2012www.bangor.ac.uk

BANGOR UNIVER

SITY 2012U

CAS Code: B

angr B06

BANGOR UNIVERSITYUNDERGRADUATEPROSPECTUS 2012

2 Introduction6 Advantages of Studying at Bangor14 Who Chooses to Study at Bangor?21 Accommodation26 Social Life and the Students’ Union30 Clubs and Societies32 Sporting Life and the Great Outdoors36 Location and Surrounding Area38 Welcome Week42 Careers and Employability Service44 Information for International Students50 Study at Bangor54 Supporting our Students56 Financing your Studies58 Bursaries and Scholarships61 An Opportunity to Study Overseas62 Mature Students64 Part-time Study and Lifelong Learning65 Services to Schools and Colleges66 Entry Requirements68 How to Apply70 Open Days72 Joint Honours Degrees75 Course Details258 Index by Subject263 General Index264 Postgraduate Opportunities265 Useful Contacts

INTRODUCTION& GENERALINFORMATION

If you find it difficultto read the size ofprint in this book,please look at ourwebsitewww.bangor.ac.ukfor details of ourcourses and facilities.

UCAS CodeBangr B06

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

The University makes all reasonable efforts toensure that the information in this Prospectus iscorrect at the time of printing (February 2011).

The University makes all reasonable efforts toprovide the courses, tuition and learning support,research opportunities and other services andfacilities with reasonable care and skill and in theway described in this Prospectus. However, theUniversity shall be entitled if it reasonablyconsiders it to be necessary (including in order tomanage its resources and to improve the qualityof its provision) to make changes to this provisionincluding:

• to make changes to (for example) the contentand syllabus of courses and methods ofteaching and assessment (including in relationto placements);

• to suspend or discontinue courses.

In the unlikely event that the Universitydiscontinues or does not provide a course orchanges it significantly before it begins, theUniversity will tell the relevant individuals at theearliest possible opportunity. An individual will beentitled to withdraw from the course by tellingthe University in writing within a reasonable timeof being informed of the change.

The University will make available to studentssuch learning support and other services andfacilities as it considers appropriate but may varywhat it provides and how it provides it (forexample, the University may consider it desirableto change the way it provides library or ITsupport).

The willingness of the University to consider anapplication is no guarantee of acceptance.Students are admitted to the University on thebasis that the information they provide on theirapplication form is complete and correct.

USEFUL CONTACTS

INTERNATIONAL OFFICETel: +44 1248 382028E-mail: international@bangor.ac.uk

MONEY SUPPORT UNITTel: 01248 383566/383637E-mail: moneysupport@bangor.ac.uk

OPEN DAY AND OTHER VISITSTel: 01248 388143E-mail: visits@bangor.ac.uk

PROSPECTUSES(English, Welsh and Postgraduate)AND OTHER UNIVERSITY LITERATURETel: 01248 383561/382005E-mail: prospectus@bangor.ac.uk

STUDENT HOUSING OFFICETel: 01248 382034E-mail: studenthousing@bangor.ac.uk

STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICESTel: 01248 382024E-mail: studentservices@bangor.ac.uk

BANGOR UNIVERSITY GWYNEDD LL57 2DGTel: 01248 351151Website: www.bangor.ac.uk

ADMISSIONSTel: 01248 388484E-mail: admissions@bangor.ac.uk

AUGUST RESULTS HELPLINETel: 0800 085 1818

THE MILES DYSLEXIA CENTRETel: 01248 383843E-mail: dyslex-student@bangor.ac.uk

ENGLISH LANGUAGE ANDFOUNDATION COURSESTel: +44 1248 382252E-mail: elcos@bangor.ac.uk

HALLS OFFICETel: 01248 382667E-mail: halls@bangor.ac.uk

Bangor

Belfast

Dublin

Glasgow

Edinburgh

LondonDover

SouthamptonExeter

Cardiff

Carlisle

Newcastle

Birmingham

Liverpool Manchester

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DESIGN/IMAGES: COWBOIS/HAMILTONPRINT: GWASG DWYFOR, PENYGROES

‘Academically, Bangor has a long tradition of

excellence. Founded in 1884, the University’sposition as a first-class institution of highereducation was reaffirmed by the most recentresearch assessment exercise, when 19subjects were identified as having world-leading elements in their work… Living costsare low and the crime rate for north Wales isone of the lowest nationally. There are morethan 2,200 rooms available, and Bangor hasalways recorded strong performances in theNational Student Survey.

’SUNDAY TIMES UNIVERSITY GUIDE

Founded in 1884, Bangor University hasa long tradition of excellence andexceeds expectations, both for academicstandards and student experience.

The national Research Assessment Exerciseshows that world leading research is beingcarried out at Bangor. Areas of particularexcellence include Accounting & Finance whichis rated as the best for research in the UK, andElectronic Engineering which is rated second inthe UK. Sports Science is placed in the top 10 inthe UK and Psychology is 11th in the UK.

Bangor is ranked within the top 50 universitiesin the UK (Sunday Times University Guide), andalso performs well in a variety of studentsurveys where satisfaction levels and overallexperience are consistently high. For instance,Bangor was ranked within the top 25 in the UKfor overall student experience (Times HigherEducation), and achieved top 20 positions in theNational Student Survey in subject areasranging from Business Studies and PrimaryEducation to Chemistry, Linguistics, Psychologyand Zoology.

FOR LEARNINGAND FOR LIFE

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BEYONDEXPECTATION& MILESFROM THEORDINARY

‘Bangor is a genuinely caring and

supportive university community, and wetake great pride in the first class serviceswe offer our students. These includeacademic, financial, career and personaladvice and support.

The quality of our teaching and research isworld class, attracting students and stafffrom around the globe. In addition, there arenumerous opportunities for students to getinvolved in a wide variety of activities. Thestunning mountains of Snowdonia andmiles of coastline provide the backdrop to auniversity experience which cannot bebeaten.

’Prof JOHN G. HUGHESVice-Chancellor, Bangor University

CELEBRATING125 YEARS OFEXCELLENCE

© Bourn Hall

• University staff and students were delighted to hearof Bangor University graduate Prof Robert Edwards’achievement in winning the 2010 Nobel Prize inMedicine.

He was awarded the Nobel Prize for developing in-vitro fertilization (IVF) therapy, which has broughtparenthood to so many couples who would otherwisehave been childless.

Robert Edwards gained his first degree in Zoology atBangor University in 1951, before going on to have asuccessful career at Cambridge.

“We wholeheartedly congratulate Prof Edwards,” saidProf John G. Hughes, Vice-Chancellor of BangorUniversity. “His research has brought happiness to somany families throughout the world. Prof Edwards isalso an Honorary Fellow of Bangor, and we’redelighted that he has achieved such high recognitionfor his outstanding contribution to science.”

• There was much cause for celebration when BangorUniversity celebrated its 125th Anniversary, with thehighlights including the awarding of Bangor’s firstever Honorary Degrees. One of the world’s mostrevered public figures, Archbishop Desmond Tutu,was amongst those honoured in a glittering ceremonywhich celebrated an important milestone in theUniversity's history.

Archbishop Tutu, Archbishop Emeritus of Cape Town,a winner of the Nobel Peace Prize and former Chair ofthe Truth & Reconciliation Commission in SouthAfrica, received an Honorary Doctorate from theUniversity. The four individuals honoured alsoincluded acclaimed broadcaster and naturalist SirDavid Attenborough.

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“This is great news for Bangor as well as for thewhole of Wales and beyond,” said theUniversity’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Prof FergusLowe. “Pontio will become a hub for the localcommunity, bringing people and businessestogether to promote investment andregeneration in north Wales.

“It will be a world-class centre for innovation inscience, technology and the creative industries,and will be a cultural beacon for Wales. It willinclude a dynamic Innovation Hub, cutting-edgeteaching and learning facilities and a range ofindoor and outdoor performance spacesincluding a theatre and cinema space, anoutdoor amphitheatre, cafés, restaurants andparkland where people can meet, learn and beentertained.”

Bangor University’s Vice-Chancellor ProfessorJohn G. Hughes said: “This is a once in a gener-ation chance for Bangor. We will create aninternationally significant Centre for learning,innovation and the performing arts that will be apotent symbol of regeneration and collaborationfor the whole community.”

A SPRINGBOARDFOR THE FUTURE

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An ambitious new Arts and Innovation Centreon the University campus is set to have atransformative effect on the local economy, aswell as become an internationally significantcentre for learning, innovation and theperforming arts.

The £36M ‘Pontio’ project – which means ‘tobridge’ in Welsh – recently received a majorboost with the announcement of a £27.5minvestment by the Welsh Assembly Governmentand European Regional Development Fund.

The centre – which is due to open in 2013 – isexpected to create and safeguard hundreds ofjobs and become a platform from whicheconomic growth in the area can develop.

‘...This is great news for

Bangor as well as for thewhole of Wales andbeyond...’

ADVANTAGESOF STUDYINGAT BANGOR

‘The University has generally performed well

in the annual satisfaction survey, with those inbusiness, education, history, languages andsports science giving particularly high marks inthe most recent edition. The small and friendlynature of the university and the city no doubthelped… Teaching assessments wereimpressive, with half of the subjects rated asexcellent. There is a high proportion of small-group teaching and tutorials, as well as one ofBritain's largest peer guiding schemes, whichsees senior students mentoring newarrivals.

’TIMES GOOD UNIVERSITY GUIDE, 2011

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Bangor University has a long tradition of academic excellencewhich continues to this day. Bangor prides itself on the qualityof education offered, with the teaching quality in over half of thesubject areas assessed rated as ‘excellent’. Bangor’s position asa world-class research institutionwas confirmed by theUniversity’s performance in the most recent ResearchAssessment Exercise, with world-leading research identified inall of the 19 assessed subject areas.

For undergraduate students, this means that excellence in teaching isinformed by excellence in research. In a recent report, the UK QualityAssurance Agency confirmed that staff research informs the teaching ofstudents at Bangor, and concluded that “students can be confident that theteaching they receive operates at the threshold of available knowledge”.

GUARANTEEDACCOMMODATION

ACADEMICEXCELLENCE

We guarantee accommodation for first-year students who applywithin the given time frame. A £35M development project on themain accommodation site has meant the opening of many newhalls and led to an increase in the number of en-suite rooms.

We have over 2,200 rooms available, which means that some of our secondand third-year students can also opt to live in halls. All of the accomm-odation is within easy walking distance of the University, and includes some2,000 en-suite study rooms which we believe are amongst the mostreasonably priced in the university system (see page 21).

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At Bangor, we place a high priority oncaring for and supporting our students.This is reflected in the fact that Bangorwas rated the top university in the UK forthe help and support provided tostudents (Times Higher Education). Fromthe moment you arrive, you’ll be given asmuch help and support as possible withhealth and welfare matters as well asyour academic work.

Bangor has one of the largest Peer Guidingschemes of any university, with second andthird-year students involved in a mentoringscheme to help new students settle in duringtheir first weeks here. Bangor’s Peer Guidescheme was recently shortlisted for theOutstanding Student Support award at theTimes Higher Education’s Awards Ceremony(November 2010), and is recognised as one ofthe UK’s most successful mentoring schemes.

The Peer Guide scheme and the Personal Tutorsystemmean there is always another student oran academic member of staff you can turn to,while the University’s Student Services Centreprovides a professional support service forstudents (see page 54). Bangor’s pioneeringDyslexia Centre is internationally known for itsexpertise, and provides valuable support for over500 students a year.

STUDENTSUPPORT

‘there is always someone

you can talk to. The Universityhelps you to enjoy your timehere as much as possible…

’

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A FRIENDLY, STUDENT-CENTRED PLACE TO LIVEAND STUDYThe size and friendly nature of Bangor means it is easy to getto know people and our students settle in immediately. Studentsurveys show that a high proportion of students choose Bangorbecause of the small and friendly nature of the University andthe town.

Most of our buildings and student residences are a short walk from the citycentre where you’ll find the longest High Street in Wales, a modernshopping centre and a good mix of national chain stores and smaller localbusinesses. A recent student survey of university towns and cities ratedBangor as one of the best places in the UK to be a student, in terms offacilities and location. Compared to many other university cities, Bangor isalso considered to be a relatively safe place to study, as the crime rate forNorth Wales is one of the lowest in the UK.

‘Bangor is a small, friendly

cathedral city set in a stunninglocation... The general consensusis that Bangor is a safe, clean andaffordable place to live, andcomes highly recommended.

’THE GUARDIAN UNIVERSITY GUIDE

‘A lot of students for a small

place, so there’s a strongcommunity feel.

’THE INDEPENDENT’S A-Z OF UNIVERSITIES ANDHIGHER EDUCATION COLLEGES

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Bangor is exceptionally well-situated andwell-equipped for students interested insport – especially those involving thegreat outdoors. Rock climbing, mountainbiking, canoeing, sailing and surfing arejust some of the activities available, aswell as team sports such as rugby,hockey and football.

We also offer annual SportsScholarshipsworth up to £2,000 each.However, don’t think you need to besporty to come here – many of ourstudents just like the fact that Bangor isin such a scenic location, and that ittends to be cleaner, safer and friendlierthan many larger places.

SCENIC ANDSPORTYLOCATION

‘Wonderful position. On one

side are the mountains of theSnowdonia National Park, onthe other side is the MenaiStrait... boasts the bestuniversity setting in the UK,with parts within 6 feet of thesea.’

THE INDEPENDENT’S A-Z OF UNIVERSITIES ANDHIGHER EDUCATION COLLEGES

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Bangor

Belfast

Dublin Holyhead

GlasgowEdinburgh

Hull

London

DoverSouthampton

Exeter

Cardi

Birmingham

Liverpool ManchesterWrexham

We’re far easier to getto than you might think– there are good roadlinks to Bangor alongthe North Wales coastfrom the M56 & M6.

There are also directtrains from London,Manchester, Crewe

and Cardiff.

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Situated close to the mountains ofSnowdonia and the sea, Bangor isone of the most attractive studylocations in the UK

Market research shows that the cost of living in Bangor is muchlower than in other parts of the UK. Bangor has been describedas “one of the cheapest places in Britain” to be a student (TheA-Z of Universities and Higher Education Colleges) and isconsistently ranked as one of the most economical places tostudy in the UK in various cost-of-living surveys.

As a university which places great emphasis on studentsupport, we also offer extra help to new students by funding arange of scholarships and bursaries (see page 58 for details).

LOW COST OFLIVING – ANDEXTRA HELP

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NEWFACILITIESThe results of a multi-million pound investmentprogramme can already be seen on the Universitycampus, with new student residences and academicfacilities such as the Management Centre and theEnvironment Centre Wales building (seen right) alreadyin place. The planned new Arts and Innovation Centre –due to open in 2013 – will provide exciting arts andentertainment facilities for the University and the localcommunity. The £36M project will include a theatre,lecture theatres, external amphitheatre, exhibitionspaces, bar and café.

PREPARE FORYOUR FUTUREBangor has been recognised as one of the bestuniversities in the UK for partnerships with business.As a student here you’ll be encouraged to takeadvantage of the many personal and career develop-ment programmes offered, so you can start planningyour future career progression in plenty of time. Theseprogrammes include exchange schemes, workplacements, workshops, summer vacation schemesand volunteering opportunities which will enable youto make the most of your time at university. We canalso help you find part-time work when you’re here,through the JobZone run by the Careers andEmployability Service.

‘Over 85% of our students are

satisfied with their overallexperience at Bangor, with thequality of teaching and computerfacilities rated particularly high.

’(Student Survey)

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With over 10,000 students from all over the world, Bangor offers you the chanceto become part of a vibrant student community situated in one of the mostattractive study locations in the UK and to study at a well-established universitywith an excellent reputation for both teaching and research.

The University is also situated in one of the most vibrant bilingual areas in the UK andpromoting the Welsh language is integral to the University’s vision. In Gwynedd (the countywhere Bangor is situated) around 70% of the population can speak Welsh, and both Welsh andEnglish can be seen and heard in all aspects of life. The University is proud of the area’s richcultural and linguistic heritage and will continue to play a leading role in fostering this culturalvitality.

While the University remains an important resource for local people, over half of our studentscome from outside Wales. This is a higher proportion than the average for all Welsh universitiesand colleges.

All our courses are taught in English, although for Welsh speakers there are opportunities tostudy a range of courses through the medium of Welsh. Over 25% of our students speak bothWelsh and English, while 65% of staff are bilingual or are learning Welsh. Bangor is recognisedas one of the world’s leading universities in terms of research on bilingualism and languagetechnologies.

Over half of our students are female, reflecting the national trend in growing participation inhigher education by women. We recruit students from all sorts of backgrounds and areparticularly popular with students who value the smaller community feel which the Universityand city of Bangor offer.

Over 10 per cent of our full-time students come from 25 European Union and 79 othercountries worldwide. Some come from as far as Bangladesh, Brunei, Chile, Ghana, Japan,Kazakhstan, Libya, Vietnam and the US. Those from the Republic of Ireland benefit from goodtravel links and are particularly attracted by our courses in healthcare, biological sciences,business and electronics.

WHO CHOOSESTO STUDY ATBANGOR?

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‘The best thing about Bangor

is living in a place of naturalbeauty and attending auniversity of high standard atthe same time. This is a uniqueopportunity not possible in a lotof other cities in the world. I feelvery lucky that I can study here!

Bangor University is outstandingalso in the support given to thestudent. You get help from themoment of visiting Bangor forthe first time. Whether you arelost in the complicated terms ofyour tenancy agreement or feelhomesick after the first coupleof weeks, there is alwayssomeone you can talk to. TheUniversity helps you to enjoyyour time spent here as muchas possible… I find newer andnewer opportunities every day. Iam so happy that my teachersare professors who are amongthe best in their field. Yet I thinkthe biggest opportunity Bangorhas given me is meeting peoplefrom all over the world. Theexperiences one can get in thisinternational atmosphere isinvaluable.

Choose Bangor if you feel likeyou would like to spend your uniyears in a friendly, small citywhich is full of students. If youcan’t live without traffic jamsand skyscrapers – gosomewhere else! But don’t besurprised if you feel sorry fornot coming here!

’TIMEA REISINGER, from Budapest,Hungary, is studying in the Schoolof Psychology

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We welcome applications from students who have taken abreak from study. The latest figures show that our proportion ofmature students is higher than many other UK universities andcolleges. More information for mature students can be found onpage 62, and our entry policy is set out on page 66.

We offer various part-time and lifelong learning opportunities.For example, degrees are offered on a part-time (evening) studybasis at several different locations and we have over 3,000students registered on our courses across North Wales (manyare based at their local colleges). See page 64 for moreinformation about part-time study and lifelong learningopportunities, ranging from NVQs and HE certificates to part-time BA degrees and Masters awards. Information about otherpart-time options can also be found on page 51.

Around 700 of our students have disabilities or special supportneeds of some kind, including dyslexia. We will do all we can toprovide access to our courses and to support you through yourstudy. See page 54 for more details of the help and support thatis available, and page 68 for advice on your application to Bangor.

‘It’s a reputable university, with a very

friendly and fresh environment. The Englishdepartment is very approachable if I everhave any problems. It is also situated on thecoast which makes for great days out…Bangor is a small city, but small isn’tnecessarily a bad thing. Everything is withinwalking distance and there are also a lot ofdifferent shops and places to eat.

My advice to prospective students would belearn how to cook, clean and do the washing.Your parents won’t be there to bail you out!

’SAM COMERY, from Shropshire, studying English Literature

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‘Bangor’s size only

makes it better – easierto make friends, cheapercost of living...

’

‘Student support at Bangor is second to none, and

it all starts in Freshers’ Week. Bangors’ Peer Guidingsystem has been used as an example for otherUniversities and having been on both sides of it, Ifeel I can fully appreciate how helpful it is. However,the support doesn’t stop after Freshers Week; thesePeer Guides are there all year to help. Also, thelecturers are so approachable and Student Servicesand the Students’ Union have everything you couldpossibly need…

Another brilliant thing about Bangor is the amountof opportunity it offers, there is literally a society foreverything and, if you find something new, you canstart your own society. I’m involved in a fewsocieties and find it’s a great way to meet people,gain skills and enjoy a hobby.

I think Bangor and the surrounding area is beautiful.It is so scenic and never gets boring… In Bangoritself, everything is so close; you never have to walkmore than 20 minutes to wherever you need to be –be it lectures, food or socializing. And when walkingthrough town or to lectures you bump into so manypeople you know from societies, lectures, halls – itreally brightens your day.

’DOMINIC MALGERI, seen left, from Cleveleys,Lancashire, studying Religious Studies

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‘I looked at a number of

different universitiesacross the UK but foundthat I felt most at homewhen visiting Bangor. Iattended three Open Daysaltogether, and enjoyedlearning so much aboutuniversity life here. Whilstthe uni was far fromhome, I felt as though a bigchange would benefit megreatly – my parents alsofell in love with the placeand recommended it to me.

The people in Bangor wereso friendly and welcomingwhen I first arrived and wastrying to settle in. Although I was terrifiedwhen I first arrived, I settled in really quicklyand made friends with everyone on mycorridor. There were loads of activitiesorganised during Freshers Week – beachtrips, BBQs, walks, etc – to meet otherstudents which were great fun too. I joined themountain walking club, the book club andsigned up for dance classes, which Iabsolutely loved.

Bangor is such a great place to live in, not tooexpensive which is always great for students.There is so much to do here, great places tovisit and the scenery is incredible. Whenyou’re stressed out with work, you can’t beat anice stroll down to the pier, along the Strait.And then there’s Snowdon and the beachesfor even more fun!

Definitely the social life has made myuniversity experience – the people here arelovely and I’m sure I’ve made some friends forlife. I’d say the experience in general has beenamazing, and I’m so glad that I chose Bangorto study.

’JESSICA CHARLES, from Evesham,Worcestershire, studying Psychology with Child& Language Development

‘I wanted to make the right

choice for me so I read on theBangor website about themodules within the course, thenstarted to get excited as itsounded exactly like the subjectareas that I loved. Then I saw theMain Arts building and fell in lovewith it!

Bangor feels like a University thatreally cares for its students. Thelecturers often offer extra help inunderstanding material, andeveryone has a personal tutor toturn to. I can’t count the times I’veused Student Services, mostly forcareers advice and for my dyslexichelp. All the staff are veryfriendly.’

KATIE LLOYD-BAKER, from Medway, Kent,studying Zoology

‘The School of Ocean

Sciences is brilliant, with allstaff approachable andwilling to help. When I waslooking at universities,Bangor stood out from otheruniversities in all areas andit hasn’t disappointed…Studying Ocean Science atBangor means I have accessto some of the best UKacademics in the field. Ourresearch vessel, the PrinceMadog, allows us to gainessential experience whichmakes us stand out aspotential employees.

’ALAN KAVANAGH, from Essex, studying MarineBiology & Oceanography

‘It was Bangor and its surroundings which really drew me to study

here. It felt like the perfect size place for me with everything I neededclose by but not too big that it felt daunting.

I came to the Autumn Open Day and enjoyed looking around theUniversity and city. I was impressed by the organisation of the day andthe helpfulness of staff and students – I was made to feel right athome!

The social life can be fantastic here – it’s a matter of going out andgetting involved. There’s always lots to see and do whether it bewalking in Snowdonia, learning ballet, or volunteering and workingwith local people. I was involved in lots of societies and clubs in mythree years here – maybe too many at times – there’s so much tochoose from!

I think Bangor is perfect for students moving away from home andstarting a new life at Uni. It has everything you could need but is nottoo big – I don’t think I’ve ever got lost in Bangor! The surroundingarea is just gorgeous, from castles in Conway and Caernarfon torivers, waterfalls and the stunning mountains of Snowdonia.

’KLOE WOOD LYNDORFF, from West Cork, Ireland, studying Zoology withConservation

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‘I chose to study at Bangor because I got a

good impression of the place during theOpen Day, and knew instantly that I wouldbe at home here. I was attracted to the areabecause there are a variety of things to dohere, and the academic departments madea lot of effort to welcome us all to the OpenDay. The fact that I won a scholarship worth£3,000 also helped me to make my decision,and the financial support has been crucial inthe last two years.

’LLINOS ANN WILLIAMS, seen left, fromCeredigion, studying Welsh and Welsh History

‘When I typed Bangor, North Wales into

Google, I found that the city is known asThe City of Learning and I thought tomyself, why not be a part of this learning?So as my search went on I got to know thatit’s also well established and was foundedin 1884. The School in which I wanted tostudy was also very well known.

Because I would be studying miles awayfrom home, I wanted the University to belike a second home and I really felt like itwas my home away from home. The warmwelcoming culture of the people around,the greenery and the structure; everythingwas so perfect that I fell in love with theplace.

’ANTHONY ALBUQUERQUE, seen above,from India, studying Electronic Engineering

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‘Any new student starting afresh in a new place would truly benefit from living in Halls.

When you are away from home it is great to have so many people to turn to – most in thesame position as yourself, and you build up so many friendships. One thing about halls isthat you know you are always safe, what with the Hall Wardens, Security Officers and otherstudents.

’SAMANTHA DAVIES, from Hereford

ACCOMMODATIONGUARANTEED

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At Bangor, we are fortunate inbeing able to guaranteeaccommodation to all single,undergraduate first-year studentswho make an application within theprescribed period.

As a University we encourage youto apply for a place in Halls ofResidence as living in a residenceprovides the best introduction touniversity life. Residences areplaces to develop strong bonds offriendship, to meet people fromdifferent backgrounds and culturesand to enjoy a sense of community.Many friendships made in hallsreally do last a lifetime!

WHY LIVE IN HALLSOF RESIDENCE?

WHAT TYPE OFACCOMMODATIONIS AVAILABLE?

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‘Living in Halls

has been amazing,it’s a great way tomake friends, andgenerally shareyour experiencewith people justlike you. Living onFfriddoedd Site isalso extremelyconvenient withthe launderettes,security and BarUno all on site andit’s all just 10-15mins away fromanywhere else intown.’ELENA NEOPHYTOU, from

Cyprus, studyingPsychology

All accommodation is self-catered,and kitchens are shared with fellowhalls students. Equipment providedin the kitchens varies fromresidence to residence, but all willhave basic facilities such ascookers, fridges and freezers.Students need to bring their owncutlery, pots, pans and crockery.

Standard accommodation(shared facilities)Standard self-cateredaccommodation has privatebedrooms and shared bathroomand kitchen facilities.

En-suite accommodationSelf-catered en-suite rooms featurebedrooms with a private showerand toilet in a more recently builtresidence.

WHERE IS THEACCOMMODATION?

All the residential sites inBangor are within walkingdistance of the city centre andmain university departments– our halls are so convenientyou won’t have to spend yourmoney on bus fares or petrolto travel to and from halls.

Please see our website forup-to-date informationwww.bangor.ac.uk/accommodation

Please note: this information is correct atthe time of printing.

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FFRIDDOEDD SITEThe largest accommodation site isin Upper Bangor, about 10 minuteswalk from College Road, theScience buildings and the citycentre. The site has a cateringoutlet, launderettes and commonrooms. The rooms on this site arepredominantly en-suite.

Also on site is Bar Uno, the studentcafe-bar, serving meals and drinksfrom breakfast through to dinner,and Maes Glas, the University’ssports and leisure centre.

BRYN EITHIN SITESituated on a hill overlooking thecentre of Bangor, this hall is ideallysituated for a range of shops, and iscentrally located for Bangor CityCentre. Bedrooms here haveshared facilities. This hall isespecially suited to postgraduatestudents.

NORMAL SITESituated on the shores of the MenaiStrait next to Education and theSchool of Sport, Health andExercise Sciences, this site has abistro, shop, launderette, commonrooms and computing facilities, andis close to the University runningtrack. All bedrooms have sharedbathroom facilities.

WHAT OTHERFACILITIESARE THERE?

Our accommodation sites aresituated throughout the city so youare never far from shops, pubs andcafes of all types.

We provide a range of eating venueswhich are open to all. These aresituated on the Ffriddoedd Site (BarUno), the Normal Site (Y Bistro), inthe Main Arts Building (Café Teras)and in the Environment CentreWales Building (Caffi Glas).

All our catering outlets use localand Fairtrade products wheneverpossible.

For more details:www.bangor.ac.uk/eo/catering

Also situated on the Ffriddoedd Siteis the University Sports Centre,Maes Glas, with extensive indoorand outdoor sports facilitiesincluding state-of-the-art CVequipment, climbing wall and allweather pitch.

Contact us on 01248 382571 ore-mail maesglas@bangor.ac.uk

HOW DO I FINDOUT MORE?

Visit the University website at www.bangor.ac.uk/studentlife, and theaccommodation pages at www.bangor.ac.uk/accommodation

Come to a University Open Day and, in addition to visiting academic Schoolsand speaking to students and staff, you can visit the residences. ContactStudent Recruitment on 01248 388143 or e-mail openday@bangor.ac.uk

Stay in a University Residence during the Summer vacation (start of June tomid-September). Contact Conference Services on 01248 388399 or e-mailconferences@bangor.ac.uk

If you are visiting the area, please give us a call beforehand to arrange avisit to the University. Contact Student Recruitment on 01248 388143 ore-mail visits@bangor.ac.uk

For specific Halls enquiries call the Halls Office on 01248 382667 or e-mailhalls@bangor.ac.uk

Internet accessAll single study bedrooms haveinternet access, but you need tobring your own PC!

Accommodation for Welshspeakers and learnersOne residence offers the opportunityfor students to immerse themselvesin a Welsh language environment.There is a vibrant social scene witha wide range of activities arrangedby the students. The residence hasits own common room and a uniquecommunity spirit.

Accommodation for thosewith special needsWhen you apply you should indicateany special needs that might affectthe accommodation you require.Our Disability Adviser will thenassess your case and advise theHalls Office about youraccommodation. We have a numberof accessible rooms available.

Wardens and SecurityThe Halls have Senior Wardens anda large team of Wardens. TheWardens are responsible forcommunal life, student welfare anddiscipline. They assist with allpastoral care and help foster afriendly community spirit in theHalls. In addition, although Bangoris a relatively safe place to live witha low crime rate, there are SecurityStaff on call 24 hours a day.

HOW MUCHWILL IT COST?

Bangor has a lower cost of living than many parts of the UK and Hall feesreflect this – they also include all bills for internet, heating, electricity andhot water! Hall fees are calculated for the full academic session but, as aguide, 2010-11 fees equated to these approximate weekly figures:

• Shared Facilities: from £70.00• En-suite Facilities: from £92.00

All accommodation is self-catered

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25

SOCIAL LIFE & THESTUDENTS’ UNION

STUDENT LIFE

26

Much of your social life at University willrevolve around the Students’ Union, whichprovides services, support, activities andentertainment for students.

To get the most out of your time at University,the Students’ Union encourages you to getinvolved in the wide range of activities offered,as it’s an ideal way to meet new people and trynew things.

You can become involved in the running of the Unionand its services – which range from an advice centre tovolunteering projects – or take part in the manyactivities offered. You can pursue existing or newinterests through the range of clubs and societies onoffer – there are almost 100 in total, varying fromsocieties such as film, photography and drama to sportclubs such as canoeing, football and surfing. TheUnion’s Give it a Go programme is your chance to trydifferent clubs and societies without necessarily havingto make a commitment. You can also get involved withthe student newspaper or Storm FM, the student radiostation.

On the entertainment side, recent events have includedperformers such as Mr Hudson, Tinie Tempah,Pendulum, Ordinary Boys, Athlete, The PigeonDetectives, We Are Scientists, Lisa Lashes, Mr Scruffand Alan Fletcher (Dr Karl Kennedy). Regular favouritesare 60s, 70s, and 80s nights, Trash (rock and metal),Racubah (funk, reggae and Latin music), Nation (chart,pop and dance) and Move on Up, Elevate andManipulate (dance nights). The Students’ Union alsoorganises one of the biggest nights of the year – theannual Summer Ball, when the entertainment and end-of-year celebrations continue well into the next day.

As far as the Bangor area isconcerned though, the main eventin recent months was undoubtedlyBBC Radio 1’s Big Weekend, whichbrought big name performerssuch as Rihanna, JLS, Cheryl Cole,Dizzee Rascal, Pendulum,Florence and the Machine andPaolo Nutini to town.

In the run-up to last year’s BigWeekend, Radio 1 DJs Greg Jamesand Chris Moyles and their teamsbroadcast their shows from thearea, and some students werelucky enough to take part inevents such as masterclasses andQ&A sessions jointly organised byRadio 1 and the University. Theaim for the majority of Bangorstudents though was to actuallyget a ticket for the Big Weekenditself – an event which proved tobe as amazing as predicted…

WHAT IS THE STUDENTS’ UNION?

The Students’ Union represents students on all matters, whetheracademic, competitive or social. A separate entity from the University, theUnion strives to get the best for you and create a unique studentexperience. The Union represents every student in Bangor, be theyundergraduate, postgraduate, mature, international or part-time.

The Students’ Union exists to promote your welfare and interests, and to provide achannel of communication between you and the University. The Union offers a range ofservices, including an advice centre where student issues are dealt with in confidence.

‘The social life is never ending in Bangor.

It may be a small city but it’s packed withplaces and activities for all types of people.There are sports clubs, which all hold theirown weekly socials, bars, pubs and clubs,the pier, beaches, nature walks, museumsand libraries. Life is cheap and manyplaces hold ‘pound a pint’ nights.

’CHARLOTTE WILKIN, from Maidstone, Kent,studying Psychology

‘The pubs in Bangor have a great

friendly atmosphere and are all withineasy reach of one another which makesnights out a lot of fun! And the size ofBangor means it’s impossible not to runinto someone you know.

’JULIA GABBITASfrom Rugby, studying SHAPE with Psychology

27

‘The social life in Bangor is fun

– I’m in the scuba andcheerleading clubs and I willalso be hosting my own radioshow… My advice for anyoneconsidering applying to Bangorwould be, if you don’t want tolive somewhere busy then comehere. The people are down toearth and don’t take life tooseriously. It’s loads of fun and Iwould highly recommend it.

’CLARE THATCHER, from London, studyingPsychology with Neuroscience

28

‘There are loads of pubs

and a few clubs in Bangor.Wednesday night is AthleticUnion night, where variousAU clubs put on a themednight in some clubs – it’salways great fun and veryenjoyable.

’STEVEN CHRISTIAN, from Essex, studyingZoology with Animal Behaviour

‘Bangor is great for its clubs and

societies, I am a member of BRL(Rugby League) and BUMS(Mountaineering Society). They are bothvery active societies with great socials.Bangor’s nightlife is like nowhere I’vebeen before. Despite the fact there’sonly a couple of clubs, I rarely have abad night, and it’s cheap!

I found it really easy to settle in here.My flatmates are all really fun, and youmake a lot more friends when you getinvolved in societies as well. Also,because Bangor is quite small, younever get lost. It’s a really friendlyplace.

’DAVID WHITE, from Stockport, studyingZoology with Conservation

‘There was so much music to enjoy,

it was difficult to decide which perfor-mances to watch… The atmospherewas electric, and the hot weatheralso helped to make it an amazingweekend for all who were there…

’

29

Your time at university provides an idealopportunity to try out a new activity forthe first time with like-minded people.The various student-run clubs andsocieties cover a range of hobbies, sportsand other interests. Held at the start ofthe academic year, the annual Freshers Fair will give you an opportunity to findout more about activities, ranging fromarchaeology and drama to scouts andwar gaming. Amongst the Students’Union’s diverse range of clubs andsocieties, you’ll also find some that willcomplement your academic studies, suchas the Law Society, the GeographicalSociety, the Archaeological Society andEndeavour, the Ocean Sciences Society. Ifyou can't find a club that appeals to you,then you can set one up with the help ofthe Union.

You could also join with other students towork for the benefit of the local comm-unity through Student VolunteeringBangor. This is a student-led charitythat’s involved with projects with theyoung, the elderly and the disabled,amongst others. Currently there arearound 300 student volunteers who givetheir time to assist members of the localcommunity, improving the lives of thosethey help while also developing newskills and friendships. The skills andexperience you gain through volunteeringwill be attractive to employers and thereis the chance to gain accreditation foryour involvement with Student Volun-teering Bangor.

CLUBS ANDSOCIETIES

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STUDENT CLUBS& SOCIETIES ATBANGOR INCLUDE:

Afro-CaribbeanArcanii (English Literature)ArchaeologyArtBaasoc (Beer & Ale)BEDS (Drama)Brass BandBUFFS (Film)BUGS (Guides & Scouts)ChineseChristian UnionDJForestryHellenicHerpetologyIndian IslamicJapaneseLawMalaysianPaintballingPhotographicROSTRA (Amateur Dramatics)Seren (English Language Newspaper)SODA (Opera and Drama)Speculative AnalysisStudent Volunteering BangorWargaming & Role PlayingY Llef (Welsh Language Newspaper)

1

2

3

1 Chinese Society2 Guides and Scouts3 Mountain Climbing

4 Opp. page:Snow Sports at the Freshers Fair

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‘I’m a member of the Rowing Club,

where there’s a great teamatmosphere. Everyone is energeticand friendly with socials spilling intotraining sessions. With Bangor beinga small university city you nearlyalways see people whom you knowand then friends of friends becomefriends.’

ALAN KAVANAGHfrom Essex, studying Biology & Oceanography

‘I decided to study at

Bangor because I found it tobe the perfect size formyself, coming from asmall rural village - beingsmall enough to allow youto meet people you knowevery time you go some-where, yet big enough toconstantly be meeting newpeople as well... Being amember of the MusicSociety has given me avaried social life as thesociety has a variety ofsocial events, fromsocialising in rehearsals, tofancy dress events andformal dinners.

’IMOGEN CAVADINO, from Crickhowell,South Wales, studying English andMusic

‘Clubs and societies are plentiful

and there’s so much choice. Thevariety is great and means that thereis something for everyone. You willnever feel lonely or bored at any timeof the day/night.

’ANNABEL ROSIERfrom Plymouth, studying Psychology

‘Bangor is one of the most attractive study

destinations in the UK and has everything forstudents who love the great outdoors:climbing, mountain biking, paragliding,canoeing, sailing and surfing – whether onland, sea or air, everyone is catered for.

’SUNDAY TIMES UNIVERSITY GUIDE

SPORTINGLIFE ANDTHE GREATOUTDOORS

32

‘I chose Bangor because I love the surrounding

area and all it offers. I enjoy doing outdoor sports, sowith the mountains and sea on my doorstep it’sperfect.

I’m a member of the BU Dance team, and perform inlocal clubs and competitions. I am also a keenrunner and enjoy orienteering. The climbing club isalso an amazing experience!

’JESSICA HURD, from Leicester, studying Sport Science

‘Social life is compact but really good. I am

in the 1st hockey team and am going to bethe fitness coach for next year. The club isfull of genuine guys and girls which makesthe social side very social and fun!

The surrounding area is immense. There areviews of the straits, the mountains and seaon the doorstep! The surrounding area is sodiverse that you could be on a beach one dayand up Snowdon the next.

’CHESTER CAMPBELL, from London, studying Psychology

If you are already interested in outdoor pursuits you will bespoilt for choice by the full range of opportunities availableright on our doorstep, from climbing and hillwalking toparagliding and water sports.

Even if you’re not that energetic you can enjoy the scenery at amore leisurely pace. However, we are sure that you’ll bethrilled with the excellent sports and leisure facilities we haveto offer.

SPORTS AND LEISURE FACILITIES

Maesglas, our main sports and leisure centre is situated at theheart of the main student residential site. It has two mainsports halls, three well-equipped gyms for cardiovascularexercise and weight training, a gymnastics hall, a multi-routeclimbing wall with ascents of varying difficulty and abouldering section, plus four international-standard squashcourts. For more details: www.bangor.ac.uk/maesglas

Out of doors we have grass pitches for football and rugby, all in sites ofscenic beauty, a floodlit synthetic pitch for hockey games and training, andtwo multi-purpose facilities for tennis, five-a-side football and netball.

We also have shared use with Gwynedd Council of an athletics track.Nearby there is yet another sports hall and two gymnasiums which areused in the evenings and weekends by the Athletic Union clubs for trainingand group activities.

In Bangor itself there is a 25-metre swimming pool with aquaslide. Otherpopular local attractions include the ten-pin bowling alleys in Llandudnoand the dry-ski slope at the National Mountaineering Centre at CapelCurig.

SPORTS SCHOLARSHIPS

The University supports students with sporting ability byoffering a number of Sports Scholarships for students readingfor any degree (see page 60 for more details). Maesglasbursaries allow free access to the training rooms in theMaesglas Sports Centre, and a major University award, theLlew Rees Memorial Prize (£750), is awarded annually to themost successful sportsperson in the University.

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ATHLETIC UNION

The Athletic Union is the part of theStudents’ Union that looks after itssporting activities. There are currentlyover 40 teams and clubs at Bangor,ranging from rugby to football tooctopush and trampolining. Bangor’sunique location also means that there isplenty of chance to scale the mountainsthat surround it.

This means that you have the opportunityto try something new as well as carry onwith a sport that you already participatein. Each club is welcoming and friendly,with many social events alongside thesporting activities.

SPORTS CLUBS

American FootballArcheryAthleticsBadmintonBasketball (men and women)Canoe PoloCheerleadersCricketDanceFencingFootball (men and women)Gaelic Football (men and women)GolfGymnasticsHockey (men and women)Jiu-JitsuJudoKi-AikidoMixed LacrosseMountain BikingMountaineeringMountain WalkingNetballOctopush (underwater hockey)OrienteeringRidingRowingRugby LeagueRugby Union (men and women)SailingSnowsportsSub-AquaSurfingSwimmingTable TennisTennisTrampoliningUltimate FrisbeeVolleyballWakeboarding

Other sports can be followedindividually in the local area.

‘I am a member of the ladies

hockey team which is great fun,and also the social secretary forthe Geography Society. Althoughthere aren’t many night clubs, thesocial life is enough to keep meentertained! There is alwayssomething going on…

The highlight of being a student atBangor is having freedom to dowhatever I like - being able to climbSnowdon one day and lie on abeach on the next. It’s big enoughto be kept busy, but small enoughthat the whole city feels like theuniversity campus.

’REBEKAH BELL, from Huntingdon, Cambridge,studying Geography

‘It’s a great location, 20 minutes from Snowdonia, and right next to the sea! If you’re into the

outdoors, then Bangor is the perfect university... I play for the canoe polo team and am socialsecretary for the club. The social life is close but lively, events are frequent and the people youare with is what makes the nights out so good...

’SAM MURPHY, from the Isle of Man, studying Sports Science (Outdoor Activities)

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35

‘Bangor’s location means

that the University isexceptionally well-situatedand well-equipped forstudents interested in sport.There are over 40 sportsteams and clubs at Bangor,ranging from football andrugby to octopush andtrampolining.

’THE COMPLETE UNIVERSITY GUIDE

36 36

There’s no getting away from it –the location, the scenery and thesurrounding area are amongstthe reasons why many of ourstudents choose to come toBangor. One thing’s for sure, allthis on your doorstep definitelyadds a different dimension tostudent life...

The many attractions of Snowdonia and thecoastline for sports enthusiasts have alreadybeen mentioned – but even if you’re not theoutward bound type there’s still plenty toexplore in the surrounding area. You can visithistorical towns such as Beaumaris, Conwyand Caernarfon (all with their own castles) orscenic villages like Llanberis, Beddgelert andBetws y Coed. The beaches on the nearbyisland of Anglesey are popular spots forsunbathing and swimming and if you fancy atrip further afield to Ireland, then Holyhead’sthe departure point for day trips to Dublin.

Good road and rail connections along theNorth Wales coast mean you can easily visitthe Victorian seaside resort of Llandudno, andeven Chester and Liverpool for shopping tripsor nights out further afield. Heading in theopposite direction, towards the Llyn peninsula,you’ll find popular seaside destinations suchas Abersoch and Pwllheli, which are the mainvenues for the Wakestock Festival, Europe’slargest wakeboard music event.

LOCATION AND THE SURROUNDINGAREA

36

‘It’s a beautiful place with

stunning scenery. The lecturersand staff are very friendly andthe university has a communityfeel about it.

Settling in here was mucheasier than I expected. Of courseonce your parents have droppedyou off on that first day the panicsets in but you have to be braveand knock on people’s doorsand introduce yourself! Onceyou’ve done that it’s easy! ThePeer Guides make WelcomeWeek so much fun, everything isplanned and ready for you to getinvolved with, but you don’t haveto go out every night, there arefilm nights and quiz nights, it’snot all about the drink.

There’s always plenty of peopleto talk to, or help with problemsin work, finance or personal life.The staff are very friendly andeveryone has a personal tutorwho you can talk to aboutanything. The Students’ Union isalso there to help and supportstudents, and there’s a Nightlinenumber to call if you are in needof a chat at night.

As a History student, Bangorwas a good choice – thearchaeological sites are great,there are so many differentsettlements to visit on field trips.Bangor’s given me theopportunity to see places Iwould never have been able toexperience otherwise, likeSnowdonia and the MenaiStrait.

’CAROLINE SCOTTfrom Canterbury, Kent, studyingHistory

‘I don’t think there is anywhere quite like Bangor!

It has breathtaking views of the mountains andstunning beaches on your doorstep.

I decided to study here as it is a very friendlyenvironment with amazing outdoor opportunitiessuch as surfing and climbing… I came to aPsychology Open Day and was most impressed byhow approachable the teaching staff were, andhow close and welcoming the whole departmentwas.

Everyone has a personal tutor, a peer guide andhalls warden, and there is support in all areas forany concerns – whether it is personal, financial oracademic.

Bangor has given me opportunities I never thoughtI would have: I can surf or mountain climb at theweekends, I can participate in ground breakingresearch in Psychology and I can study in one ofthe most beautiful locations in the country.

My advice for anyone applying to Bangor would beto explore the area around Bangor – it’s fantastic!In my mind, the best thing about being a student atBangor are the opportunities that nowhere elsecould provide – fantastic research facilities,stunning views, welcoming and friendly people.

’SERIN HARTOPP, from Devon, studying Psychology

37

‘There are so many highlights

to my time here! I’ve loved beingin such a beautiful place, andreally enjoyed all the clubs andsocieties. I’ve tried so many newsports I would never have gotthe chance to before. Alsoexploring the wider area hasbeen fab – from surfing inRhosneigr beach to climbing theSnowdon horseshoe andwatching harbour porpoise offBull Bay. Fantastic!

’KLOE WOOD LYNDORFF, from West Cork, Ireland,studying Zoology with Conservation

To help you settle in to university life, meet plenty of newpeople and make Bangor feel like home, we organise aWelcome Week for Freshers (the term we use for newstudents).

The aim is to give you an exciting, busy and fun-packed first week, so thatyou have no time to get bored or miss home! For instance, you’ll attend anofficial welcome to the University, register as a student, choose yourmodules, and become a member of the Students' Union. Your AcademicSchool and the Students' Union will organise various activities during theweek, and the Peer Guides will be everywhere to help you find your wayaround.

WHAT HAPPENS IN WELCOME WEEK?

• There is no academic work in this week.

• You will register for your course and finalise your choice of modules.

• You will meet your personal tutor.

• We arrange a variety of entertainment and social events to help you tomeet other students.

• We hold a 2-day Freshers’ Fair where you can find out about all thedifferent social and sporting activities – from walking clubs to the musicsociety. Try them out and join up if you enjoy them!

• You can open your student bank account, if you haven’t already set oneup, and investigate the range of services that the Students’ Union offers.

• We hold a special Orientation and Welcome day for internationalstudents, and organise a coach tour of the surrounding area.

• Peer Guides from your academic School will help you find your wayaround during the week, and will organise social events and activities tohelp you meet others and settle in.

• The Student Services Centre will hold meetings and informationsessions on issues such as student funding and finding part-time work,as well as informal ‘drop-in’ sessions for those wanting a coffee and achat.

PEER GUIDES

Bangor is renowned for the warmwelcome we offer new studentsand much of this is due to ourhighly successful Peer GuideScheme.

All our Peer Guides are students.They’re the best people to helpyou acclimatise; after all, it isn’tthat long since they were newstudents themselves. They’ve allbeen trained and will be on handto help you settle in so that youfind your feet, both within youracademic School and socially.

You can’t miss them with theirbrightly coloured T-shirts and bigsmiles. They’ll show you around,listen to any worries you mayhave and answer those nigglylittle questions that you don’t wantto ask a member of staff. And ifthey don’t know the answer they’llknow a man who does!

You’ll see a lot of your Peer Guidesover Welcome Week but it doesn’tall stop there. They’ll be on handfor as long as you feel you need alittle help. And of course onceyou’ve settled you might want tobecome a Peer Guide yourself;you’d not only be helping others,you’d be helping yourself – as theskills developed by Peer Guidesare valued by future employers.

ABOUT THE SCHEME

Bangor’s Peer Guide scheme is oneof the largest in the country, andwas recently shortlisted for a UKaward for Outstanding StudentSupport at the Times HigherEducation’s annual awardsceremony. The scheme matches upnew students with current secondand third year students who act asmentors, who arrange socialactivities, show students aroundand generally give advice, from thebest place to shop – to signpostingwhere to go in the University foracademic or other support.

“Students volunteer to becomePeer Guides’ as they remember thefantastic welcome that theyreceived during their own first fewweeks at University, and genuinelywant to give something back. Theyare thoroughly trained beforehandso that they become effective‘signposts’ to services and supportwithin the University” said KimDavies, the University’s Peer Guideco-ordinator.

WELCOMEWEEK

38

PEER GUIDES SAY FRESHERS WHOWERE GUIDED SAY

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‘When you start at university everything is a

bit daunting, so it helps having someone topoint you in the right direction, and going toanother student is always easier than going toa lecturer

’

‘It was extremely easy to settle in during

welcome week, the peer guides were at handto show us all around, there were tons offlyers detailing what was going on during thewhole week, and with all the help from all theevents taking place it was also easy to makelots of friends.

’

‘Welcome Week was very relaxed because

the peer guides were so helpful. There wasalways someone you could call or text if yougot lost and they show you all the places to goon a night out and organize loads of socialevents…

’

‘Thanks to Bangor's Peer Guides I was able

to settle in so easily and make lots of friendswho have now turned into my Universityfamily.

’

‘It’s all about helping freshers who are arriving

at University. They may be nervous and may beaway from home for the first time. It’s a friendlyface, a helping hand, someone who knows theropes and knows where things are and how thesystem works...

’

‘Welcome Week is just so

very easy, your life is plannedout for you – you don’t havetime to feel lost or unsure!People are sensitive to you aswell, there is a lot of supportfrom halls wardens and peerguides. There are also loadsof events planned tospecifically get you talking topeople.’

‘The Peer Guides help you

to relax in a newenvironment, whilst showingyou a good time.

’

‘The Peer Guides made me

feel included from the minuteI arrived.’

‘I became a Peer Guide

because my Peer Guides inthe first year were fantasticand really helped me settle inso I wanted to do the samefor others. It’s an excellentscheme and helps create thewelcoming feel the Universityhas become known for...

’

‘I remember what a nerve-

wracking time the first weekat University was, so want tohelp new students to enjoytheir first week and hopefullythe rest of their time inBangor...’

‘The Peer Guide

programme is one of thebest in the UK. This is animportant part of the‘settling in’ process withPeer Guides being a firstcontact point for anyissues which may arise.

During Welcome Week,everyone was extremelyfriendly and this made iteasy to make friends. PeerGuides showed us theropes and made sure wewere safe. Everything waswell planned with manyactivities organised by theSU, JCR and academicdepartments.

’ALAN KAVANAGH, from Essex, studying Marine Biology & Oceanography

‘Welcome Week

was great – I wasvery worriedabout not havingfriends before Igot to university,but the entireweek was packedwith fun activitiesthat made meand my classmates open up

and gave us the opportunity to get to knoweach other. Without Welcome Week I wouldn’thave half the friends I have now.

’ANNABEL ROSIER, from Plymouth, studying Psychology

‘I am currently living in Garth and I am thoroughly enjoying the

welcoming atmosphere and general friendliness of the students and staff.It is great to know that there is always someone to talk to and it is almostimpossible to feel lonely.

The support for students at this University is overwhelming. Universitystaff are only a click away from solving any query you may have, due tothe fantastic on-line Blackboard system. First year students are alsoallocated Peer Guides to guide them in the right direction.

The Welcome Week at Bangor was truly a memorable experience, eventhough I was slightly worried whether I would fit in before I arrived as Iam not much of a partier. However, my Halls friends respected this andwe did other activities such as pizza and DVD nights. From my first hourat Bangor I was greeted by many friendly faces which really helped mesettle in.

’OLIVIA LEE ROBINSONfrom Kinmel Bay, North Wales, studying Law

40

‘Welcome Week was packed full of

university tours, introductions andfun activities with my course mates.You’re kept so busy there’s no time tofeel homesick. Welcome Week flewby in a flash and I felt like I’d lived inBangor for months!

’EMMA HENBURYfrom Ross on Wye, Herefordshire, studying Music

41

For many students, higher education is a stepalong a path to many future opportunities. Withthe investment you will be making in both timeand money, you want to be sure that you willhave the best chances of success as agraduate. Our Careers and EmployabilityService provides a wide range of resources tohelp you achieve your graduate ambitions.

GRADUATE EMPLOYMENT OR FURTHER STUDY?Whatever your ideas might be, our expert andprofessionally-qualified careers staff are here to helpyou achieve your dreams. From the minute you arriveat Bangor we’ll be there to advise you and providepractical information on work experience, vacation jobs,term-time work and, of course, help you to identifywhat you’ll do after graduation. Because we want youto achieve your goals, we’ll even continue to supportyou for three years after graduation.

CAREERS ANDEMPLOYABILITYSERVICE

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‘Bangor has given me lots of chances to learn and

acquire skills outside of my degree subject. It’s givenme opportunities in volunteering and gaining workexperience, which is sought after by employers. I’vevolunteered at the Botanical Gardens, gainingexperience in gardening and team work; I’ve takenpart in Student Volunteering events, and also the£10 challenge organised by Careers & Employability,in which I learnt about business and marketing.

’KLOE WOOD LYNDORFF, from West Cork, Ireland,studying Zoology with Conservation

OUR EMPLOYABILITY SERVICES

We are committed to your personal andcareer development. To nurture thisdevelopment and enhance youremployability we provide a year-roundprogramme of individual guidance,workshops and employer talks.

To supplement these advice and guidanceservices we also run additional services thatprovide local part-time jobs, voluntaryexperience, summer work and projectplacements.

Hopefully the latter opportunities will help youacquire the necessary ‘employability’ skills thatare so highly sought-after by employers toaccompany your academic qualifications.

THE JOBZONEIt can be quite a daunting task to find work in anew area that you know nothing about but, don’tworry, the JobZone can help! We are theUniversity’s dedicated student employmentservice.

While you are studying, the JobZone can helpyou to find local part-time work around yourstudies and during the vacations. We alsoadvertise graduate vacancies with local andnational employers.

You can use our service online or visit us to usethe computers and look for opportunities in thelocal papers. We are also on hand to offer adviceon searching and applying for jobs.

WORK EXPERIENCE SCHEMESWork Experience is a critical factor in gainingfuture graduate employment. We recognise thisby providing you with advice and information ona wide range of term-time and vacation-basedwork experience opportunities, and even delivera programme of work placements from theCareers and Employability Service.

The highly regarded GO Wales Work PlacementProgramme is a paid work experience schemethat offers you the chance to work withemployers during term-time and the vacations,carrying out high-level projects. This enablesyou to develop work knowledge, businessawareness and commercial skills, whilst alsoearning some very welcome income! As part ofthe GO Wales Programme we also offer theWork Taster Programme which helps youundertake a period of work-shadowing,experiencing professions at first hand.

PEER GUIDE SCHEMEWe also run the nationally-recognised PeerGuide Scheme which is highly-regarded withinthe Higher Education sector. In fact, at ourrecent QAA (Quality Assurance Agency) review itwas identified as a particular example of goodpractice, and was recently shortlisted for theOutstanding Student Support award by theTimes Higher Education magazine.

Our Peer Guides are second and third-yearstudents who are trained to offer you a littlefriendly support as you settle in at Bangor.There are approximately 500 Peer Guides –that’s 1 for every 4-5 new students! Once you’veadjusted to being a student you too will get thechance to apply to be a Peer Guide ready for thenext year.

That’s where the Careers & EmployabilityService comes in. We recognise that while PeerGuides help others, they also help themselves.Being a Peer Guide offers our students the idealopportunity to participate more fully in studentlife as well as to develop interpersonal,organisational and problem-solving skills. Weknow that graduate employers recognise andvalue the experiences that being a Peer Guideoffer and can help you make the most of thoseexperiences as you enter the graduate jobmarket.

BANGOR EMPLOYABILITY AWARDThe Bangor Employability Award (BEA) schemeis designed to enhance the immediate andlonger term career prospects of Bangorstudents. Currently operating as a pilot schemewithin a small number of academic Schools, thescheme works in conjunction with the Students’Union and private, public and voluntary sectororganisations. It offers accreditation for co-curricular and extra-curricular activities (e.g.volunteering, clubs & societies, part-time work,learning a new language, etc.); such learningexperiences may not be formally recognisedwithin your academic degree programme, yetthey are valuable in the graduate jobs market.The BEA scheme provides a structure to enableyou to build transferable skills through therecognition of activities you would typicallybecome involved with during university life.

VOLUNTEERINGFor students interested in volunteering whilst atuniversity the Careers and Employability Servicecan help you arrange voluntary experiencethrough the GO Wales Work Taster Programme,Aspirational Mentoring Programme and thePeer Guiding Scheme. We also host recruitmentdays for local organisations and advertisenational and international volunteeringopportunities in our JobZone.

B-ENTERPRISING PROGRAMMEThis programme provides buddingentrepreneurs with enterprise and businesstraining and support. It will help you to considerand prepare for self-employment. We will alsohelp you to develop enterprise skills in order tomake you more successful whether you want tobe an employee or run your own business. Youwill learn how to network, think creatively,promote yourself or a product effectively as wellas develop more practical skills to do withstarting up a business.

ONLINE CAREERS ADVICEBecause we realise that students often needaccess to careers advice at short notice, weoffer online advice to supplement our usualguidance provision.

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Students from over 79 countries choose tostudy at Bangor every year and make up over10% of the total student population. Amongstthese countries, we have students from China,Brunei, Ghana, India, Nigeria, Libya, Vietnam,Bangladesh, USA, Taiwan, and numerousEuropean countries.

Further information is available at: www.bangor.ac.uk/international

INFORMATIONFORINTERNATIONALSTUDENTS

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ENTRY REQUIREMENTSWe make offers of entry based on qualificationsoffered worldwide. For further detailed information,please view the website:www.bangor.ac.uk/international/applying

If you have different qualifications, and you wish toreceive guidance about entry requirements, pleasewrite to the Admissions Office or send an e-mail to:admissions@bangor.ac.uk

Students from some countries are required toundertake a 1-year foundation programme in order toprepare and qualify for entry onto undergraduatedegree programmes.

INTERNATIONAL FOUNDATION COURSEThis course is run by ELCOS, our Unit which providesEnglish language, study skills and foundationprogrammes for international students. It runs fromSeptember to June and is designed for students withan IELTS level of 4.5 or more (5.0 preferred) who needto prepare for their degree course in Bangor. Subjectpreparation is given for a number of subjects such asbusiness studies, history, biological sciences andpsychology and this is combined with Englishlanguage and study skills courses.

Pre-Study English CourseIf you have an IELTS level of below 4.5 or equivalent,you will be advised to take the Pre-Study EnglishCourse at ELCOS, before beginning a foundation orpre-masters course with ELCOS.

Our students choose to study atBangor for many reasons, forexample:

• Over half of our Schoolsassessed to date (on behalf of theGovernment) have been awardedthe top rating of ‘excellent’.

• Our Schools are recognisedinternationally for excellence inresearch. Read more at:www.bangor.ac.uk/rae2008

• We have a strong internationalstudent community.

• Bangor is a compact city andconsidered a safe place to live.

• Bangor is easily reached from UKairports – 2 hours by train fromManchester International Airportand 3.5 hours by train fromLondon.

• The cost of living is lower than atmany other UK cities.

• It’s one of the most beautifulUniversity locations in the UK.

• The people of Bangor are friendlyand welcoming.

• Noise and pollution levels arelow, so you can enjoy a healthylifestyle.

• Most international students canwork part-time during term-timeand any number of hours duringholiday periods.

‘Bangor is a good place to study – it has good

scenery and is a quiet environment. The mainreason that I decided to study at Bangor was thesuperior faculty and facilities. There are also a widerange of programs for students to choose from.

There are a lot of societies and sports’ teams inBangor. Students can enjoy the student experiencewhen they are involved in these societies and sportsteams. As a member of the Chinese society, I’vebeen to several social activities and found it a goodway to build friendships and communicate withstudents from different countries.

Living in the Halls of Residence is very convenient.The accommodation provides you with comfortableliving conditions, you also make friends with yourflat mates and it is safe… The best thing about beinga student at Bangor is that it will boost your outlook,you can experience the superior teaching and it isalso a good way to learn about other cultures. Thecost of living in Bangor is lower than other places inthe UK, so it means that it will reduce your studycosts.

’MO JIAfrom China, studying Banking and Finance

A55

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Holyhead LiverpoolDublin

Belfast Carlisle

Leeds

Manchester

Hull

Sheffield

CreweWrexham

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Cardiff LONDON

Bristol

SouthamptonExeter

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Boulogne

Dover

BANGOR

Newcastle

GlasgowEdinburgh

AirportSea crossingMajor RoadsRailway

ENGLISH LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTSOur degree courses are taught and examined inEnglish, so to be successful in your studies youmust be able to communicate effectively inEnglish. That’s why all international students aregenerally required to have an English languagequalification before being accepted. You areexpected to have achieved the followingminimum standards:• TOEFL: minimum score of 560 with a TWE written score of 4, OR Computer-Based TOEFL220, OR

• IELTS: a minimum score of 6.0 with noindividual component score lower than 5.5, OR

• Cambridge Advanced or CambridgeProficiency.

Some courses may require higher scores.

ENGLISH LANGUAGE COURSESBefore your courseIf you are coming from overseas to start acourse in Bangor, we strongly recommend thatyou arrive early and take the one or two-monthpre-sessional course in English language andstudy skills at the University. Teaching methodscan vary immensely between countries,therefore you will not only develop your Englishskills in reading, writing, listening and speakingbut will also learn those study skills essential forsuccessful study in the UK, such as takinglecture notes, speaking in seminars, essaywriting skills, report techniques and doingpresentations. The course will also help you toadjust to life in north Wales, and we arrangeplenty of social events. We also provide generalEnglish communication courses during thesummer months.

During your courseInternational students can undertake Englishlanguage modules during term-time free ofcharge, whilst studying for undergraduatedegrees. Students believe these courses are ofgreat value as they support the development oftheir English language throughout the course. Inthe first year you may study 2 modules in eachsemester: Writing and Communicative Grammar(2 modules); Advanced English Speaking andListening, and Advanced English Vocabulary. Inthe second year, depending on your timetable,you may be able to take Integrated AdvancedEnglish Language Skills and Business English.

In addition, we provide continuing supportthrough evening classes in Academic Writingand General English and preparation for theCambridge First Certificate Advanced Englishand Proficiency exams. Academic Writing andGeneral English classes are free, but there is asmall charge for the Cambridge classes.

Details of ELCOS classes are available from:Elaine Pritchard, ELCOS, Bangor University,Bangor, Gwynedd LL57 2DGTel: +44 1248 382252E-mail: c.e.pritchard@bangor.ac.ukwww.bangor.ac.uk/international/future/elcos

FEESThe fees you will pay will depend on yournationality and home country. For internationalstudents (from countries outside the EuropeanUnion) in 2011/12 the undergraduate fees are:• £11,800 Science and Engineering, and Health Studies

• £10,500 Bangor Business School (BA/BSc)• £9,600 Arts, Law, Social Sciences, andEducation

Please note: fee levels are correct at time ofprinting, but may be subject to change.

There is likely to be a small increase in the feesmentioned above for the 2012/13 academic yearand the fee level will be determined during 2011.

For current fee information, please view: www.bangor.ac.uk/ar/main/fees/home.htm

Students from European Union countriesNationals of the European Union are required topay a standard tuition fee decided by the WelshAssembly Government (see page 56 for moredetails).

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ACCOMMODATIONWe guarantee all first-year students a room in University StudentAccommodation. Our student rooms are on three main sites withinwalking distance of, or a short direct bus to, the University schools and thecity centre.

You have the opportunity to indicate your preference for a standardbedroom (with shared bathroom facilities) or an en-suite bedroom (withshower and toilet).

All accommodation is self-catered, which gives you the option of buyingmeals at any of the site outlets or preparing your own. Self-cateredaccommodation gives you the freedom and flexibility to eat what you want,when you want and works especially well if you prefer to eat food similar tothe food you eat at home. Bangor has a number of supermarkets andshops selling food from all over the world.

It is possible for students to be accommodated in single sex groups in anumber of halls. Students who would prefer this option should make thisrequest when returning the accommodation application form.

International students who bring their families to Bangor may be able totake advantage of the limited Family Accommodation offered by theUniversity for their first year. These are mostly 2-bedroom flats at variouslocations in the city, all within walking distance of University schools. Forfurther information contact the Halls Office when you are accepted by theUniversity. See inside back cover for details.

For more details about accommodation, please refer to page 21 and see:www.bangor.ac.uk/international/applied/accommodation.php

FUNDING YOUR STUDIESThe International Office is offering scholarships of up to £1,500 per year.The deadline for submitting applications is 30 June every year. For furtherdetails on eligibility and how to apply, please visit the website:www.bangor.ac.uk/international/future/scholarship.php

For further details of other scholarships available to International students,we advise you to contact the British Council office in your home country andthe organisation responsible for the Administration of Education in yourcountry.

Please visit the British Council website for details of scholarships:www.educationuk.org/scholarships

Further information on living and studying in the UK is available at:www.ukcisa.org.uk/student/studying_living.php

Bangor Business School offers 2 International Scholarships, at £5,000each, to outstanding candidates. The application deadline is May 1. Formore information see www.bangor.ac.uk/business

Other academic Schools may also offer Scholarships for internationalstudents – please check the School web pages for more information:www.bangor.ac.uk/corporate/informationabout/depts.php

‘The Zoology and Conservation degree at Bangor was exactly what I

was looking for. I also wanted a smaller University where I would be aperson and not just another name. I heard that North Wales was asafe place to live, which was important because for the first time I wasgoing to live away from home.

The Halls are very safe and comfortable to live in. After travelling along distance to get here it was very easy to settle in. The attachedbathroom is just enough for me, and there is an easy to use kitchenthat I share with seven others.

Bangor is a small but very beautiful city. If you want to live betweenthe sea and the mountains, then Bangor is the ideal place.

’JULIANNE MARIA BOULTONfrom Sri Lanka, studying Zoology with Conservation

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YOUR WELLBEINGMoving to study and live in a new country can bea daunting experience. That’s why we aim toensure that you are well prepared before youarrive and are given as much help as possible tosettle down.

Getting to know Bangor and making friends is avital part of settling down, and to help you to doso a range of briefings, introductory sessions andtours are arranged throughout Welcome Week byyour academic Schools and the Student ServicesCentre. There is also an Orientation Day forInternational Students at the end of WelcomeWeek, where you will be welcomed by the Vice-Chancellor and have the opportunity to meetrepresentatives from the University, the Students’Union and other useful external organisations.

Throughout your time at Bangor the staff in ourInternational Welfare Office are available toassist and advise you on a range of welfarematters such as NHS health care in the UK,opening and running a UK bank account, yourimmigration status and applications to extendyour student visa, travelling outside the UK, Policeregistration, working in the UK during and afteryour studies, accommodation, bringing yourfamily to the UK, nurseries and schools in Bangor,and English Language courses. Support is alsoavailable from the Students’ Union WelfareOfficer.

If you require any pre-arrival information andguidance please contact:International Student Welfare AdviserTel: +44 1248 388430E-mail: internationalwelfare@bangor.ac.ukwww.bangor.ac.uk/studentservices/international

We strongly recommend that disabled studentscontact the Disability Adviser in advance ofarrival to ensure that appropriate supportrequirements can be met.

Please contact:Carolyn Donaldson-Hughes,Head of Disability ServicesTel: +44 1248 382032E-mail: disabilityservice@bangor.ac.ukText: 01248 371811

Further information is available at:www.bangor.ac.uk/studentservices/international

‘I researched extensively about

universities, but found Bangor the bestbecause it is close to nature, quiet andcalm – for a student, a place like Bangor isparadise. You have ample amount ofactivities, societies, cultures and people here,and also the Bangor Business School is wellrenowned and highly regarded.

Living in halls is awesome, you get to meetpeople from all across the globe. You share akitchen with them, you get to know theircuisines, culture, and languages. And if youare planning a few trips abroad you havetheir homes as shelter!

Welcome Week was simply amazing,everything was so very well planned. TheSerendipity was the main attraction. I havejoined Storm FM and Film Society, and aminvolved in the Indian Society… My advice topeople applying to Bangor would be don’tthink twice if you get an offer from Bangor,just accept it. The culture is amazing andaccepts people from all walks of life. You willnever regret your decision if you chooseBangor.

’VAIBHAV DEWAN, from India, studying in theBangor Business School

We welcome students from institutions worldwide to study atBangor as study abroad students for up to one year as part oftheir degree course. The credits achieved at Bangor counttowards the final degree and are transferred to the homeuniversity by means of a transcript of study. Visiting studentsenjoy the same privileges and facilities as our other students.

When students visit Bangor University, it is usually for one semester or forone academic year. The modules taken are assessed at the end of eachsemester, giving the flexibility to attend for half or a whole year. Fees arebased on the number of semesters spent studying at Bangor and yourcountry of origin (European or non-European Union).

Visiting students can take a maximum of 60 Bangor credits per semester(30 ECTS) or 120 Bangor credits per year (60 ECTS).

TRANSFERRING CREDITS/ECTSNaturally, visiting students need to transfer credits achieved at Bangor totheir home university to count towards their degree programmes.

The European Credit Transfer System is operated at Bangor, therefore:• modules are given a Bangor University and ECTS credit value• ECTS grades provided where possible• transcripts of study will record achievements in both the BangorUniversity and ECTS systems

YOUR STUDY PROGRAMMEYou can look up information on the University’s Schools atwww.bangor.ac.uk/corporate/informationabout/depts

Details of modules, their content, credit values and the semester in whichthey are offered, etc are available on the University’s online gazettes atadmint.bangor.ac.uk/gazonline

CHOOSING YOUR STUDY PROGRAMMEAlthough we can advise and liaise with you regarding your choice ofmodules prior to your arrival in Bangor, a special orientation programmefor visiting students is held at the beginning of Semester 1 and 2 whereyou can discuss and agree on your study programme, prior to registration.

MORE INFORMATIONFor further information please refer towww.bangor.ac.uk/international/studyabroad

STUDYABROAD ATBANGOR

You may be interested to know that:

• new international students arriving on the firstSunday of Welcome Week are met at ManchesterAirport and Bangor train station and are brought totheir accommodation in Bangor.

• you will have a ‘Peer Guide’ – a second or third-year student who will be available to help you withany advice or information you will need during yourfirst weeks and months at Bangor.

• there are numerous international societies run bythe Students’ Union, including: Japanese,Malaysian, Chinese, Indian, Afro-Caribbean etc.

• Saturday trips are regularly organised to places ofinterest, e.g. Liverpool, Manchester, Chester, andthe capital of Wales, Cardiff. Other local events arealso specially organised for international students.

• The International Welfare Office runs visaworkshops to help students with their visaextension applications.

Further information about studying and living inWales can be obtained from:www.walesinternationalconsortium.com/students

Further information about studying and living in theUK can be obtained from:• The British Council: www.britishcouncil.org or theBritish Council office in your country.

• UKCISA: www.ukcisa.org.uk

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‘The academic background and facilities provided

at Bangor are top-class and excellent. It facilitatesthe overall development of a student. One learns thetheoretical as well as practical aspects of thediscipline, leading to opportunities and increasedinterest in specialisation.

Being an international student is demanding,adjusting to a new lifestyle and being away fromhome and loved ones. But Bangor makes me feel athome and things are so far so good. Thesurroundings please your eye and I never tire ofadmiring the beauty of this place... As aninternational student I would say Bangor offers a lotof student support – such as helping us settle downand not feel home sick. Help is readily available.

’SARAYU IYENGARfrom India, studying in the School of Psychology

What is university like? What are modules, semesters andseminars and how will you learn? You may be wondering whatstudy at university will be like and how it compares with theschool or college learning environment. In this section, weexplain some of the differences as well as giving details of thevarious options available and the support provided.

MODULES AND SEMESTERSTo complete a degree course you will take modules (units of study)equivalent to 360 credits (180 ECTS* credits) over 3 years.Some modules are worth 10 credits (5 ECTS credits), while others may beworth more. If you are studying full-time you take 120 credits (60 ECTScredits) in each year of study. We divide the academic year of 30 weeks into2 semesters (with the final weeks of each set aside for revision, privatestudy and assessment). You will usually be sent details of your first-yearcompulsory modules before the start of the course.

* ECTS = European Credit Transfer System

H OW WE STRUCTURE THE COURSESYour course is divided into 2 stages – during the first stage (Level 4) youtypically follow a broad programme in your chosen subject and will havesome opportunity to study some modules outside your main area ofinterest.

This allows you to broaden your knowledge and keep your options open, forexample by studying a new language. Your personal tutor will advise you onyour choice of modules during Welcome Week.During the second stage (Level 5/6) you take a more specialisedprogramme in your degree subject. In each of your second and third yearsyou will take modules representing 120 credits (60 ECTS credits) at Level5/6 that are approved for the programme of study you have chosen.

If you are taking a course with a placement year, the structure of university-based study is the same as described above with the placement happeningbetween the second and third years of study.

SINGLE OR JOINT HONOURSYou may be happy studying one subject as a specialism to gain a singlehonours degree. However, many students like to keep their options open bystudying 2 subjects. This is possible in many subject areas at Bangor bytaking a joint honours degree. This involves taking half your modules fromone subject area and half from the other. If you choose to study a language,your course may last for 4 years, with the third year being spent in anappropriate country. We have listed the joint honours options available onpages 72-73.

STUDY ATBANGOR

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LECTURES, SEMINARS AND TUTORIALSYou will find that much of the theoreticalmaterial in your course will be delivered inlectures. These are typically presentations bytutors given to groups of students studying thesame subject. The pace is faster than in schoolcourses and you are expected to make your ownsummaries of the material and to expand upon itthrough reading. Seminars are more informalteaching/discussion sessions in smaller groupsand involve more interaction with the tutor.Tutorials are where you meet individually or insmall groups with a tutor providing an importantopportunity for discussing problems. You mayneed to prepare work to discuss or present inthe tutorial.

Some courses involve practical workshops orlaboratory work. These give you the opportunityto handle material described in the lectures, touse experimental techniques, and to make theconnection between theory and practice.Practicals often include project work.You might also have the opportunity to undertakefieldwork or visit relevant organisations orresearch establishments.

STUDY SUPPORTIn addition to the help given by individualacademic Schools, the University providessupport for students who feel they need tostrengthen their study skills. We offer aprogramme of fortnightly workshops during bothsemesters. Guidance is given on reading, note-taking, library skills, essay writing, presentationsand preparing for examinations. Also availableare Drop-In sessions offered by the College ofEducation and Lifelong Learning, where you candiscuss study skills issues on a one-to-onebasis.

YOUR TIMETABLEThe number of lectures, seminars and tutorialsyou will have each week will depend on thecourse you are taking. Of course, when you arenot in classes, you should be spending timereading around the subject, preparing forclasses and completing assignments. The natureof this work varies from course to course. Interms of effort, a single 10-credit module (5ECTS credit module) will involve you in around100 hours of work, divided between teaching,private study and assessment.

HOW WE ASSESS YOUFor most courses you will be assessed through acombination of examinations, courseworkassessments, projects and practicals. You mustpass the assessment in each year beforeprogressing to the next stage of the course.

YOUR PERSONAL TUTORWhen you become a student you will have aPersonal Tutorwho is usually a member of theacademic School in which you are studying. Youwill meet with your Personal Tutor regularlythroughout your course. If you are taking a jointdegree, your Personal Tutor will be from one ofyour chosen subject areas.

WELSH-MEDIUM STUDYAs a result of its comprehensive LanguagePolicy, Bangor University has the highest numberand broadest range of modules that can bestudied through the medium of Welsh of all the Universities in Wales. It is also regarded ashaving the best bilingual services and supportfor students. More information on Welsh-medium study options are available on thewebsite and in the Welsh-medium prospectus.

CHANGING COURSESIn some cases you may be able to change yourdegree programme after your first year,dependent on the modules you have studied.Many programmes have common first yearsproviding you with greater flexibility over yourfinal choice of route.

WORK EXPERIENCESome courses provide the opportunity to spendthe third year on a placement gaining relevantwork experience. Where this is possible, detailsare given on the course page.

THE PART-TIME STUDY OPTIONIt is possible to study for most of our degrees bypart-time attendance (usually during the daytimealongside full-time students). The difference isthat you attend for fewer sessions each weekand spread your study over a longer time(minimum 4 years, maximum 10 years). If youare interested, please contact the AdmissionsOffice to discuss the possibilities available.

Our College of Education and Lifelong Learningoffers a range of part-time courses across northWales, including part-time degrees that areoffered in the evening and at weekends. (Seepage 64 for details.)

NEW FOR 2012The courses marked as ‘New for 2012’ arecurrently at the course validation stage and areexpected to be approved shortly. Please contactthe academic School concerned if you need anymore details.

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LIBRARY AND ARCHIVES SERVICE

• Our aim is to make sure you have easy accessto the material you need for your day-to-daywork. We have an extensive collection ofbooks and journals and most journals areavailable online in full-text format.

• We also have databases, DVDs and CDs (withlistening and viewing facilities); microformmaterial; a wonderful manuscript collection,and PCs and wireless networks for you toaccess the wealth of information that is nowavailable on the Internet.

• In addition to the Main Library for arts,humanities, social sciences, business and lawon College Road, there is the science andpsychology Library in the Deiniol Building.Both have a study support room with assistivetechnology such as CCTVs, scanners andBraille embossers. There is also a Library foreducation and sports science at the GeorgeSite.

• From our website you can find out about thelibrary’s stock and also access e-books,e-journals, past exam papers, subject guidesand other learning resources. You can makeuse of these electronic resources fromanywhere – on and off the campus.

• We have special Library collections includingthe Welsh Library which has books in Welshon a range of subjects and books in otherlanguages relating to Wales. We also have thelargest university-based archives in the UKwhich contain literary and historicalmanuscripts and the Archives of most majorestates in north Wales. Other special collections include the Bangor DiocesanLibrary, Sir Frank Brangwyn's library of artbooks and the Owen Pritchard collectionwhich is rich in the output of modern privatepresses.

• During Welcome Week, you will have anopportunity to meet our staff at the Freshers’Fair, participate in an interactive introductionto our service and have an opportunity to visit‘your’ library. We also run a number oftraining sessions and have a range of self-paced learning materials to help youmaximise the potential from our resourcesand help you get the best marks possible. Ifyou have any queries relating to your use ofthe library and its resources, our trained staffwill be happy to help.

To help you in your studies we provide arange of learning resources supportedby experienced staff. We provide Library,Archives, Computing, Media and Repro-graphics facilities and services.

We have over 1,000 computers for youruse, eight libraries, purpose built Mediafacilities and a Printing and Binding unit.

Experienced staff are here to help youget the best out of our resources duringyour study at Bangor.

SUBJECT-SPECIALISTRESOURCES

We have a range of other learning resourceswhich support specific subject areas:

• A Multimedia Language Centre which usesdigital technology through computers whichare able to record and play back digital sound,and mix audio and text. Hundreds of exercisesare available through a simple menu and text-based exercises can be used on most open-access computers around the University.

• A Centre for Hill and Upland Management,located 5 miles east of Bangor, whichmaintains strong links with local farmers. Onesection of this is used entirely for research andeducational purposes, and has areas devotedto agroforestry, crop and livestockexperiments. There is also a forestrydemonstration area. The other part compriseslowland, improved upland and open mountaingrazing, and is operated on a commercialbasis.

• A £3.5M ocean-going Research Ship whichprovides students with practical experience atsea and the opportunity to develop projects onscientific cruises.

• A Natural History Museum, the only one of itskind in north Wales, which has a wide range ofpreserved material.

• Treborth Botanic Gardens are used for some ofthe teaching activities of the School ofBiological Sciences and the School ofEnvironment, Natural Resources andGeography. Situated on the shores of the MenaiStrait the site has seven glasshouses includinga large landscaped tropical house, a largeunderground root research laboratory, ateaching laboratory, formal garden beds, arock garden, an arboretum and a conservationcollection.

LEARNINGRESOURCES

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INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY SERVICES

IT Services is responsible for the implementation and support of the University ITinfrastructure and provides a wide range of facilities and services including high speednetwork access on campus and in all Halls of Residence and remote access to IT whenoff-campus. The IT Support Centre staff are always on hand for the best advice, helpand support on any IT matter.

IT Facilities on CampusThere are over 1000 computers for students touse in open access areas and computer roomsacross campus, of these 200 are available 24hours every day. All computers have thenecessary software to support your studies atthe University, including Microsoft Office, Webbrowsers, e-Mailers, Statistics and Graphicspackages etc. Printing facilities are availablewithin or near all the open access computingrooms and in all libraries.

There are specialised computing facilities in theMain Arts and Deiniol Libraries for the sole useof disabled students or those with additionalneeds. The rooms contain computers running arange of assistive software, Braille embosser,Rainbow scanner, CCTV magnifier and heightadjustable furniture.

IT Facilities in Halls of ResidenceYou can access the Internet from Halls ofResidence. Every bedroom in every hall hasInternet access, which is better than local homebroadband.

You can also access the University’s networkedsoftware from Halls of Residence. You can alsoaccess the networked software using ourDesktopAnywhere facility without having toinstall any additional special software on yourcomputer. This can also be used from home,wireless zones or within the on-campuscomputer rooms, in fact anywhere you have abroadband or better network connection. TheUniversity also provides an e-mail account, andsomewhere to store your academic work, bothof which can be accessed anywhere with aninternet connection.

IT Facilities for people living off campusYou can use the University IT facilities fromhome or anywhere away from the campus overany internet connection which permits webbrowsing, allowing you to access the sameDesktopAnywhere service as students in Hallsof Residence (see above).

Bringing your own computer to UniversityComputer ownership is not obligatory but if youdo decide to bring a PC, we have easy to usewireless internet access across the campus.

Can I borrow a computer?We have a laptop loan service – PC Notebookand MacBooks are available free for 1 week and3 week loan periods from the IT Support Centre,Adeilad Deiniol.

With a computer and internet access you canconnect to a wide range of networked software,e-mail and file storage etc.

Services for Disabled StudentsThe University houses an accredited AccessCentre which offers study needs assessmentsfor students eligible for the Disabled Students’Allowance. Once your disability-related studyneeds have been assessed, a NeedsAssessment Report will be produced and sent toyour funding body for approval. For furtherinformation please contact the Access Centre:Email: access_centre@bangor.ac.ukTel: 01248 388101www.bangor.ac.uk/access-centre

In addition, the University also houses DSAKit,an IT equipment supply service specifically forDSA applicants. Where your funding body hasselected DSAKit as the supplier they willcoordinate the provision of IT equipment andsoftware installation, and support you to get upand running quickly and easily. For furtherinformation, please contact DSAKit:Email: dsakit@bangor.ac.ukTel: 01248 382104www.bangor.ac.uk/dsakit

Learning TechnologyOnline LearningThe University’s bilingual virtual learningenvironment Blackboard is available on and off-campus for all users. It provides online supportincluding course notes, audio and videomaterial, blogs and quizzes.

Lecture captureFully automated lecture recording systems areincreasingly installed in main lecture rooms. If alecturer has opted to use this service, thesystem records audio, and whatever isdisplayed on the projector. This is then savedand can be distributed through Blackboard, theUniversity's on-line learning environment.

Online ServicesThe University is developing on-line access toinformation and services to support you whilstat University, to save you time and energy! Thefollowing are examples of our expanding rangeof online services which will allow you to:• see your timetable online• check which modules you are studying• check your marks• manage your IT account• join a discussion forum

Printing and Binding UnitWe have a central printing and binding unit atthe University and the services availableinclude:• Digital Printing – high quality, fast turnaround,colour and black and white printing ofdissertation/thesis, posters, flyers etc

• T-shirt and mouse mat printing• Binding of thesis/dissertations – hard and softcovers

• Laminating – from A4 to A0 (large format)• Large format poster printing

IT Help and SupportThe IT Support Centre staff are always on handto help with any IT problem, advice or just thatextra bit of reassurance we all need sometimes.All new users are given a comprehensive guideon all IT Services available at Bangor (electronicand printed versions available). We also providea wide range of IT Guides which can beaccessed online.

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DISABLED STUDENTS, INCLUDING THOSEWITH DYSLEXIA AND MENTAL HEALTHDIFFICULTIESNot everyone who uses our Service will think ofthemselves as disabled or as having a‘disability’. We use this single term however tocover the barriers faced by students with a widerange of physical and sensory impairments,chronic health conditions and mental healthneeds.

The number of disabled students studying atthe University has increased dramatically overthe last few years and our team has grown tomeet the demand. We offer a friendly,professional service, and have gained excellentfeedback from students. Each School has anominated Disability Contact who is anacademic member of staff. Learning SupportPlans are drawn up between students, theSchool and the Disability Service to outlineindividual requirements and to ensurearrangements are put in place.

We also have a long-established Access Centreand can carry out study needs assessments forDisabled Students Allowances (DSA). Theseallowances help to meet the extra course costsstudents can face as a direct result of disability.Students with impairments affecting mobility orstamina study here in many Schools. However,if you do have a mobility difficulty, you areadvised to come along to the University wherestaff will be pleased to show you around.Although we have a strategic programme toimprove access, not all our buildings areaccessible as yet. But, the main thing to do is tocome along and try out the site yourself.

Bangor University encourages applications fromdisabled students and aims to provide anequitable experience for all students. Westrongly advise you to declare your disability/long-term medical condition on your UCASform so that we can discuss your individualrequirements with you. Please contact us orvisit us so we can tell you about the supportavailable.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT:Disability Service, Student Support ServicesNeuadd Rathbone, Bangor UniversityBangor, Gwynedd, LL57 2DFE-mail: disabilityservice@bangor.ac.ukwww.bangor.ac.uk/studentservices/disability/

We want you to enjoy your time at Bangor. We appreciate thatduring your course you may need support to help you toovercome personal difficulties which might arise.

Student Support Services can offer thefollowing assistance:

• A free and confidential counselling service onan appointment or ‘walk in’ basis. You will alsohave a personal tutor and each hall ofresidence has a Warden who will help toensure your well-being.

• A mental health adviser assists students tomanage their studies and can identify sourcesof help and support.

• A named contact person for students from carewithin Student Support Services.

• A team of staff volunteers who will deal withcrises and serious incidents involving studentsoutside normal university hours.

• An adviser to help if you fall ill or have achange in circumstances and need to interruptyour studies.

• Health and care with designated dailysurgeries with our partner GP surgery.

• Health care via daily surgeries where noappointment is required (you will need toregister with a local General Practitioner).A student health nurse at the local GP practiceoffers a health information and advice service.

• An adviser for international students who canhelp with issues such as liaising withUniversity departments or public and localorganisations. We also run various courses tohelp improve English language skills (see page46).

• Our Chaplains provide support for all membersof the University, regardless of their religiousbeliefs.

• Study mentors provide support to studentsbased upon individual requirements.

The Students’ Union has an Advice Centre whichoffers:

• Representation, personal support and adviceon a variety of problems through the Students’Union Advice and Representation Centre.

• A confidential Nightline support service run bystudents for students.

SUPPORTINGOUR STUDENTS

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For further information about Student Support Services please contact:Student Support ServicesNeuadd Rathbone, Bangor University, Bangor, Gwynedd, LL57 2DFTel: 01248 382024E-mail: studentservices@bangor.ac.uk • www.bangor.ac.uk/studentservices

THE MILES DYSLEXIA CENTRE

Bangor’s pioneering Dyslexia Centre is internationally known for itsresearch and teaching and our Student Service was one of the first to beestablished within a British University. We provide advice and support fordyslexic, dyspraxic and AD(H)D students, and you will be joining over 500other students who have registered with the Dyslexia Centre. You will beable to benefit from the support we offer as part of the wider centraluniversity student services.

The Dyslexia Centre offers:• individual advice from specialist tutors with coursework, with developingindependent study skills, and with organisation (e.g. managing time,workloads and stress)

• support with maths, statistics and chemistry • student workshops which focus on different topics of relevance to studyand survival at university

• liaison with a student’s academic School (with the student’s permission)so that academic lecturers and tutors can make inclusive adjustments tocourse delivery and assessment

• help with arranging adjustments to examinations and assessments,library provision and access to reserved computer support rooms

• loan of equipment• help with applying for the Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA), andmaking claims for this. We work alongside the University’s AccessCentre in assessing students’ study needs for the DSA.

ASSESSMENTS FOR SPECIFIC LEARNING DIFFICULTIESStudents who have not previously been assessed for dyslexia, dyspraxiaor attentional difficulties can have an informal screening assessmentbefore going on to see the Centre’s assessment team.

Students know that they are always welcome – and that they can use thesupport we offer on a regular or ‘as needs’ basis. The Centre staff areexperienced – and students appreciate the informal and welcomingatmosphere here.

Prospective students are welcome to contact or visit us.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:The Miles Dyslexia Centre, Bangor University,Bangor, Gwynedd, LL57 2DGTel: 01248 383843/383620E-mails: pssa03@bangor.ac.ukor dyslex-student@bangor.ac.ukwww.dyslexia.bangor.ac.uk

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‘Student services are an excellent source ofinformation and support. The University andStudents’ Union provides support for everypossible thing from financial advice to counsell-ing services. Also Bangor University has its ownNightline which provides information and alistening service to the students.

’ELENA NEOPHYTOUfrom Cyprus, studying Psychology

Here we outline the costs of studying at university and thesupport available.

We are keen to help you as much as we can on financial matters– advice is available before you apply and while you are studyingat the University through Student Support Services and theStudents’ Union Advice and Representation Centre.

FEES FOR TUITION – UK AND EU STUDENTSRecent Government announcements mean that university tuition fees arelikely to rise in 2012. The level of the tuition fee for 2012/13 is still to be setand you are advised to check the University’s website for the latestinformation.

However, as previously, if you are admitted to the University as a full-timeundergraduate student in September 2012, you will not have to pay anupfront tuition fee. Payment of the tuition fee is deferred until you graduateand start earning over £21,000 a year.

If you are an EU non-UK national and have lived in an EU country for atleast three years before the start of your course, the deferred payment ofthe tuition fee should also apply to you. EU students are advised to seekinformation from the Direct Gov website.

We also have a range of bursaries and additional scholarship awards for2012 entry to offer extra financial support for students (see page 58-60).More information about the Student Finance arrangements for 2012 entrywill be available on the University website as soon as details are confirmed,or contact the Student Recruitment Unit:Tel: 01248 383561/382005E-mail:marketing@bangor.ac.uk

PAYING YOUR LIVING COSTSStudents from the UK can apply for a student maintenance loan to help payfor living expenses such as accommodation, food, books etc. These loans donot have to be repaid until you graduate and start earning more than£21,000 a year.

For students from England and Wales, non-repayable means-testedmaintenance grants are also available to help support you – how much youget will depend on your household income and where you live. Extrafinancial support is also available in the form of grants or allowances forsome categories of students, e.g. disabled students, those with dependents.

For EU and international students, you should usually be able to findinformation on scholarships from your Ministry of Education, appropriateinter-university organisations or your British Council representative.

It’s worth remembering that the cost of living in Bangor is generally lowerthan in other parts of the UK. Many students, however, find part-time orcasual work during the holidays and/or term-time to help cover costs. Wehave our own student employment bureau which can help you to findsomething suitable (see page 43).

IF YOU HAVE FINANCIAL PROBLEMSThere are funds available to help students who find access to highereducation difficult for financial reasons or who encounter financial diffi-culties during the course. Information on the criteria we use for distributingthese funds (called Hardship Funds) and the procedure for application isavailable from the Money Support Unit, Student Support Services.

Should you wish to find part-time work to supplement your income, ourJobZone has lists of part-time vacancies for students in the area. TheMoney Support Unit assists around 500–600 students each year with agrant or small bursary through the Hardship Funds. Please contact the Unitif you have financial concerns, or want to know how to make your money gofurther.

FEES FOR TUITION – INTERNATIONAL STUDENTSPlease see page 46 for information about tuition fees for internationalstudents.

Scholarships of up to £1,500 per year are available. See page 47 or getfurther details from the International Office by e-mailing:international@bangor.ac.uk

FINANCINGYOURSTUDIES

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INFORMATION ON FEES AND LOANSBecause this prospectus is prepared a long time in advance,we advise you to seek the latest information on fees and loans.

Please contact one of the following:

MONEY SUPPORT UNITStudent Support Services,Bangor University, Bangor LL57 2DGTel: 01248 383566/383637E-mail: moneysupport@bangor.ac.uk

DEPARTMENT FOR CHILDREN, SCHOOLS AND FAMILIESTel: 0800 731 9133E-mail: info@dcsf.gsi.gov.ukwww.dcsf.gov.uk

If you normally live in England:Student Finance EnglandTel: 08456 077577www.studentfinanceengland.co.uk

If you normally live in Wales:Student Finance WalesTel: 08456 028845www.studentfinancewales.co.uk

BURSARIES

BANGOR BURSARIESThe existing Bangor Bursary scheme aims toprovide additional support for those from lowerincome families. More details about the2012/13 Bangor Bursary Scheme will beavailable on the University website as soon asdetails are confirmed. The general principlesregarding the existing scheme are set out below.

Bangor Bursaries are usually available on top ofany state-funded maintenance grants and loans,as well as any other University bursaries youmay be eligible for. Students in receipt of otherbursary payments (e.g. NHS, Health & SocialCare council) are not eligible for the BangorBursary scheme.

Your eligibility for a Bangor Bursary normallydepends on: • your household income, and• the course you are studying: you must bestudying on a full-time undergraduate coursewith a full tuition fee payable to the University.

Your eligibility for a Bangor Bursary will beassessed as part of the statutory means testcarried out by your Local Education Authority orStudent Finance England, when you completethe Application for Student Finance (PN1) form toapply for a maintenance grant etc. This meansthat you will not have to apply directly to theUniversity for a Bangor Bursary – you willautomatically receive it provided you meet theincome criteria.

More information about the exact level of BangorBursaries for 2012/13 will be available on theUniversity website as soon as details areconfirmed.

To be considered for any of the bursaries offeredby Bangor you must complete your LocalAuthority’s and Student Loan CompanyApplication for Student Finance (PN1) form –this is the method used to assess eligibility forstudent loans, maintenance grants etc, and in thesame way your eligibility for the bursariesoffered at Bangor will be assessed on the basisof the same form. As you need to complete theLocal Authority’s and Student Loan Companyassessment form every year, then the amount ofBangor Bursary you may be eligible for may alsochange from year to year.

START-UP BURSARIESStart-up bursaries of £1,000 are available forthose entering the University from care. Thestart-up bursaries are intended to cover courserelated costs such as books, equipment, traveland study aids. These are one-off, non-repayablebursaries which will be paid in the first year only.

For more information about bursaries see thewebsite or contact the Student Recruitment Unit:Tel: 01248 383561/382005E-mail: marketing@bangor.ac.uk

As you would expect from a universitythat places great emphasis on studentsupport, we are keen to offer extra helpto new students. A range of bursariesand scholarships are likely to be avail-able to those starting at Bangor in 2012.

What’s the difference between bursaries andscholarships?

The bursaries offered at the University areawarded according to certain criteria –for example, the Bangor Bursaries are awardedto those whose household income makes themeligible for such a bursary payment. As long asyou meet the criteria and have completed thenecessary student support form, then youshould automatically receive the relevantbursary award.

However, the majority of the Scholarshipsoffered by the University are awarded uponmerit. For example, those who excel in theUniversity’s Entrance Scholarship examinationscan be awarded Merit Scholarship awardsworth up to £3,000; while ExcellenceScholarships worth up to £5,000 are awardedto those entrants with the highest academicattainment upon entry.

BURSARIES ANDSCHOLARSHIPS

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SCHOLARSHIPS

Bangor offers one of the most generous scholarship schemes inthe UK, with around £150,000 awarded each year to new under-graduate students. With the exception of the ExcellenceScholarships, you must apply for all of the Scholarships. Theclosing date for the 2012 Entrance Scholarships (where youmust sit an examination) is November 18, 2011 – you must getyour Entrance Scholarship application form in to the Universityby that date.

ENTRANCE & MERIT SCHOLARSHIPSAs part of Bangor’s Entrance Scholarships scheme, there areapproximately 40 Merit Scholarships of up to £3,000 available to thosewho excel in the University's annual Entrance Scholarships examinations.

To be considered for the Merit Scholarships and other EntranceScholarships, you have to:

• complete an Entrance Scholarships application form (closing dateNovember 18, 2011 for the 2012 Entrance Scholarships)

• sit an examination in the subject of your choice, (with the exam being heldat your school/college on a specified date in January).

Entrance Scholarship examinations are currently offered in the followingsubjects: Biology, Business Studies, Chemistry, Computing, Economics,English, Electronics, French, German, Geography, History, Italian, Law,Mathematics, Media Studies, Music, Physics, Psychology, Religious Studies,Sociology, Spanish, Sport & Exercise Science, Design & Technology, TheatreStudies, Welsh (First or Second Language).

In addition to the Merit Scholarships, Bangor offers a number of otherEntrance Scholarships. Most of these are worth £500 a year and include:

• 2 for Law applicants• 1 for Education applicants• 3 for Electronic Engineering applicants• 5 for Computer Science applicants

• several scholarships which are open to applicants from specific regionsof Wales – including scholarships supported by the following localauthorities: Colwyn Bay Town Council, Denbighshire, Gwynedd and theIsle of Anglesey.

For more information about the Entrance Scholarships (including theBangor Merit Scholarships), please request a copy of the EntranceScholarships Handbook and an application form from the StudentRecruitment Unit (see contact details on next page).

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EXCELLENCE SCHOLARSHIPSExcellence Scholarships worth up to £5,000 may be available in severalsubject areas for those starting at Bangor in September 2012. Theseawards which are non-means tested and payable in the first year only, willbe awarded to the UK/EU students coming to Bangor with the highestacademic attainment in the relevant subject areas.

Excellence Scholarships may be available for entrants to the followingacademic Schools /subject areas (number of £5,000 awards in brackets):• Music (1) • Psychology (2) • Modern Languages (1) • Welsh (1) • Law (1) • Natural Sciences: Biological Sciences, Environment & Natural Resources,Ocean Sciences (2)

• Physical Sciences: Chemistry, Computer Science, Electronics (2)• Sport Science (1)

Please note:• The Scholarships are worth up to £5,000 and may be shared between twoor more students.

• A student can only receive one non-means tested Scholarship (i.e. anentrant could not receive a £5,000 Excellence Scholarship and £3,000Merit Award – the higher prize would take precedence).

• However, students awarded Scholarship prizes are still eligible to receiveany relevant bursary payments, such as the means-tested BangorBursary or subject-specific bursary.

Please check the University website for the latest information onExcellence Scholarships.

SPORTS SCHOLARSHIPSWe also offer Sports Scholarships worth up to a maximum of £2,000 peryear, which are available in a scheme developed to recognise sportingpotential and develop sporting excellence. To apply for the 2012 SportsScholarships you need to complete and return the application form byJuly 1, 2012.

ACADEMIC SCHOLARSHIPSSome Academic Schools offer their own scholarships, for example: Music,Linguistics and English Language, Chemistry, Computer Science andElectronic Engineering. Details of these are available directly from theSchools involved.

TOP SCHOLARSHIPSBangor’s Talent Opportunities Programme is a widening accessprogramme which operates across North Wales. The schools involved arelocated in areas which have been identified as having socially-disadvantaged or deprived communities under the Welsh AssemblyGovernment’s Communities First programme. Details of the TOPScholarships are sent directly to the schools and pupils involved.

The Entrance Scholarships Handbook and application forms for SportsScholarships are available from:Student Recruitment UnitTel: 01248 388143/382005E-mail: marketing@bangor.ac.uk

‘Winning the Excellence Scholarship is amazing! I am so thrilled,

especially as I feel all my hard work and incessant revisionthroughout my two A level years has been well worth it! The money Iwill receive from obtaining the scholarship will lessen my eventualstudent debt. This is a weight off my mind, meaning I can concentrateon my studies without having that extra nag about money in the backof my mind…

I chose to study here for many reasons, not in the least because whenI came here for the University Open Day, the University just seemed toclick with me. The facilities seemed fantastic, the lecturers amicable,the course ideal and the fact that the University had its own researchvessel amazed me! The settings also appealed to me as I didn’t wishto attend a city university and I really enjoy outdoor sports.

’HARRIET RUSHTON, from Newcastle Under-Lyme, received a £4,000Excellence Scholarship to study Marine Biology and Oceanography

‘I feel very privileged to receive such a

generous award, and I’m extremely gratefulto the University. The award will enable me tobuy resources that I would not have beenable to afford otherwise.

’TIMOTHY PRICE, from the Isle of Man, who received a £4,000 ExcellenceScholarship to study Music

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Study at Bangor, but still see the world. Exchange and workplacement opportunities available throughout Europe, NorthAmerica and the Far East.

During your time at Bangor, there’s a chance for you to study abroad as apart of your degree programme. We have partner universities throughoutEurope, North America and the Far East where you can spend between 3and 12 months studying during your second year. Your work willcontribute towards your degree, so you won't have to spend more timecompleting your degree.

It's a great chance to study with specialists, see a different way of life,broaden your horizons and of course with international experience of thiskind, you'll really improve your career prospects.

If you plan to study in a country where English is not spoken natively, theremay be additional language support available for you.

Most exchanges within Europe take place with the support of theCommission of the European Communities within the framework of theErasmus programme, and we have agreements with 100 universities in20 countries. A grant is given to eligible students to help with travel andliving costs.

The exchanges to North America are for 1 year and the exchange to SouthKorea is a summer programme.

Here are some examples of subjects and destinations:

FORESTRY:Canada and FinlandBIOLOGY:USA and FranceCHEMISTRY:Portugal and FranceOCEAN SCIENCES:Belgium, Denmark and USABANKING & FINANCE:USASOCIOLOGY:Germany and FinlandPSYCHOLOGY:Netherlands and GermanyLINGUISTICS:Spain and GermanySOCIAL WORK:Denmark

AN OPPORTUNITYTO STUDYOVERSEAS

‘My experiences have been extremely

varied, enjoyable and enriching. Mylanguages have improved and I have madesome new and lasting friends.

’TOM SELIGMANN, a Three Language Honours student from Devon,spent 12 months studying in Europe

‘I would recommend the study abroad programme to anyone. Going

to the US was a superb experience for me. Even though I thought ourcultures were not that different, it turns out they really are and I founda town and way of life I loved. I am actually going back to OregonState in September as I loved it there so much.

’Ocean Sciences student, AMY GARRETT, from London, spent a yearabroad studying at Oregon State University, USA

MODERN LANGUAGES:France, Germany, Italy, SpainEDUCATION:Austria and Finland

If you’re interested in studyingoverseas, your school exchangesco-ordinator and the InternationalExchanges Officer will be happy toprovide you with informationduring your first semester atBangor.

Additional information on all ourpartners and destinations isavailable on our website:www.bangor.ac.uk/exchanges

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FINANCING YOUR STUDIES

The financial side is likely to be one area of concern. You will have twomain costs to cover – the tuition fee and your living costs. Students canreceive help with both as a range of financial support is available,depending on your personal circumstances. Payment of the annual tuitionfee can be deferred by applying for a tuition fee loan.

To help with living costs, means-tested grants are available for studentsfrom England and Wales and you can also apply for a student mainten-ance loan to help you pay for expenses such as accommodation, food,books and travel.

Depending on your individual circumstances, you may be eligible foradditional financial support. For example, students who are parents maybe eligible for extra assistance such as the Childcare Grant or the Parent'sLearning Allowance, while there are also grants for those with adultdependents.

We also have a Hardship Fund to assist students who experienceunexpected financial hardship or who have additional costs such as travel,childcare or medical costs. In the past year, the fund has helped over 400students with a range of non-repayable payments.

SUPPORTINGYOUR STUDIES

If you are returning to education,then you might benefit from thesupport and advice offeredthrough the Study Skills supportoffered on a weekly ‘drop-in’ basisat Lifelong Learning. Many maturestudents take advantage of theopportunity to receive extra helpand advice on topics such as note-taking, essay planning and writing,time management and preparingfor exams. Additional ‘drop-in’sessions are offered for thoseseeking extra support with mathsand statistics.

Please see our website for details:www.bangor.ac.uk/ll

STUDENTS’ UNION

Each year Bangor opens its doorsto students of all ages, from 18 to80, and the Students’ Unionprovides appropriate support andrepresentation for mature students.

MATURESTUDENTS

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We welcome applications from mature students and will doas much as we can to help and support you during your timehere. We appreciate that as a mature student you are slightlydifferent from a student who arrives here straight fromschool.

For example, you may have other commitments andresponsibilities, you will have had more life experience in the‘real world’ and your path to university may have beencomplicated. Your needs, concerns and questions aboutstarting university are therefore likely to be different as well.

You may be considering studying full-time, or, if you are local to NorthWales, then the option of studying a part-time degree in the eveningmay be more attractive. Both options are covered in this prospectus (seepage 64 for the part-time courses offered).

Amongst the services that will be of interest to you are the MatureStudents’ Adviser within Student Support Services, within the Students’Union office, the financial advice and support offered by the MoneySupport Unit, and the Study Skills sessions offered by the College ofEducation and Lifelong Learning.

While some of these services are outlined here, we would urge you tocontact us for more information about the range of help and supportavailable to mature students:

A Mature Students leaflet is availablefrom the Student Recruitment Unit: Tel: 01248 383561/382005E-mail: marketing@bangor.ac.uk

Or you can talk to the Mature Students Adviser:Tel: 01248 383637E-mail: moneysupport@bangor.ac.uk

‘Being a mature student, I had my reservations about going back to

university, but studying at Bangor has made the return to education apleasurable experience. The pace of the courses seem to be spot on,with enough to keep you busy but not too much so you get snowedunder.

The School as a whole has a fairly relaxed atmosphere and all thetutors/lecturers are really helpful and friendly. It makes learning apleasure rather than a chore. It's a great feeling in the mornings whenyou get up and actually look forward to going in every day… The staff,lecturers and other students are always willing to help if they can. Thecourse is interesting and very rewarding if you put the time in. It’s beenthe best experience I've had education wise.

My highlight so far has been getting decent results and realising I wascapable of degree level study, also meeting like-minded new people isgreat.

’DARREN LEE ROBERTSfrom Caernarfon, studying Computer Science

INFORMATION ON FEESAND LOANSBecause this prospectus isprepared a long time in advance,we advise you to seek the latestinformation on fees and loans.Please contact one of the following:

MONEY SUPPORT UNITStudent Support Services, BangorUniversity, Bangor LL57 2DGTel: 01248 383566/383637E-mail: moneysupport@bangor.ac.uk

If you normally live in England:Student Finance EnglandTelephone: 08456 077577www.studentfinanceengland.co.uk

If you normally live in Wales:Student Finance WalesTelephone: 08456 028845www.studentfinancewales.co.uk

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‘My advice to any

prospective student is‘just be yourself’. BangorUniversity is full ofpeople of different agesand backgrounds. I wasworried about fitting inbecause being older thana ‘typical’ student, Ithought I wouldn’t haveanything in common withanyone – but it’s not likethat at all!’

NICK LEEfrom Cemaes Bay, Anglesey,studying Media Studies withSpanish

Each module forms part of one ormore of the following awards:

• Higher Education Certificate inOpen Studies

• Higher Education Certificate,Diploma or Foundation Degreein Community Development

• Higher Education Certificate,Diploma or Degree in SocialStudies

• Higher Education Certificate,Diploma or Degree in Fine Art

• Higher Education Certificate,Diploma or Degree in Literature& Creative Writing

• Higher Education Certificate,Diploma or Degree in CombinedStudies

OUR STUDENTSThe diversity of our provision ismatched by the diversity of ourstudents. Some may have previousqualifications, others very few.They are of all ages and from awide variety of backgrounds, andare bound together by a desire tolearn and to study a specificsubject.

Lifelong Learning plays animportant role in providingpart-time study options forpeople living in communitiesacross north Wales. Withcentres in Bangor, Mold andWrexham, and coursesrunning in centres andworkplaces throughout thearea, our aim is to widenaccess to higher education innorth Wales, taking universityeducation to people whotraditionally may not have hadaccess to such courses in thepast.

THE SUBJECTSFrom short courses to MastersAwards, a variety of subject areasare offered, and we aim to providestudents with a seamlessprogression into and throughhigher education.

Our provision ranges from daytimeand evening classes, whichnormally take between 10 and 30weeks to complete, to part-timedegrees and postgraduateprogrammes which usually take4½-6 years to complete.

All our provision is accredited andcourses are organised in such away that you can decide to studyjust one module in the subject ofyour choice, or accumulate creditsover time towards a highereducation certificate, professionalqualification or degree.

PART-TIME DEGREESPart-time degrees offered include:BA Social Studies, taught atBangor; BA Literature & CreativeWriting, taught at Bangor; BACombined Studies, taught atBangor; BA Fine Art, taught atBangor and in the community.

PART-TIME STUDY &LIFELONG LEARNING

WANT TO LEARN WELSH?Over a number of years we have developed an exciting and effectiveprogramme (called WLPAN) for adult learners of Welsh.Tens of thousandsof students have benefited from the combination of carefully gradedcourses, for beginners, through to experienced learners, with highlyexperienced and committed tutors and first-class back up services.For further details about learning Welsh across north Wales, please visitour website or contact us on 01248 382752.

STUDENT SUPPORTLifelong Learning provides a wide programme of study skills and adviceand support sessions for anyone coming to higher education for the firsttime or for those returning to learning, ensuring that all students will getthe best out of their chosen subjects.

HOW TO APPLYFor most courses, enthusiasm and a willingness to learn is all that isrequired. If you are interested in studying for a degree or an MA on a part-time basis, you will be invited to an informal interview before beingaccepted on the course, to make sure that the course is right for you. It isusually possible to start studying on degree and postgraduate courses inthe New Year as well as September.

Apply direct to Lifelong Learning. If you are in receipt of certain statebenefits or on a low income, you may be eligible to have your fees waived.This means that your tuition would be free of charge. Many part-timestudents can get help with their fees and a grant to support them duringtheir studies. Please check with your Local Education Authority or contactus for full details.

WANT TO KNOW MORE?Informal open evenings are held in Bangor in January, May and September.For further information about any of the courses, visit our website orcontact us directly:

LIFELONG LEARNINGDean Street, Bangor LL57 1UTTel: 01248 382708E-mail: ll@bangor.ac.uk • www.bangor.ac.uk/ll

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MAKING HIGHEREDUCATION POSSIBLE

Bangor University is committed tomaking Higher Education moreaccessible and is actively involved inattempts to increase and widenparticipation.

For instance, our Talent OpportunitiesProgramme is one of the largest wideningaccess programmes in the country, involvingover 1,400 pupils in schools across north Wales.Bangor is one of the partner institutions involvedin the Reaching Wider programme operating inthe region, and we can arrange activities forschools involved in other widening participationinitiatives.

We offer a range of activities for schools andcolleges, with the aim of increasing awarenessof Higher Education and encouraging youngpeople to consider the opportunities available tothem. These activities range from pre-application advice and guidance talks tointeractive sessions aimed at raising theaspirations of younger pupils.

The following are some of the activities whichyour school might be interested in:

FOR YEARS 12 AND 13Pre-application advice and guidancePresentations on preparing for Higher Educationare offered by Bangor’s Schools Liaison Officers.

Schools Lecture SchemeAcademic departments can provide speakers tovisit schools to give lectures on a range of A/AScurriculum topics, as well as broader themes.

Student-led ActivitiesCurrent Bangor students can visit your school tolead a question-and-answer session on studentlife and what it’s like to study at University.

Easter Revision CoursesThe long-established revision courses provideextra tuition and support for A/AS students withthe topics covered regularly including: Biology,Chemistry, Mathematics, Physics, Design andTechnology.

Visits to the UniversityA tailored programme is drawn up for eachschool wishing to bring pupils on a day orresidential visit to Bangor. The activities availableinclude visits to academic departments; campustours; workshops/presentations on team-building, graduate careers, study skills andprogression to Higher Education. The visits canbe either day-long or residential visits.

Summer SchoolThe University organises an annual Taste ofHigher Education Summer School. This is athree-day residential event which gives youngpeople from north Wales the opportunity to findout more about university life. The SummerSchool includes workshops about differentsubject areas, highlights progression routes toHE, and provides information about studentfinance and the support available.

FOR YOUNGER PUPILSActivities can also be arranged for schools whowant to raise the aspirations of younger pupilsand introduce the concept of going on to HigherEducation. These include student-led workshops,study skills sessions and visits to the University.

SERVICES TOSCHOOLS ANDCOLLEGES

For more information on any of the activitiesaimed at either Years 12 and 13 or youngerpupils, please contact:

THE STUDENT RECRUITMENT UNITBangor University, Bangor LL57 2DGTel: 01248 388144/382005E-mail: marketing@bangor.ac.uk

65

2 Introduction6 Advantages of Studying at Bangor14 Who Chooses to Study at Bangor?21 Accommodation26 Social Life and the Students’ Union30 Clubs and Societies32 Sporting Life and the Great Outdoors36 Location and Surrounding Area38 Welcome Week42 Careers and Employability Service44 Information for International Students50 Study at Bangor54 Supporting our Students56 Financing your Studies58 Bursaries and Scholarships61 An Opportunity to Study Overseas62 Mature Students64 Part-time Study and Lifelong Learning65 Services to Schools and Colleges66 Entry Requirements68 How to Apply70 Open Days72 Joint Honours Degrees75 Course Details258 Index by Subject263 General Index264 Postgraduate Opportunities265 Useful Contacts

INTRODUCTION& GENERALINFORMATION

If you find it difficultto read the size ofprint in this book,please look at ourwebsitewww.bangor.ac.ukfor details of ourcourses and facilities.

UCAS CodeBangr B06

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

The University makes all reasonable efforts toensure that the information in this Prospectus iscorrect at the time of printing (February 2011).

The University makes all reasonable efforts toprovide the courses, tuition and learning support,research opportunities and other services andfacilities with reasonable care and skill and in theway described in this Prospectus. However, theUniversity shall be entitled if it reasonablyconsiders it to be necessary (including in order tomanage its resources and to improve the qualityof its provision) to make changes to this provisionincluding:

• to make changes to (for example) the contentand syllabus of courses and methods ofteaching and assessment (including in relationto placements);

• to suspend or discontinue courses.

In the unlikely event that the Universitydiscontinues or does not provide a course orchanges it significantly before it begins, theUniversity will tell the relevant individuals at theearliest possible opportunity. An individual will beentitled to withdraw from the course by tellingthe University in writing within a reasonable timeof being informed of the change.

The University will make available to studentssuch learning support and other services andfacilities as it considers appropriate but may varywhat it provides and how it provides it (forexample, the University may consider it desirableto change the way it provides library or ITsupport).

The willingness of the University to consider anapplication is no guarantee of acceptance.Students are admitted to the University on thebasis that the information they provide on theirapplication form is complete and correct.

USEFUL CONTACTS

INTERNATIONAL OFFICETel: +44 1248 382028E-mail: international@bangor.ac.uk

MONEY SUPPORT UNITTel: 01248 383566/383637E-mail: moneysupport@bangor.ac.uk

OPEN DAY AND OTHER VISITSTel: 01248 388143E-mail: visits@bangor.ac.uk

PROSPECTUSES(English, Welsh and Postgraduate)AND OTHER UNIVERSITY LITERATURETel: 01248 383561/382005E-mail: prospectus@bangor.ac.uk

STUDENT HOUSING OFFICETel: 01248 382034E-mail: studenthousing@bangor.ac.uk

STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICESTel: 01248 382024E-mail: studentservices@bangor.ac.uk

BANGOR UNIVERSITY GWYNEDD LL57 2DGTel: 01248 351151Website: www.bangor.ac.uk

ADMISSIONSTel: 01248 388484E-mail: admissions@bangor.ac.uk

AUGUST RESULTS HELPLINETel: 0800 085 1818

THE MILES DYSLEXIA CENTRETel: 01248 383843E-mail: dyslex-student@bangor.ac.uk

ENGLISH LANGUAGE ANDFOUNDATION COURSESTel: +44 1248 382252E-mail: elcos@bangor.ac.uk

HALLS OFFICETel: 01248 382667E-mail: halls@bangor.ac.uk

Bangor

Belfast

Dublin

Glasgow

Edinburgh

LondonDover

SouthamptonExeter

Cardiff

Carlisle

Newcastle

Birmingham

Liverpool Manchester

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DESIGN/IMAGES: COWBOIS/HAMILTONPRINT: GWASG DWYFOR, PENYGROES

2012www.bangor.ac.uk

BANGOR UNIVER

SITY 2012U

CAS Code: B

angr B06

BANGOR UNIVERSITYUNDERGRADUATEPROSPECTUS 2012