Sheffield is second in the country for student experience
The University of Sheffield is number one in the country for its Students' Union, as well as joint first for its social life, library facilities and accommodation, according to the Times Higher Education Student Experience Survey.
Overall the University of Sheffield came second in the country in the annual national student experience survey, up from fourth place last year. Out of the 113 universities surveyed, Sheffield was also voted as the university most people would recommend to a friend.
More than 10,000 students were surveyed for the Times Higher Education Student Experience Survey, which aims to show which universities offer the best all-round student experience. Students across the country were asked to rate how their university performed against 21 different attributes which determine a positive and negative student experience.
Students taking part in the survey voted the University of Sheffield as having the best library facilities in the country, alongside the University of Oxford. The University's iconic Western Bank Library has just undergone a £3.4 million facelift. Along with the award-winning Information Commons, it forms part of the outstanding library facilities available to students at the University.
Sheffield's award-winning Students' Union remains at the top of the rankings. The Students' Union, which offers more than 200 sports clubs and societies, reopened in October last year following a £5 million refurbishment. Voted the Best Students' Union in Britain by the Virgin Alternative Guide, the Students' Union has constantly been reinventing itself and rebuilding since the construction of the Graves building in 1936. The refurbished building now features an activity and sport zone for students to exhibit and perform their work.
According to undergraduates, Sheffield offers the best social life (rated top with Leeds and Loughborough) and is at the top of the rankings for its extracurricular activities and societies. The University also came joint first for its student accommodation. The University's student accommodation is now considered to be one of the best in the UK with its Ranmoor and Endcliffe Villages providing accommodation and a vibrant student community for over 4,700 students.
Students' Union President, Joshua Forstenzer said: "We work very hard at improving the student experience year on year and I am thrilled that the creativity and dedication of staff and students is recognised and celebrated by our students. More fundamentally, I believe it is our shared faith in every day student leadership and community building which truly sets Sheffield a part from the rest."
Professor Keith Burnett, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Sheffield, said: "The choice to go to a particular University is so much more than an investment decision about a future career. It is a life-changing opportunity to broaden your horizons and develop socially as well as academically.
"Our top class student facilities are home to a vibrant community and a student experience which is enriching to the whole person. We believe university life in Sheffield will inspire students for the rest of their lives. We are absolutely delighted that our students agree."
For further information please contact: Lindsey Wilson, Media Relations Manager, on 0114 2225338 or email l.bird@sheffield.ac.uk