The University of Buckingham is the only independent university in the UK with a Royal Charter, distinguishing it from other institutions. Established in 1973 as University College Buckingham, it was granted university status in 1983. The university operates on a private, not-for-profit basis, relying on student fees and endowments rather than direct government funding.

Located in the historic town of Buckingham, the university boasts a riverside campus characterized by restored Georgian buildings and modern facilities. Its academic offerings include a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs, with a notable feature being the two-year honours degrees, allowing students to complete their studies in a condensed timeframe. Additionally, the university offers a 1+2 pathway, combining a foundation year with a two-year degree, enabling students to achieve a full honours degree in three years.

The university maintains a strong emphasis on teaching quality, with small class sizes and an Oxbridge-style tutorial system. This approach has contributed to high student satisfaction ratings, with the university ranking in the top 10 in the UK for student satisfaction according to The Good University Guide 2023. Furthermore, it holds a silver rating for Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) 2023, indicating a high standard of teaching and student outcomes.

In terms of research, the University of Buckingham has established specialized institutes focusing on areas such as education, humanities, and business. While it is not a member of the Russell Group, the university’s research initiatives contribute to its academic reputation.

The university’s commitment to providing quality education and fostering a supportive learning environment has made it a unique institution within the UK’s higher education landscape.