Richmond - In Depth

Founded: 1972.

Site: 2 sites: Richmond Campus (off Richmond Hill, south-west London) and Kensington Campus (near Gloucester Road, Kensington).

How to get there: To Richmond by train (from Waterloo and north London line), underground (District line) or bus. To Kensington by underground (Gloucester Road, High Street Kensington stations) or bus (many bus routes).

Academic features: Flexible (USA) liberal arts system. All undergraduate degrees validated in UK and US. Small classes (average size 16). Awarding body: Open University (UK) and Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools (USA).

Main undergraduate awards: BA, BSc (or BS).

Length of courses: 4 years (less with A-levels or incorporating summer schools).

Library & information services: 62,000 volumes, 300 periodicals, 25 CD-Rom databases etc.

Careers: Information, advice service and internship programme.

Student advice & services: Nurse and counsellor on each campus. Amenities: Clubs and societies.

Sporting facilities: Multi purpose outdoor court and fitness centre.

Accommodation: Available for all students; guaranteed for first year students who confirm before deadline. Rent approx £3000 per semester/term. Private sector rents locally approx £600 per month (based on 2 sharing a 2-bed flat).

Living expenses budget: Minimum budget of £8000-£9000 pa (excluding tuition fees) recommended by university.

Term-time work: Students allowed to work in term time (max of 20 hours a week); student jobs available on campus.

Financial help: Scholarships available: total funds approx £1 million (65% of students have scholarship).

Tuition fees: £12,000 pa for first degrees, both home and international students.