Why Study at Harper Adams University?

Harper Adams University, established in 1901 in Shropshire, England, is an English university specialising in agriculture and farming education. It offers over 50 foundation, undergraduate, and postgraduate programmes to students from over 30 countries. The 550-hectare campus includes a working farm, Bamford Library, Postgraduate and Professional Development Centre, and specialised centres for crop and farm education.

Undergraduate courses at Harper Adams span 11 departments, including agriculture, animal sciences, and engineering. The university is renowned for soil and water management research, crop disease resistance, and agricultural technology.

Learn more below about why you should consider studying at Harper Adams. To apply or have any further questions answered, arrange a free consultation today.

Why Choose Harper Adams University?

1. Rankings and awards

Harper Adams University is among the UK’s most popular institutes and has earned significant recognition in various academic and student satisfaction rankings. The below table shows its achievements in the latest rankings and awards.

Category	Achievement
Modern University Ranking 2025	Second-highest in the UK, top three in the West Midlands
Student Satisfaction (NSS 2022)	Top 5 in the UK
Research Quality (REF 2021)	60% internationally excellent or world-leading
Graduate Employment (Graduate Outcomes 2022)	97.4% for full-time, first-degree graduates
Job Prospects	No. 1 in the UK (2016-2020, 2022-2023)
Overall UK University Ranking	Top 30 (The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide)
Specialist University Recognition	Officially world-leading by the Office for Students (OfS)

2. Wide-ranging courses

Harper Adams University offers a wide range of courses across various disciplines to cater to diverse interests and career aspirations. In the physical sciences, students can study agriculture, farming, environment, earth, and marine sciences, providing a solid foundation in understanding the natural world. 

Life sciences courses at HAU include biological sciences, agriculture and forestry, and veterinary science. These courses equip students with the knowledge to excel in fields related to living organisms and their environments. 

Engineering and technology courses like mechanical and aerospace engineering offer rigorous training in innovative and practical engineering principles. In addition, the Business & Economics department offers business and management courses, preparing students for different roles in the corporate world. 

3. Student Union

The Harper Adams Students’ Union (HASU) is an independent charity run by students for students, working closely with the University to enhance students’ experience. HASU advocates for students, helps develop academic provisions, and addresses key issues. It supports numerous clubs and societies, from sports to online gaming. Entertainment includes The Welly Pub and The Barn nightclub events, UK trips, and themed balls. HASU has improved campus facilities by installing a free cash machine and expanding the student bar. The union also offers branded merchandise through an on-site shop and online store, striving to improve student life continuously.

4. Facilities

The buildings and teaching facilities at Harper Adams University are designed to enhance student learning and support. The historic Main Building, built in 1900, now houses support functions like the Exams Office and Estates and Facilities department. The modern Weston Building offers state-of-the-art teaching spaces and social areas.

The Faccenda Student Centre is a vital hub with services like the Students’ Union and Careers Service. Bamford Library provides essential resources and knowledgeable staff to support student learning. Additionally, various classrooms and learning hubs are conveniently located near accommodations, and vibrant staff hubs are spread across key campus locations, including Queen Mother Hall.

5. University Library

Bamford Library, centrally located on campus, is a modern, eco-friendly facility that supports student learning. It features a computer-controlled natural ventilation system and automatic lighting that adjusts to outdoor light levels, enhancing its environmental sustainability. The library houses the Engineering Design Centre (EDC) and Kaldi Café, offering a comprehensive range of resources, including around 41,000 books, 1,250 print and electronic journals, and various online databases. 

The library provides diverse study facilities like group and silent study rooms. First-year students receive sessions on resource use, and final-year students receive refresher courses to assist with dissertations. Staff at the enquiry desk are available to help with information retrieval and using electronic resources.

6. Student support services

Harper Adams University offers a comprehensive support system to ensure students feel happy and successful. The Faccenda Student Centre houses the friendly Student Services team and Students’ Union, assisting with accommodation, finances, careers, health, and support for international students and those with disabilities or learning difficulties.

• Emergency Support: Emergency contact numbers, out-of-hours contacts, and a system for reporting faults on campus are available.
• Academic and IT Support: Students receive help with learning and study skills, specialist dyslexia support, and IT issues, including Wi-Fi, printing, and email.
• Health and Wellbeing: The university provides access to GP and dental services, counselling, mental health support, and general well-being assistance.
• Financial and Spiritual Support: Financial aid is available through the Access to Learning Fund, Disabled Students’ Allowances, and more. Spiritual support is offered through the university chaplaincy and local places of worship.

7. Employability prospects

Harper Adams University has an outstanding graduate employment rate, attributed to the placement year included in all degree courses, industry-geared content, and robust relationships with over 700 businesses. From the start, students engage in academic and practical projects, developing ideas and gaining hands-on experience. The placement year allows students to test their ideas in real-world settings, gaining essential skills employers value, such as decision-making, money management, and initiative.

Students return from placements more confident, focused, and ready for their final year and career path. Placement managers assist in finding suitable roles, working with hundreds of UK and international employers. Many students secure jobs post-graduation due to their impressive performance during placements.

8. Great accommodation options

The residence halls at Harper Adams University are conveniently located close to each other. Each hall provides unique features and amenities.

Support

Every hall has two final-year student life reps (SLRs) who assist residents. With 15 SLRs on an overnight call rota and residence officers on hand, students have support available in emergencies. Additionally, on-campus Student Services Staff and 24/7 security ensure a safe environment.

Security

The rural setting enhances safety with 24-hour security, campus-wide CCTV, and card entry systems. The community promotes a sense of security, such as a large Neighbourhood Watch scheme.

Socialising

Halls of residence are social hubs where lifelong friendships begin. The campus offers buzzing cafes, bars, clubs, societies, sports, and an active Students’ Union.

Convenience

The campus layout ensures that all facilities, including the library, lecture halls, and Students’ Union, are within a five-minute walk.

On-Campus Accommodation Features

• Three meals a day (Monday to Friday, except for self-catered rooms)
• Regular cleaning service
• Wireless internet
• Free on-campus parking and cycle racks
• Mixed and single-sex residences
• Designated accommodation for students under 18
• 24-hour security, including an entry card system and CCTV
• Heating and electricity

Study at Harper Adams University

If you would like to learn more about studying at Harper Adams, arrange a free consultation with SI-UK today.

Contact SI-UK about your application

FAQ

What is the acceptance rate for Harper Adams University?

Harper Adams University’s acceptance rate is 96%.

What is the employment rate at Harper Adams University?

Harper Adams University has an impressive employment rate of 97.4% for full-time, first-degree graduates, as reported in the Graduate Outcomes 2022.

What is Harper Adams University’s student satisfaction rate?

According to the National Student Survey (NSS) 2022, Harper Adams University is ranked among the top five in the UK for student satisfaction.

What are the facilities for students at Harper Adams University?

The university offers numerous facilities, including:

• Bamford Library
• Postgraduate and Professional Development Centre
• Frank Parkinson Farm Education Centre
• Frontier’s Crop Centre
• Various cafes and dining options such as Graze Cafe, Kaldi Cafe, Pam’s Pantry, The Feed Store, The Welly Inn, Main Bar, and the Conference Dining Hall
• Extensive sports clubs and facilities
• Social and recreational venues like The Welly Inn and the on-campus nightclub, The Barn

Does Harper Adams University have accommodation?

Harper Adams University offers on-campus accommodation. The residence halls provide various amenities and support services, including final-year student life reps (SLRs), regular cleaning services, wireless internet, and 24-hour security. Various accommodation options cater to different needs, including designated areas for students under 18.