour drive of Birmingham city centre.

With a century's tradition of inspiration and innovation, the University of Birmingham is one of the major centres of academic research in the UK.  Now with around 27,000 students, 6,000 staff and an annual turnover approaching £300 million, the University is a net importer of talent to the region, with around 40% of its graduates choosing to make their career in the region.  Birmingham's strengths lie in almost every area of academic endeavour, from bio and nanotechnology, space science and medical research to the humanities, law, business, public policy, European and defence studies. The University is also home to the Barber Institute of Fine Arts, one of the world's finest, small art galleries as well as to the botanic garden at Winterbourne, a Jeckyll inspired garden and home to the UK's official garden of the History of the Rose.

Aston University has opened its new £8 million Aston Academy of Life Sciences (AALS), a uniquely equipped medical facility offering diagnostic and surgical services for eye care and brain imaging in a research-led environment facility. It will build on Aston's grade 5 rated Neurosciences Research Institute. Through Aston's Business Partnership Unit, the AALS will provide a platform for the development of patents, license opportunities and new spin-out companies. This will result in income generating opportunities and enhanced employment potential within the West Midlands.

The recently opened College of Law in Birmingham is the first all-purpose law school to be built in the UK for 20 years. The 45,000 square foot building represents a £7 million investment by the College and will consolidate its position as the nationwide provider of legal training.  It first opened its doors to 300 students in September 2001 and has welcomed nearly 600 full-time and 300 part-time students for the 2003/04 academic year.

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