Making friends from day one

University is about more than achieving your degree; it’s about meeting like-minded people who will become lifelong friends. Going to university is unlike any other experience, so to share that with your friends is something special. There’ll be lots of opportunities to help you find where you belong. 

Residence Life

One of the advantages of halls is our exclusive Residence Life programme, designed to help you test out new hobbies, make friends and settle into your new surroundings. You can choose to get involved in free activities including sports tournaments, quiz nights, cookery classes or go on low-price day trips to visit popular UK cities. 

Commuting

Commuting to university has become a popular choice among students as it offers the chance to experience all that higher education has to offer whilst continuing to enjoy all the comforts of home. Our fantastic transport links and central location means you’ll never have to miss out on any aspect of student life, and you’ll have the same opportunities to take part in sporting and social activities as those living in our halls of residence. 

Check out our commuting to university page for tips on making student life work for you and what your options are for commuting to Derby. 

Your Union of Students

The Union of Students supports all students before, during and even after university. It’s run by students, and you automatically become a member when you start at Derby. They provide spaces and activities to help you relax, connect with others and express your student voice. 

The Union offers over 80 communities - the perfect places to meet new people, continue a much-loved hobby or try something new and enrich your university life. From lacrosse to American football, hiking to debate and Warhammer, there’s something for everyone, and if we don’t have the community you’d like to join, find five people and start a new one!