Get Ready Guide 2015

guide for new students 2015

THERE’S MORE ONLINE

Log into studentcentral.brighton.ac.ukRead our advice especially for students starting this September. From Thursday 20 August you can enrol online, then you’ll be able to check important dates and find out more about your course.

Like our Facebook page. Keep in touch with what is going on at the university. www.facebook.com/universityofbrighton

Visit www.brighton.ac.uk/newstudent for an overview of the things you should do before you arrive, important dates and maps and directions to help you get here. Your family and friends, who won’t have access to studentcentral, can find out about university life here.

Follow us on Twitter. www.twitter.com/uniofbrighton

Before you get here 02–09

Your course 10

Your first week 11–12

Your student life 13

Your career 14

Brighton Students’ Union 15

Once you are here … 16

Campus maps 17–23 Sussex area 17 Brighton area 18 Moulsecoomb campus 19 Grand Parade campus 20 Falmer campus 21 Eastbourne campus 22 Hastings campus 23 Useful contacts 24–25 Your complete checklist Back cover

Everything is easier than it seems and you are not on your own. Everyone feels just as anxious about starting university but you are not thrown in at the deep end. Despite everyone telling you how independent you have to be, you always have help available.

University of Brighton, first year student.

studentcentral.brighton.ac.uk

In just a few weeks you will be starting your course with us. Going to university can involve all kinds of change and during your first few weeks you are likely to be very busy adjusting to your new situation. There are lots of things that you can do before you get here to prepare for university and make sure your time with us gets off to the best possible start.

Please take the time to read this guide. It includes important information about the things you need to do before you get here. These include completing stage 1 online enrolment, what to expect during your first week (including stage 2 in-person enrolment and your course induction), and details about life at university and the support and services we provide.

studentcentral.brighton.ac.uk 01

VICE-CHANCELLOR’S WELCOME

I am delighted that you have chosen to study at the University of Brighton.

Students at the University of Brighton are part of a creative and enterprising international academic community, constantly learning, experimenting and innovating. It is a community that will value you, your experience and personal perspective and will support you throughout your course and into your chosen career.

We take pride in the broad range of our courses and our extensive partnerships with professional associations and accrediting bodies, which guarantee the relevance and quality of our awards.

The university is based on campuses in Brighton, Eastbourne and Hastings. The city of Brighton & Hove and the towns of Eastbourne and Hastings offer excellent sporting, cultural and social opportunities which I hope you will enjoy.

The Students’ Union organises entertainment and sporting activities and manages a range of clubs and societies as well as voluntary work with which you can become involved.

I join with all my colleagues in welcoming you to the University of Brighton. You can be sure we will do everything we can to help you get the best from your chosen course of study.

Professor Julian CramptonVice-Chancellor

ACCOMMODATION £ Apply for halls up until Saturday 8

August

SOME OF YOU WILL ALSO NEED TO...

£ Book a place on international orientation (international and European students).

£ Arrange childcare and funding £ Apply for Disabled Student Allowance

(DSA). £ Check your vaccinations are up to date.

WHAT YOU CAN DO FROM 13 AUGUST

£ If you are getting your A-level results today, you can confirm your place with us.

£ Meet other students on your campus Facebook group – we’ll invite you.

02 studentcentral.brighton.ac.uk

BEFORE YOU GET HERE

Before you get here it is essential that you complete stage 1 online enrolment and upload a photograph for your UniCard. Just follow the simple steps outlined below and read our advice about other things to have in place before you arrive at university.

GETTING STARTED

Your university user accountYou will probably have activated this already when you applied for a place here, to get into the applicant area on studentcentral. Your username is usually your initials and two or three numbers eg js123. Keep your password safe and don’t share it with anyone.

Activate your university user account If you have already used studentcentral you have completed this step. If you haven’t, follow these simple instructions.• Visit https://activate.brighton.ac.uk and

follow the instructions. • You will be asked for your University of

Brighton student number, which you will find in your welcome email and on your offer letter and offer email.

• Write down your new username and password when they are displayed because you will not get an email reminder.

WAIT 15 MINUTES for your account to be activated.

Logging into studentcentral Studentcentral is the university’s online learning environment – throughout your time at Brighton you will use studentcentral to manage your studies and access the academic and other resources you need, from wherever you have internet access.

Once you have logged in you will be able to see the New Student Area. Here you will find information to help you get ready for life as a University of Brighton student. From Thursday 20 August you can enrol online through studentcentral and then you’ll be able to see information about your course, events on offer during your first week, your school’s induction events and much more.

Updates are added frequently, so make sure you log in regularly.

WHAT YOU SHOULD DO NOW

GETTING STARTED £ Activate your university user account

If you haven’t already, you need to activate your university user account – this will provide you with your university username and password for studentcentral.

£ Log into studentcentral to read advice for students starting in September.

£ Upload your university photo.

FINANCE £ Make or update your student finance

application (UK and EU students only). £ Work out a budget. £ Open a bank account.


£ Log into studentcentral where you can complete stage 1 online enrolment.

The morning after online enrolment you can log into studentcentral where you can:

£ check your course details including your start date and term and semester dates

£ start using your university email account.

You can also: £ accept your accommodation offer

within seven days £ attend house hunting events £ buy your NUS extra card.


FINANCE

Open a bank accountYour student loan, maintenance grant or other funding will be paid into your bank account, so it makes sense to have an account organised before you arrive.

P Look for student accounts with benefits. P Remember to take ID and confirmation of student status – your acceptance letter or UniCard.

There are banking facilities on our Moulsecoomb campus and within walking distance of all our other campuses.

Student financeIf you are a UK or EU student studying an undergraduate course or PGCE, and you have not already done so, you should apply for student finance without delay. You need to advise student finance as soon as possible if your choice of university has changed since your original UCAS application.

For more information about student finance and loans visit www.gov.uk/student-finance.

If you are starting an NHS-funded course you should apply for financial support from NHS bursaries. For more information visit www.gov.uk/nhs-bursaries.

Take the time to read our funding and fees information and the advice we provide about managing your money.

If you’re a self-funded international student and require a visa to study here, you’ll need to pay a tuition fee deposit of £1,000 by Monday 31 August 2015. Your deposit must be paid before we can issue you with a CAS number.

www.brighton.ac.uk/money

Be prepared We recommend that you make sure you have sufficient funds in your bank account when you arrive to cover your rent, food, study, travel and entertainment costs for at least the first two weeks of term in case there are any delays in receiving your student finance.

Make a budgetPaying for your studies and your livingcosts may seem daunting at first, butorganising your student finance early andmaking a budget you can stick to willmake a big difference.

Support and adviceThere are hardship funds to help students in certain circumstances and we can help you access these if you are eligible. We offer one-to-one advice sessions at all campuses.

If you are concerned about your financial situation either before you arrive or once you are here, contact the Student Advice Service. Our service is confidential and non-judgemental.

www.brighton.ac.uk/moneymatters

Look out for… NUS extra card only costs £12 and it’ll get you discounts online and in store with over 160 retailers for a year.

Make a clear budget plan even before fresher’s week and search for local deals before you come as well.

University of Brighton first year student


INCOME OUTGOINGS

ACCOMMODATIONCheck out the accommodation options and price details at www.brighton.ac.uk/living-here.

HOUSEHOLD SUPPLIES AND TOILETRIES

HOUSEHOLD BILLS Internet, TV licence, water, gas, electricity, phone contract and council tax (not applicable if the housing is solely occupied by students).

MUSIC, FILM AND SOCIAL ACTIVITIES

CLOTHES AND SHOES

CONTENTS INSURANCEFactor this cost in if you live in private accommodation.

CREDIT CARD OR DEBT REPAYMENTS

BOOKS AND EQUIPMENT

HEALTHCAREDental treatment, glasses and contact lenses.

CHILDCARE

TRAVEL COSTS Transport to and from uni as well as visits home.

FOOD, LAUNDRY

STUDENT LOANSIf you are a full-time undergraduate student from the UK or EU, your student loans cover the cost of tuition and some of your living costs whilst you are studying.

GRANTS, BURSARIES, SPONSORSHIPS OR SCHOLARSHIPS YOU’RE ELIGIBLE FOR

MONEY FROM RELATIVES OR GUARDIANS

INCOME FROM A JOB

BENEFITS / TAX CREDIT

SAVINGS

BUDGET CHECKLIST

Budget while you are here – calculate your income and expenses and work out what your weekly or monthly income and outgoings are. Budgeting isn’t just about seeing how much money you will need to pay for your food, travel and rent – it’s a really good way of working out how much you can spend on things you enjoy.

DO THE NUMBERS ADD UP?

Income = same as or more than your outgoings – you’re successfully staying on budget!

Income = less than your outgoings – your money may not last until the end of term.Are there ways to cut back on your spending or increase your income (for example, a part-time job)?

For more advice on ways to manage your money visitwww.brighton.ac.uk/moneymatters.

ACCOMMODATION

Our accommodation teams in Brighton, Eastbourne and Hastings can give you advice on finding accommodation in the private rented sector, as well as managing the application and allocation processes for university halls of residence.

HALLS OF RESIDENCE

Go to www.brighton.ac.uk/accommodationpolicy to read our hallsallocation policy. If you have applied for halls we will contact you from Monday 17 August to let you know the decision on your application. We hope to let everyone know by the end of August.

If your application to halls is unsuccessful we’ll let you know by email as soon as possible after Monday 17 August to allow you time to find accommodation in the private sector. Don’t worry, there are others in the same boat as you and we have an excellent house hunting service to help you find a place to live.

If your application is successful, you can accept or decline the place using theaccommodation portal.

Log into the accommodation portal using your student number and accommodation account password. http://accommodation.brighton.ac.uk

Once you have accepted your offer of accommodation in halls you can complete your accommodation induction here too. This will give you important information, tells you what to bring with you and allows you to book your arrival time.

To accept your place you will need to pay your first rent instalment within seven days of us contacting you.

HALLS OF RESIDENCE £ Read our halls allocation policy. £ If you are eligible and you want to

apply for halls you need to do this by Saturday 8 August.

£ We’ll let you know the outcome of your halls application from Monday 17 August.

£ Pay the first rent instalment within seven days of us contacting you to secure your place in halls.

£ Join your halls Facebook group. £ Complete the accommodation online

induction, where you’ll be given an arrival time.

PRIVATE ACCOMMODATION £ Read our advice on looking for

accommodation in the private sector. £ Join the house hunting Facebook

group for your location. £ Check out www.brightonstudentpad.

co.uk. £ Attend a house hunting event.


ACCOMMODATION

Halls is a really good way to get to know people straight off the bat, and immerses you in what the social side of uni is about. It’s great for freshers!

Hatty Blow, Nursing (Adult) BSc(Hons) second year student

I joined a Facebook group specific to the halls I would be staying in. Through this I found three people that I am living with and this meant when we did meet the day I moved in, it was a lot less awkward and it was like we were already friends.


PRIVATE ACCOMMODATION

We run a successful house hunting service in the summer for students looking for accommodation in the private sector.

You can attend house hunting events in Brighton on the following dates: • Wednesday 26 August • Friday 28 August• Wednesday 2 September• Friday 4 September• Wednesday 9 September.

The dates are subject to change. Check the website for the latest information.

Hastings campus house hunting day is on Friday 28 August.

Eastbourne campus house hunting day is on Friday 4 September.

Check the website to confirm dates and book your place.

www.brighton.ac.uk/househunting

Our house hunting Facebook groups give you an opportunity to meet potential house mates so you can begin the search for private sector housing together.

www.brighton.ac.uk/newstudents/accommodation#renting

USE STUDENTPAD

You can use our online database to find private rented accommodation, rather than using commercial letting agents. www.brightonstudentpad.co.uk is an online student accommodation service for University of Brighton students providing advice about housing matters, as well as details of houses and flats available for rent in Brighton, Hastings and Eastbourne. The password to log in is election.

Every year hundreds of students find great places to live using this service.

For more information visit www.brighton.ac.uk/accommodation. [email protected].

HOUSE HUNTING GUIDE

Our house hunting guide provides advice about finding and renting property in the private sector, and is full of useful information to guide you through the process of choosing the right home. Makesure you read it before you start your accommodation search.

Download the house hunting guide at www.brighton.ac.uk/accommodation.

The house hunting event was a great opportunity to meet other new students in the same position as me – some of the people that I met at the event have become my best friends in the years since.

The information and guidance provided by the accommodation team meant that finding a house was much easier than doing it alone.

Joel Williams, Mechanical Engineering BEng(Hons) graduate

I used the message boards on www.brightonstudentpad.co.uk to form a house hunting group with four other girls.

We found houses on Studentpad. We arranged to look at six houses in Brighton, and agreed on one in the Hanover area. After talking it through with my parents I paid my first month’s rent and deposit (thanks student overdraft) in at my bank the next day.

My first year was amazing. I got to live close to campus, which was handy as I had loads to carry to university every day. The house was close to town so I didn’t have to pay for taxis home after a night out. The private sector can seem daunting, but there are lots of positives, including choosing where you live and who you live with.

Beki Gowing Textiles with Business Studies BA(Hons) graduate


BEFORE YOU GET HERE

I’m Jodie and I’m an international student adviser.

Our Student Advice Service provides high quality, free and confidential immigration advice to our applicants, students and their dependents.

Before you can begin your University of Brighton journey you need to complete a number of requirements, and that’s where I can help. It’s my job to help you apply for a visa to study in the UK and to provide you with advice and guidance throughout the immigration process.

We understand that your family may have lots of questions too; whether they’ve got questions about finance, visas or life in the UK, we’re here to help them understand what to expect.

We have many years of experience of providing immigration advice and have taken all of the necessary training in immigration law. We work to strict guidelines and procedures and are regulated by the Immigration Services Commissioner (OISC) so you can be confident and assured about the quality of the information and advice we provide to you.

www.brighton.ac.uk/immigration

STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES

We recommend you do the following as soon as possible so we can put in place any support you may need.

£ Declare a disability to the university. £ Apply for Disabled Students’

Allowance.

Most UK students with disabilities can apply for Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) which is designed to help meet any extra costs that may arise from your disability. Students who are not eligible for DSA will still be eligible for funded disability support.

£ Arrange a meeting with the Disability and Dyslexia Team.• Book an appointment. • Bring up-to-date evidence of your

disability either from a medical practitioner or an educational psychologist. We can help you to obtain this evidence if you do not already have it.

Your Learning Support Coordinator can also answer any questions that you may have.

Find out more – visit www.brighton.ac.uk/disability.

STUDENTS WITH CHILDREN

Apply for childcare There are two nurseries at the University of Brighton, based on the Moulsecoomb and Grand Parade campuses, providing high quality childcare to children of students, staff and the local community. Both have been recognised as ‘outstanding’ by Ofsted. Contact the manager of the nursery as soon as possible to check availability.

www.brighton.ac.uk/childcare

Remember to complete your application for childcare grant or allowance. For more information visit: www.gov.uk/childcare-grant or for NHS-funded students visit: www.gov.uk/nhs-bursaries.

INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS

Get ready for life in the UK To find out more about life, culture and customs in the UK and preparing for study at the University of Brighton visit www.brighton.ac.uk/international/prepare.

We offer a free orientation programme for international and EU students, which takes place on 22–25 September. It’s based in Brighton, with daytime events in Eastbourne and Hastings for students who will be studying there. It also includes a meet and greet service for students arriving at London’s Heathrow and Gatwick airports on Tuesday 22 September, and accommodation for the duration of the programme.

Orientation is designed to help our international and European students adapt to life in the UK and the University of Brighton as easily as possible. You will be able to see where you will be studying, find out about life in the UK, meet university staff, look for accommodation if necessary, and make new friends.

Find out more at www.brighton.ac.uk/orientation.

We also offer free academic English language support for students whose first language is not English.

Find out all about international support at www.brighton.ac.uk/international/support.


BEFORE YOU GET HERE

CONFIRM YOUR PLACE AT THE UNIVERSITY OF BRIGHTON

If you’re getting A-level results on Thursday 13 August, we’ll send you an email to confirm your place early that day. You can also visit www.brighton.ac.uk/confirmation from Thursday 13 August and enter your UCAS Personal ID (PID) number. You do not need to call us to confirm your place.

If you already have an unconditional place or if you are a postgraduate student, your place is already confirmed with us.

COMPLETE STAGE 1 ONLINE ENROLMENT

Once your place has been confirmed you will receive an email from us asking you to enrol online. This email will be sent out from Thursday 20 August when online enrolment opens.

It is essential that you complete this process before you arrive at the university so that you can see details about your course and for us to confirm that the details we hold about you are correct. You may need to provide us with missing information such as who will be paying your fees.

To complete online enrolment you need to have activated your university account (see page 02) and be logged on to studentcentral.

The morning after you have enrolled online, you will see new tabs on studentcentral: Home, Studies and Help and Advice. You’ll be able to see information about your course, events on offer during your first week, your school’s induction events and much more.

studentcentral.brighton.ac.uk

UPLOAD YOUR UNIVERSITY PHOTOGRAPH

Your university photograph will be used for your UniCard. It is essential that you upload your photograph before you arrive at the university as you will need your UniCard to:• get into your halls of residence• access buildings• access computers• borrow books from the library and other

resources.

You can upload money on to your UniCard to pay for food and drink from our cafes and restaurants, photocopying and items from our Students’ Union shops. It gives you discounts too so you can start saving money as soon as you get here.

TIP: Why not buy your NUS extra card at the same time (www.cards.nusextra.co.uk) – you can use the same photo for both and you can start saving money with the NUS extra discounts on travel and loads of other stuff too.

Log into studentcentral to upload your university photostudentcentral.brighton.ac.uk.

UNIVERSITY EMAIL ADDRESS

You will have access to your university email account and other Microsoft cloud services including your free copy of Office Pro Plus (word, excel and powerpoint) the morning after you have enrolled online.

It is essential that you start using your university email address before you get here and throughout your time as a student here, making sure you check your inbox regularly; otherwise you may miss important information and updates. If you are applying for placements or part-time employment your university email address is the one you should use.

CONFIRM THE START DATE OF YOUR COURSE ON STUDENTCENTRAL

The first day for most courses is Monday 28 September, but some of our courses have different start dates.

To confirm when the first day of your course is and other course-specific instructions, log into studentcentral and go to the Studies tab and click on My Course area where you’ll find key dates for your course.

The following courses have earlier start dates, but note this is not a complete list and you should check studentcentral to be sure of your course start date.

Brighton and Sussex Medical SchoolBrighton and Sussex Medical School students’ induction week starts with a MedSoc welcome on Sunday 13 September with Induction Week starting at 9.00am on Monday 14 September. PGCE (postgraduate teacher training)Starts on Monday 7 September. Postgraduate health coursesMost have earlier start dates – check studentcentral.

CHECK TERM AND SEMESTER DATES

Term dates 2015–2016AutumnMonday 28 September–Friday 11 December

SpringMonday 4 January–Friday 18 March

SummerMonday 11 April–Friday 10 June

Semester datesSemester 1Monday 5 October–Friday 5 February

Semester 2Monday 8 February–Friday 10 June

STAY HEALTHY, GET VACCINATED

Before you arrive read our health advice about mumps, measles and meningitis. Make sure your vaccinations are up to date, including the new Meningococcal ACWY (MenACWY) vaccination introduced for new university students. Students on some health courses require additional vaccinations – you will be contacted if this applies to you.


CONFIRM YOUR ACADEMIC SCHOOL AND CAMPUS

The University of Brighton is organised into academic schools, based on campuses in Brighton, Eastbourne and Hastings. Courses from a number of academic schools are taught on our Hastings campus.

Your course is based in one of the academic schools listed below:• Brighton and Sussex Medical School• Brighton Business School• School of Applied Social Science • School of Art, Design and Media• School of Computing, Engineering and

Mathematics• School of Education• School of Environment and Technology• School of Health Sciences• School of Humanities• School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular

Sciences• School of Sport and Service

Management.

Courses validated by the university are also delivered at our partner colleges across Sussex.

You will find the school and campus where your course is based on the letter accompanying this guide and on the New Student Area of studentcentral.

FIND OUT ABOUT YOUR COURSE INDUCTION EVENTS

In addition to your in-person enrolment, your academic school organises induction events specific to your course. These events may include a school welcome, introduction to your course, meeting your tutor and introductory teaching sessions. You can find information on your induction events after you have enrolled online through studentcentral in My Course section of the Studies tab.

PRE-COURSE PREPARATION

For some courses there may be some pre-course preparation, or information you must read before you start your course, such as reading lists. You can find out more about any requirements specific to your course by logging into studentcentral and visiting the My Course section of the Studies tab.

WHEN CAN YOU EXPECT TO SEE YOUR TIMETABLE?

When your final timetable becomes available will vary depending on course. When they are available, timetables will be published on studentcentral under the My School area of the Studies tab. Some timetables will not be confirmed until after the start of term. Until you get your timetable we advise that you do not buy your season ticket or make work commitments if possible.

CONFIRM £ the academic school and the campus

where your course is based

COMPLETE £ all required pre-course preparation

CHECK £ the full timetable of events for your

first week, including course induction events

LOOK £ at the academic study kit (ASK)

resources www.brighton.ac.uk/ask

YOUR COURSE



YOUR FIRST WEEK

ATTEND STAGE 2 IN-PERSON ENROLMENT

In order to become a fully enrolled student at the university, you need to complete stage 2 of the enrolment process, in-person enrolment.

Attendance at in-person enrolment is essential and you need to bring ID.This needs to be your passport or birth/ adoption certificate and at least one of the following:• full or provisional driving license• bank debit card• national insurance card• NHS medical card.

You may also be asked to bring original copies of your certificates or transcripts.

If you do not attend the in-person enrolment session you will experience delays in receiving your funding. If you are unable to attend your in-person enrolment session contact the enrolment helpline (see page 24) as soon as possible.

RECEIVING YOUR STUDENT FUNDING

Once you have completed your enrolment with the university, if you have applied for student finance the university will contact the Student Loans Company to confirm your attendance. Your student loan will then be released to your bank account. This can take between three or four working days so please ensure you have enough money to cover your costs for the first two weeks of term.

If you are eligible for an NHS Student Bursary please visit www.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/students for information regarding payment.

COMPLETE £ stage 2 in-person enrolment

Please bring your passport or birth/adoption certificate and one of the following: full or provisional driving license, bank debit card, national insurance card, NHS medical card.


ATTEND £ course induction events

GO TO £ the freshers’ fairs and Students’ Union

events

REGISTER £ with a doctor near where you live

Monday 28 September is the first official day of the university’s autumn term.

Some courses have different terms and start earlier than the first official day of term so you should check with your school.

Log into studentcentral and go to the My Course area under the Studies tab for information on first day of your course and full programme of events for your first week.


STAGE 2 IN-PERSON ENROLMENT DATES AND VENUES

To confirm where and when you will complete stage 2 in-person enrolment log into studentcentral and go to the My Course section of the Studies tab which will be available once you have completed online enrolment after Thursday 20 August.

Monday 28 September• Eastbourne• Moulsecoomb• Hastings

Tuesday 29 September• Falmer• Moulsecoomb

Wednesday 30 September• Grand Parade• Moulsecoomb

ATTEND COURSE INDUCTION EVENTS IN YOUR ACADEMIC SCHOOL

You will need to attend induction and teaching events for your course during your first week. These events may start before you attend your in-person enrolment session. You can find out the dates, times and locations of these events by logging into studentcentral and going to the My Course section of the Studies tab which will be available once you have completed online enrolment after Thursday 20 August. Contact details for your school office are provided at the back of this guide.

MEET THE VICE-CHANCELLOR

During your first week, the Vice-Chancellor or Deputy Vice-Chancellor will welcome you to the university and provide you with some essential information about the university community. You can find out the dates and times of these sessions by logging into studentcentral and go to the My Course area under the Studies tab (available the morning after you have completed online enrolment after Thursday 20 August).

MEET STUDENT SERVICES

Student Services provide support to help make your university experience the best it can be. You can meet members of the Student Services team at your in-person enrolment session and at the freshers’ fairs organised by the Students’ Union.

GO TO THE FRESHERS’ FAIR

A variety of events including freshers’ fairs are run by the Students’ Union during the first two weeks of term. Events take place in Brighton, Eastbourne and Hastings and are a chance to sign up for student clubs, societies and sports teams.

You can find out more by visiting www.brightonsu.com.

ATTEND LIBRARY INDUCTION AND IT SKILLS INDUCTION SESSIONS

Library induction and IT skills sessions take place early in the autumn term.

You can find out more by visiting www.brighton.ac.uk/is.


Getting involved with things outside your course during your time here will definitely add to your skills and experience. But more than that, it’s about finding what it is you love to do and is a great way to make new friends.

SPORT AND FITNESS

Sport Brighton is run in partnership by the university and the Students’ Union and can help you take part in whatever sporting activity you like at whatever level, whether you want to compete, keep fit or just have fun. There are fitness, health and wellbeing classes and many clubs and societies to choose from.

Check the website:www.brighton.ac.uk/sportbrighton.

SOCIETIES, CLUBS AND EVENTS

Brighton Students’ Union work with the student community to create a year-roundprogramme of events. There are over 100 student-run societies and you’re free to invent virtually any society you can think of; be it sporting, cultural, religious, political or course related. Union approval of your society means that you’ll have access to office facilities, free advice from the union and the chance to bid for financial support.

YOUR STUDENT VOICE

We listen to feedback and ideas from our students to make sure we provide you with the best possible student experience. As well as asking for your feedback through surveys, such as the National Student Survey, you can talk to your course tutor, school staff or student services at any time or you can contact the Students’ Union, or your course rep. Brighton Students’ Union leadership team are elected by students to represent students, and they campaign on a range of issues to ensure the student voice is heard.

The student charter highlights the university and Students’ Union relationship with our students through shared commitments and expectations.

www.brighton.ac.uk/studentcharter

BECOME A STUDENT AMBASSADOR

We are always looking for new students to help us to promote the university through our Student Recruitment and Outreach Ambassador Programme. We have paid opportunities available to work at events such as open days and higher education fairs as well as with local schools, colleges and communities. We will be recruiting ambassadors to work at our autumn open days.

Chat to us at the freshers’ fair or contact [email protected] for more information.

YOUR STUDENT LIFE

There are loads of sports teams, as well as lots of other fun things... I know lots of people who have really enjoyed them! In terms of course reps, it’s a great thing to do and put on your CV.

Lauren Mac – Photography BA(Hons) student

A LIFELONG LINK

Even when you graduate you’ll still be able to access our sports, library and careers services through our alumni association. You can also benefit from the Alumni Advice Network while you are still a student and we are happy to put you in touch with alumni to discuss career paths and opportunities or to just get some advice about being at university.

BOOST YOUR CAREER POTENTIAL

Part of the experience of being at university is about preparing for your future career. Whatever your ambitions, our Careers Service is here to provide you with support and focus throughout your time here, and after you leave.

www.brighton.ac.uk/careers

CAREER DEVELOPMENT SUPPORT

You can book an appointment as soon as you start your course with a professionally qualified Career Development Adviser.

It’s never too early to work out what you want to do after university, and our advisers can help you decide what activities you should do during university to help you with your career development.

ENTREPRENEURSHIP

Beepurple, our enterprise network, helps students and graduates get their business ideas off to the best possible start. Over 1,440 staff, students and alumni have signed up to the Beepurple entrepreneurship programme.

Beepurple offers free workshops to develop members’ enterprise skills as well as one-to-one business support for anyone looking to develop an entrepreneurial idea, start a company or social enterprise or for those who are already trading.

www.beepurple.co.uk

VOLUNTEERING AND MENTORING

Volunteering is rewarding and also provides opportunities to gain experience and enhance your employability and meet new people. So far, more than 3,300 students have been placed on projects in the local community by our Active Student volunteering service, which can help you find a suitable and rewarding volunteering opportunity.

www.brighton.ac.uk/volunteering

Our award-winning mentoring scheme, Momentum, offers you the chance to work with a mentor and boost your chances of career success. Mentors are carefully selected industry experts who will help to develop your skills and often offer work experience.

www.brighton.ac.uk/careers

FINDING A JOB AFTER UNIVERSITY

Whether you know what you want to do when you graduate or not, you can get expert advice from our Careers Service staff who can help you with your CV, job applications and interview techniques.They can help you to research careers and further study and training opportunities.

University of Brighton student Charlotte Jackson secured a job in Sussex’s thriving digital sector – even before graduating.

The Digital Media student, who graduated last July was snapped up by digital marketing agency, RocketMill, as a web designer and developer. Charlotte took full advantage of the opportunities open to her as part of her course, and those available to all Brighton students, helping to make her a very attractive proposition for employers.

YOUR CAREER


Charlotte JacksonDigital Media BA(Hons)

The degree introduced me to many skills for the digital media industry and inspired me to discover my passion for web design and development. The course regularly exposed me to industry professionals, placement opportunities and relevant conferences in the local web community – these were fantastic opportunities.

For more information visit www.brighton.ac.uk/careers.


BRIGHTON STUDENTS’ UNION WELCOME

So you’re on your way to the University of Brighton. Starting university can feel a bit daunting, but it’s such an exciting time and one you’ll remember for a very long time.

Did you know you’re automatically a member of the Students’ Union as soon as you enrol here. Getting involved in your Students’ Union is one of the best ways to make the most of your time as a student.

In fact, ensuring that you have the most fantastic, fulfilling experience at the University of Brighton is our mission as an organisation. As we’re led by students and work solely for our student members, you can guarantee that we’re on your side.The Students’ Union’s work falls into four main categories, here’s just a taster of all that’s available to you.

CHANGE THINGS

Lead campaigns, stand in our elections, become a course rep, attend NUS National Conference, nominate university staff for the Excellence Awards.

FUN TIMES

Come along to Freshtival and welcome events, enjoy exclusive student discounts with NUS extra, relax in our cafe-bars on campus, go out to our weekly nightclub events and special nights like our garden party, graduation ball and the Hollywood ball.

GOOD ADVICE

Obtain free advice and guidance from the Students’ Union Support Service and our sexual health drop-ins. Benefit from our health and wellbeing, and housing campaigns.

STUDENT ACTIVITIES

Join a club or society, get involved in student media, choose from a range of volunteering opportunities, get a job with the Students’ Union, and be nominated for a volunteer award.

You’re automatically a member of the Students’ Union as soon as you enrol at the university.

NEW STUDENTS’ CHECKLIST

£ Buy your NUS extra card to save on all your everyday expenses from food and clothes to books and equipment. Extra is the premium discount and membership card for students. Get yours at: https://cards.nusextra.co.uk.

£ Check out our Freshtival 2015 line up – two weeks of amazing live acts, parties and the best club nights.

£ Have fun, meet new people and make friends by signing up to a club or society. Meet the groups at our freshers’ fair or take a look at our website for details.

£ Meet your student leadership team. The officers elected to represent you will be out and about during welcome and the Freshtival events.

£ Sign up to Brighton Students’ Union Freshers’ mailing list brightonsu.com/welcome

£ Join a community of thousands of University of Brighton students by following us on Facebook and Twitter.

www.facebook.com/brightonstudentsunionwww.twitter.com/subrighton.

www.brightonsu.com


ONCE YOU ARE HERE...

STUDY SUPPORT

There is a range of support available to help you with your studies, from online tools to one-to-one tutoring, alongside specialist support for students with specific needs.

You can explore our online academic study kit (ASK) and find out dates of study skills sessions at www.brighton.ac.uk/ask.

Studentcentral can help you manage your workload and provides access to e-books, journals and other study materials tailored to your course.

ACADEMIC ENGLISH SKILLS

If English is not your first language and you would like to develop your academic English skills, our international academic study kit (iASK) offers free help.

www.brighton.ac.uk/iask

FINDING A PART-TIME JOB

Many of our full-time students work part-time while they are studying. You might need to work for financial reasons, or you might want to work to gain experience and learn new skills.

If you decide to get a part-time job while you are studying then register as soon as you start with the Careers Service. They manage a vacancy database with automatic links to the Brighton & Hove Jobs.com – the largest job board in the area.

Visit www.brighton.ac.uk/careers to register with the vacancy service.

STUDENT SERVICES

Student Services provides support throughout your time at university and will make sure you get the most from your experience here.

Our experienced and supportive staff offer advice on a range of academic and non-academic issues.

• Active Student volunteering• Beepurple enterprise network• Career development• Chaplaincy• Childcare• Disability and dyslexia support• International student support• Medical centres• Money, benefits and immigration advice

www.brighton.ac.uk/studentlife

ACCOMMODATION SERVICES

The accommodation service has offices in Brighton, Eastbourne and Hastings. We can offer advice and help to find accommodation to new students and current students. We’re open year round and our friendly team is here to help with halls queries, private rented sector guidance and housing advice.

SUPPORT WITHIN YOUR SCHOOL

If you have concerns about your studies, you can talk to your course leader, a course tutor or your allocated personal tutor. You will also have a Student Support and Guidance Tutor (SSGT) in your school; they offer initial advice on many topics and can point you at other university staff who can help you in more detail.

www.brighton.ac.uk/studysupport

Student Information Desk (SID)The Student Information Desk is available though studentcentral once you have enrolled online from Thursday 20 August. Our detailed FAQs may answer your question, and if not you can ask the experts online.

COMMUNICATION FROM US

You are going to be busy when you first start university and there is a lot to take in – it’s easy to miss important information. Look out for updates from us throughout the year, relating to your student finances, your studies, career, and student life in general. These messages will be sent to your university email address and via studentcentral.

We will also let you know of opportunities to get involved with paid market research, enter competitions and to give your feedback about the university.

Look out for the Brighton Rocks blogs.

University of BrightonFalmer campus

University of BrightonGrand Parade campus

University of BrightonMoulsecoomb campus

University of BrightonEastbourne campus

University of BrightonHastings campus

City CollegeBrighton and Hove

PlumptonCollege

Sussex DownsCollege (Lewes)

Sussex DownsCollege (Eastbourne)

Sussex Coast College Hastings

Kent

East Sussex

Surrey

West Sussex

Sussex area: How to get here

Maps and directions

University site/buildingPartner college

Key

For maps of all of our campuses, and travel and parking advice visit www.brighton.ac.uk/maps.

Contact details including those for school offices are provided at www.brighton.ac.uk/contactus.

MAPS

www.brighton.ac.uk/maps 17

Our Brighton campuses

University campus/buildingHalls of residenceTrain station

Key

BRIGHTON AREA

18 www.brighton.ac.uk/maps/brighton

Aldrich LibraryEntrance via Cockcroft Building

Moulsecoomb Place

Watts Building

Tithe Barn

Steam House

N

S

EW

Huxley Building

One World Nursery

Heavy Engineering Block

< T

o B

rig

hto

n c

ity

ce

ntr

e

To E

ast

bo

urn

e A

27, A

23/M

23 >

Campusentrance

by car

Buses toFalmer andVarley Halls

Pedestrianentrance

Pedestriancrossing

Entrance to

car park

Pedestrianentrance

Buses toBrighton B

B

PStaff

P

P

Permit holdersonly

Permitholders

only

MoulsecoombStation

Queensdown School Road

Natal Road

Lew

es R

oad

A27

0

Le

wes

Roa

d

Dew

e R

oad

Cockcroft Building

Mithras House

Mithras House annexe

Manor House

Aldrich LibraryEntrance via Cockcroft Building

Moulsecoomb Place

Watts Building

Tithe Barn

Steam House

N

S

EW

Huxley Building

One World Nursery

Heavy Engineering Block

< T

o B

rig

hto

n c

ity

ce

ntr

e

To E

ast

bo

urn

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27, A

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23 >

Campusentrance

by car

Buses toFalmer andVarley Halls

Pedestrianentrance

Pedestriancrossing

Entrance to

car park

Pedestrianentrance

Buses toBrighton B

B

PStaff

P

P

Permit holdersonly

Permitholders

only

MoulsecoombStation

Queensdown School Road

Natal Road

Lew

es R

oad

A27

0

Le

wes

Roa

d

Dew

e R

oad

Cockcroft Building

Mithras House

Mithras House annexe

Manor House

To confirm where and when you will complete stage 2 in-person enrolment log into studentcentral and go to the My Course section of the Studies tab which will be available the morning after you have completed online enrolment after Thursday 20 August.

MOULSECOOMB CAMPUS

www.brighton.ac.uk/maps/moulsecoomb 19

Royal

Pavilio

nDome

A259 Grand Junction Road Madeira Drive

Edward Street

Marine Parade

Kingswood Street Charlton Hill

< Church Street

North Road >

Mar

lbor

ough

Pla

ce >

G

louc

este

r P

lace

>

< G

rand

Par

ade

Ric

hmon

d P

lace

Lew

es R

oad

London Road <

York Place D

itchling Road

> Trafalgar Street <

CheapsideTerminus Road

Sta

tion

St

Morley Street

Old S

teine >

Southover Street

Circ

us S

tW

illia

m S

tree

t

Wes

t Str

eet

Q

ueen

s R

oad

New

Roa

d

North Street > St James Street

Old

Ste

ine

>

Pav

ilion P

de

< To Hove

< To A

23/M23/M

25

< To Seven Dials and Hove

To A

27 >

P

P

PP

St PetersChurch

BrightonStation

Circus Street annexe

Grand Parade Building

Pavilion Parade

St Peters House

Phoenix Breweryand Phoenix Nursery

Brighton Pier University buildingHalls of residenceTrain stationLibraryParkingBus stop Footpath

Key

PB


20 www.brighton.ac.uk/maps/grandparade

GRAND PARADE CAMPUS

There is a footpathleading to the campus

Note:restricted

vehicle accessto site

Car parkingfor residences

Subway fromUniversity of Sussex

to the station andsouth side of A27

Great Wilkins

B2123 The Drove

A27

Village Way

Falmer Station

Universityof Sussexcampus

< To Brighton A23/M2 T3 o Eastbourne >

To Woodingdean/Rottingdean >

Sussex Health& Racquet club Health

& Racquet club car park

Pede

strian

area

Permitholders

only

Hard Courts

Artificial trainingpitch

Permit holdersonly

Note: newtraffic light

system

Westlain House

Mayfield House

Falmer Library

Small Hall

Ringmer House

Paddock Field

Checkland Building

FalmerSports Centre

American

Express

Community

Stadium

B2123

B

B

B

PP

P

B

N

S

EW


www.brighton.ac.uk/maps/falmer 21

FALMER CAMPUS

Leaf Hospital

Hillbrow and Welkin site

Darley Road site

Gaudick R

d Chesterfield Rd

A259 East Dean Road

Mea

ds R

oad

Gro

ve R

d

Beach Rd

A259 High Street The Goffs

Victoria D

rive

A2270 Willingdon Road U

pperton Road

A2270 W

illingdon R

oad

Cro

ss L

evel

s W

ay

Whit

ley Rd

Seaside Rd

Ashford Rd Langney R

d

Lottbridge Drove

A25

9 S

easi

de R

oad

A

259

Seas

ide

Road

St Anne’s Road

Kings D

rive A2021 Kings Drive Lewes Road

The

Aven

ue

A20

40Sum

merdow

n Rd Paradise

Drive Carlisle Road

Paradise Drive

Car

lisle

Rd

Den

ton

Rd

Darley Road

B2103 Warren H

ill Beachy Head Rd

Upper Dukes Drive

K

ing E

dwar

ds P

arad

e

B210

3 G

rand

Par

ade

Roy

al Pa

rade

< To Brighton

To A

22 a

nd A

27 >

To H

astin

gs >

To L

on

do

n A

22 >

Eastbourne Pier

Beachy Head

Welkin Halls of residence

P

Queenwood LearningResource Centre

Aldro

Greynore 2

Beachy Head Road

Baslow Road

Denton R

d

Wellcombe Crescent

Carlisle R

oad Darley R

oad Darley R

oad

Meads Street

Mea

ds S

tree

t

< From Meads Road

To Hillbrow/Welkin campus

Pedestrianaccess

Pedestrianaccess

Permit holders only

P

P

P

PStaff

Ward Hall

Robert Dodd

Greynore 3

Greynore 1

Staff

N

S

EW

Darley Road BN20 7UN

22 www.brighton.ac.uk/maps/eastbourne

EASTBOURNE CAMPUS


Havelock Roadbuilding

Priory Squarebuilding

HastingsStation

A

21

Bray

brooke Road

Cam

brid

ge Gard

ens

Priory Street

Havelock R

oad

Middle Street

Dev

onsh

ire R

oad

Cambridge Road

Cla

rem

ount

Robertso

n Street

A259 Carlisle Parade

Denmark Place A259

Alb

ert Road

Queen

s Roa

d

South Terrace

Earl

Stre

etM

ann

Stre

et

Clegg StreetBrook Street

Cornwallis Street

P

P

P

P

P

P

Robert Tressell Hall 15 minutes walk from Havelock Roadand Priory Square buildings

Havelock Road

Havelock Roadbuilding

Priory Squarebuilding

HastingsStation

A

21

Bray

brooke Road

Cam

brid

ge Gard

ens

Priory Street

Havelock R

oad

Middle Street

Dev

onsh

ire R

oad

Cambridge Road

Cla

rem

ount

Robertso

n Street

A259 Carlisle Parade

Denmark Place A259

Alb

ert Road

Queen

s Roa

d

South Terrace

Earl

Stre

etM

ann

Stre

et

Clegg StreetBrook Street

Cornwallis Street

P

P

P

P

P

P

Robert Tressell Hall 15 minutes walk from Havelock Roadand Priory Square buildings

Havelock Road

University buildingHalls of residenceTrain station

Key

www.brighton.ac.uk/maps/hastings 23

HASTINGS CAMPUS



These are the contact details that you are most likely to need before you arrive and during your first few weeks.

Admissions and general enquiries01273 [email protected] enquiries team are your first pointof contact for help with studentcentral,activating your university account or anyother questions you have about startinguniversity.

Contact admissions and general enquiries01273 [email protected]

Enrolment helpline01273 [email protected] questions about stage 1 online enrolment and stage 2 in-person enrolment.

Tuition fees enquiry team01273 [email protected] queries about what fees you need to pay and how to pay, contact the fee enquiry team.

Fees, loans and grants 01273 642449Fees assessment 01273 644500

Accommodation

The university has accommodation services in Brighton, Eastbourne and Hastings. Offices are open between 9.30am and 4.30pm from Monday–Thursday and 9.30am and 4pm on Friday. At peak times, our aim is to respond to any query within two working days. You should also check studentcentral and Facebook regularly for updates about accommodation.

Brighton01273 [email protected]

This service handles Moulsecoomb, Grand Parade and Falmer halls of residence queries and UniHome, Homestay and private sector accommodation enquiries for Brighton-based students.

Eastbourne 01273 [email protected]

Enquiries about Welkin halls of residence and private sector accommodation in Eastbourne.

Hastings 01273 644631 [email protected]

Advice about Robert Tressell Halls, Havelock Road and private sector accommodation in Hastings.

USEFUL CONTACTS

School offices

Brighton and Sussex Medical School (BSMS) 01273 [email protected]

Brighton Business School (BBS) Undergraduate 01273 [email protected]

Postgraduate 01273 642197 [email protected]

College of Arts and Humanities01273 643728 Arts and design coursesArchitecture and design [email protected]

Arts courses [email protected] Humanities coursesFalmer (English and media)Undergraduate [email protected]

[email protected]

Pavilion Parade (Humanities and history of art and design)Undergraduate humanities [email protected]

Undergraduate history of art and design [email protected]

Postgraduate [email protected]

The academic school or partner college and the campus where your course is based is listed on the letter accompanying this guide.

www.fsc.org

RECYCLEDMade from

recycled materialFSC® C014531

®


Division of Medical Education01273 641782 [email protected]

School of Applied Social Sciences01273 [email protected]

School of Computing, Engineering and Mathematics 01273 [email protected]

School of Education 01273 [email protected]

School of Environment and Technology01273 [email protected]

School of Health Sciences

Occupational therapy, physiotherapy and podiatry01273 [email protected]

Nursing, midwifery, paramedics and community health01273 [email protected]

School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences 01273 642090 [email protected]

School of Sport and Service Management01273 [email protected]

Hastings campus

Hastings campus 01273 644648 [email protected]

Student Services

[email protected]/studentlifeTwitter: @brightonstudent

Campus officesMoulsecoomb 01273 642895Eastbourne 01273 643845Falmer 01273 643584Grand Parade 01273 643187Hastings 01273 644636

Careers Service Find part-time work and volunteering opportunities01273 [email protected]

Childcare01273 642021 (Moulsecoomb)01273 277016 (Grand Parade)[email protected]

Disability and dyslexia01273 [email protected]

Student advice serviceSpecialist advice about issues including benefits, money management, visas and immigration01273 [email protected]

Sport Brighton

Advice about our facilities, the availability of sports and activities and how to join in01273 643520www.brighton.ac.uk/sport

Brighton Students’ Union

01273 642746www.brightonsu.com

The campus where your course is based is on the letter accompanying this guide.

This publication is available in alternative formats on request.

University of BrightonMithras HouseLewes RoadBrightonBN2 4AT

email [email protected] 01273 644644fax 01273 642607international code (+441273)www.brighton.ac.uk

MC/AGSL/0715/V2/8000

YOUR COURSE £ Confirm the academic school and the

campus where your course is based. £ Complete all required pre-course

preparation. £ Check the full timetable of events

for your first week, including course induction events.

£ Look at the academic study kit (ASK) resources www.brighton.ac.uk/ask

YOUR FIRST WEEK £ Complete stage 2 in-person enrolment

Please bring your passport or birth/adoption certificate and one of the following: full or provisional driving license, bank debit card, national insurance card, NHS medical card.


£ Attend course induction events. £ Go to the freshers’ fairs and Students’

Union events. £ Register with a doctor near where you

live.

WHAT YOU SHOULD DO NOW

GETTING STARTED £ Activate your university user

account If you haven’t already, you need to

activate your university user account – this will provide you with your university username and password for studentcentral.

£ Log into studentcentral to read advice for students starting in September.

£ Upload your university photo.

FINANCE £ Make or update your student finance

application (UK and EU students only). £ Work out a budget. £ Open a bank account.

ACCOMMODATION £ Apply for halls up until Saturday 8

August.

SOME OF YOU WILL ALSO NEED TO...

£ Book a place on international orientation (international and European students).

£ Arrange childcare and funding £ Apply for Disabled Student Allowance

(DSA). £ Check your vaccinations are up to date.


£ If you are getting your A-level results today, you can confirm your place with us.

£ Meet other students on your campus Facebook group – we’ll invite you.


£ Log into studentcentral where you can complete stage 1 online enrolment.

The morning after online enrolment you can log into studentcentral where you can:

£ check your course details including your start date and term and semester dates

£ start using your university email account.

You can also: £ accept your accommodation offer

within seven days £ attend house hunting events £ buy your NUS extra card.

ACCOMMODATION

HALLS OF RESIDENCE £ Read our halls allocation policy. £ If you are eligible and you want to

apply for halls you need to do this by Saturday 8 August.

£ We’ll let you know the outcome of your halls application from Monday 17 August.

£ Pay the first rent instalment within seven days of us contacting you to secure your place in halls.

£ Join your halls Facebook group. £ Complete the accommodation online

induction, where you’ll be given an arrival time.

PRIVATE ACCOMMODATION £ Read our advice on looking for

accommodation in the private sector. £ Join the house hunting Facebook

group for your location. £ Check out www.brightonstudentpad.

co.uk. £ Attend a house hunting event.

YOUR COMPLETE CHECKLIST

Student support number

This is the number given to you by Student Finance

University student number

This is the number that the university has given you and will stay with you for the whole of your time here

Documents

Get Ready Guide 2015