Welcome to Derby, More Than Just a Dot on the Map
You’ve probably heard of London, maybe Manchester too. But Derby? That’s the UK’s best-kept student secret.
Nestled in the heart of the East Midlands, Derby is a city that knows how to blend history with hustle. It’s compact but serious about progress. You’ll find scenic parks, stately cathedrals, and cobbled squares just minutes from modern, industrial centres and a cutting-edge university campus. Bonus? It’s one of the UK’s safest cities and holds a strong sense of community, ideal for those flying solo for the first time.
It’s also an engineering and tech magnet, with links to global giants like Rolls-Royce, Toyota, and Bombardier. Translation? Great internship and graduate job potential.
Plus, the Peak District is practically in your backyard.
Everything you need, education, lifestyle, culture, and cost-efficiency, has found a pocket-sized home in Derby. And once you arrive, you’ll see why thousands choose to study in Derby every year.
Why International Students Are Choosing to Study in Derby
There’s something refreshingly real about Derby. It doesn’t try too hard, it just delivers.
If you’re an international student, relocating is a big decision. But Derby gets it. First up, the University of Derby ranks among the UK’s top modern universities (The Guardian University Guide 2024). It’s known for its focus on employability, innovation, and support for international students. Over 1,700 international students from more than 100 countries currently call it home.
That’s not a coincidence.
The university boasts accredited degrees, industry-linked curriculum, and heavily-invested teaching facilities, especially in health, business, fashion, and engineering. Whether you’re in the lab or a work placement program, you’re building real skills with real-world value.
Then, there’s the cost of living. Let’s talk facts. Derby’s average monthly rent for students is 30% lower than in London. You’re spending less, but not missing out. From affordable student housing options to free access to stunning countryside for weekend hikes, Derby keeps things balanced.
Also: connectivity is key. Derby sits smack in the middle of England. Trains to London? Under 90 minutes. Quick trips to Nottingham, Birmingham, or Manchester? Totally doable.
Diverse, affordable, welcoming, and career-oriented, if you’re looking to study in Derby, you’re setting yourself up for something bigger.
Top 10 Universities and Colleges in Derby
While Derby may be a smaller city, its educational offering is huge in quality. Here’s a breakdown of where your academic dreams might take shape:
1. University of Derby
The city’s academic crown jewel. Known for innovation-led courses in business, nursing, computing, and the arts. Offers high-end facilities like a mock hospital ward, forensic house, and virtual reality labs.
2. Derby College Group
One of the largest colleges in the UK. A-levels, apprenticeships, vocational and access courses built for future university study or direct job entry, DCG is a solid stepping stone.
3. Buxton & Leek College (affiliated with University of Derby)
Ideal for those exploring hospitality, tourism, and spa management. Based just outside Derby but academically linked, giving students access to university resources.
4. Confetti Institute of Creative Technologies (Nottingham-based, Derby presence)
A creative haven for music tech, game design, and media production. Partners with Nottingham Trent University, worth watching if arts are your thing.
5. London School of Science and Technology – Derby Campus
Private college offering business, computing, and health courses. Appeals to mature and international students looking for flexible study routes.
6. UK College of Business and Computing – Derby Centre
This college caters to international students focusing on practical business programs and flexible learning.
7. Derby Language School
Perfect for international students needing English language support or IELTS prep. Small class sizes and strong tutor engagement.
8. Babington College, Derby Campus
Private training provider offering vocational qualifications in finance, HR, and project management. Especially good for postgraduate professionals.
9. St. Benedict Catholic Academy – Sixth Form
Focused on academic progression. A popular choice for international students entering at school-leaver level.
10. Merrill Academy
Secondary and sixth form school offering BTECs and pathways for vocational and academic advancement.
Top 10 Student Accommodation Properties in Derby
Finding a good place to live is crucial. These popular student properties tick all the right boxes, comfort, proximity, amenities, and vibes.
- Cathedral Court
- The Croft Derby
- University of Derby Halls (Darley Bank, Peak Court, Nunnery Court)
- Abbey Lodge Student Village
- Brookside
- Cathedral Heights
- Standard Court
- Student Castle Studios
- The Mills, Brook Street
- Agard Court
Top 10 Student Areas in Derby (With Nearby Uni & Housing Tips)
Location matters, a lot. Here’s where students settle, relax, explore, and yes, sometimes party.
1. City Centre
Uni Nearby: University of Derby
Student Properties: The Croft, Cathedral Court
The go-to area for most students. You’re steps from cafes, groceries, pubs, and bus stops. Ideal if you love the city beat.
2. Kedleston Road
Uni Nearby: Main University of Derby Campus
Student Properties: Darley Bank, Abbey Lodge
Only a 10-minute walk to class. Lush green settings give it a chill, campus vibe.
3. Allestree
Uni Nearby: University of Derby
Student Properties: Mostly private houses and shared flats
Calmer, residential, and a favourite among postgrads or nursing students.
4. Normanton
Uni Nearby: ~15 minutes to campus by bus
Student Properties: Budget-friendly shared housing
Lively multicultural atmosphere with great food spots. Cheaper rents make it a student magnet.
5. Darley
Uni Nearby: Close to campus and city centre
Student Properties: Darley Park student homes
Gorgeous green spaces and riverside walks. Perfect for nature lovers.
6. Mickleover
Uni Nearby: Ideal for those with placements at Royal Derby Hospital
Student Properties: Limited student Digs, more private lets
Quieter and suburban. Preferred by nursing and med students.
7. Burton Road
Uni Nearby: ~10-minute bus to Uni
Student Properties: Agard Court
Street full of life, cheap eateries, supermarkets, and late-night takeaways. Can’t go wrong.
8. Litchurch
Uni Nearby: Between city and hospital campus
Student Properties: Smaller private housing options
Great for focused students who want a blend of access and distance.
9. Little Chester (Chester Green)
Uni Nearby: ~15-20 mins to Uni
Student Properties: Private rooms and flats
History meets peace. Quieter area with charm and riverside jogging paths.
10. Peartree
Uni Nearby: South Derby
Student Properties: Affordable shared accommodations
Popular for tight budgets and well-connected via bus routes.
Cost of Living for Students in Derby
Living in Derby won’t break the bank, and that’s a major win.
Let’s crunch some numbers:
🧾 Average Monthly Student Budget in Derby:
- Rent: £400–£700 (en-suite to studio)
- Utilities & WiFi: £50–£90 (or included in rent)
- Groceries: £100–£150
- Transport: £35–£50 (student bus passes available)
- Social life & leisure: £80–£120
- Miscellaneous: £40 or so
👉 Total Estimation: £800–£1,100 per month
Compared to bigger UK cities, that’s seriously decent. Especially when you consider many student accommodations here are all-inclusive. No hidden heating bills in January.
Pro tip: cook at home, buy a student railcard, and squad up in shared flats to save more.
Bonus? The city offers student discounts at gyms, cafes, and retail outlets.
Quick Recap: Why Studying in Derby is Totally Worth It
To sum it up, Derby is a gem for international students. With top-tier education from the University of Derby, budget-friendly living, and unbeatable access to career opportunities in aerospace, healthcare, and business, it delivers on all fronts.
Living here keeps your daily stress low and your future career options wide open. Whether you’re walking to lectures through the city centre or catching a train to explore the UK, your experience while studying in Derby will be uniquely balanced, enriching, and completely unforgettable.
The city? Underrated. But for students, it’s borderline perfect.
Top 10 FAQs About Studying in Derby
1. Is Derby good for international students?
Yes! It offers affordable living, strong academic support, and a diverse international community.
2. How much does it cost to live as a student in Derby?
On average, students spend between £800–£1,100 per month, including rent, food, and transport.
3. Is the University of Derby a good university?
Definitely. It ranks high for student satisfaction and boasts strong employability-focused programs.
4. Can I work part-time while studying in Derby?
Yes. Most international students on a visa can work up to 20 hours per week during term-time.
5. What’s the best area to live for University of Derby students?
Kedleston Road, City Centre, and Darley are top choices due to proximity and housing options.
6. Is it easy to find student accommodation in Derby?
Yes. There are many student-specific housing options and prices are generally lower than in bigger UK cities.
7. How do I travel around Derby?
Buses are reliable and discounted for students. The city is also walkable and bike-friendly.
8. Are there scholarships for international students?
Yes, the University of Derby offers multiple scholarships based on merit and region.
9. How safe is Derby for students?
Very safe. It ranks among the safest student cities in the UK.
10. When should I apply for accommodation in Derby?
Ideally 5–6 months in advance, especially for university halls or popular private residences.
