Aston University
Birmingham university built around placement years and degree apprenticeships.
About Aston University
Aston sits in central Birmingham and is one of the strongest UK universities for social mobility — a large share of students are the first in their family to go to university.
Placement years are a core part of most courses, and Aston runs a significant portfolio of degree apprenticeships with regional employers.
It is a good option if you want a professional, employment-focused degree without leaving a major city.
STEM courses
Mechanical Engineering BEng/MEng
Undergraduate · 3–5 years
Placement year strongly encouraged.
Typical entry: ABB
Optometry BSc
Undergraduate · 3 years
Leads to pre-registration and GOC registration.
Typical entry: AAB
Digital & Technology Solutions Degree Apprenticeship
Apprenticeship · 4 years
Paid, fees covered by the employer.
Typical entry: Employer-led
Pharmacy MPharm
Undergraduate · 4 years
Community and hospital placement experience.
Typical entry: ABB
Graduate outcomes
86%
Graduate employment (15 months)
£27,000
Median graduate salary
~70% of eligible courses
Students on placement
Top 5 in England
Social mobility ranking
Entry requirements
- Typical offers of BBB–AAB depending on the course.
- Maths required for engineering, Chemistry and Biology for health courses.
- Aston Ready contextual offers reduce requirements for eligible applicants.
Funding and scholarships
- Aston Excellence Scholarships for high achievers.
- Means-tested bursaries and a placement support fund.
- Degree apprentices pay no tuition fees and earn a salary.
Outreach and access
- Aston Pathway to Healthcare and Engineering programmes for local pupils.
- Sixth form partnership with Aston University Sixth Form College.
- Apprenticeship information evenings for parents and students.
Open days
- Open days in June, September, October and November
- Applicant days from January
- Apprenticeship-specific open evenings