Chester or Salford?

Hello, I have two offers, one for Chester and one for Salford. Both to study Computer Science.

I am struggling to choose between the two universities and I am after some recommendations, advice, good areas for accommodation etc

If it helps, I am a mature student (unfortunately, 27).

Thanks
Matthew

Neither. They are both terrible. Have you considered Manchester or Newcastle?

Why are they both terrible?

Low rankings. Not nice places. Not very respectable. Essentially that’s most of them. Low job prospects as well

I have lived near Chester all my life, nothing wrong with it as a place...

However, they are my offers, for many reasons, I probably wouldn’t get Manchester or Newcastle etc. So I am after advice on my offers.

Hello, I have two offers, one for Chester and one for Salford. Both to study Computer Science to start this September.

I am struggling to choose between the two universities and I am after some recommendations from people who are at or used to attend either of these universities...
- Living costs,
- Lifestyle,
- Accommodation, good areas and also places to avoid,
- The university itself,
- The Computer Science course,
- Nightlife (not too important, at 27 I don't want to be 'on the lash' constantly.)
- Sport opportunities, I play football and I snowboard, so trips to the alps, football teams etc

I have done lots of research myself but I think it's better to hear from people who have already 'been there, done that'! If there is anything else on the list above I've missed, feel free to let me know.

Thanks
Matthew

Hi @MatthewJames94
Congratulations on both your offers you should be so proud! I struggled to pick between universities as well, I think it is quite a common problem.
I would definitely recommend checking out both universities in person if you can, creating a pro and cons list and just going with your gut.

I am a 2nd year physiotherapy student at the University of Salford and I absolutely love it! Also, Russel Group Universities aren’t everything! I am more than happy to answer your questions!

- The university suits people of every budget. It ultimately depends on how much you want or can afford to spend. Salford is quite a cheap place to live overall, especially in terms of accommodation.
- Salford has a great lifestyle. The university is a campus set up and has a lot of greenery so it’s a really calming and relaxing place to study. But it is also a 5 min train/bus or 20 min walk into the centre of Manchester! Also, Salford Quays is really up and coming and you can get the bus there for free.
- There is 2 main types of accommodation at the university. Peel Park Quarter is an en suite shared kitchen accommodation. It is more expensive but has a open plan kitchen, dining, living room so great for socialising. However, you can only stay there for year 1. John Lester and Eddie Coleman is cheaper accommodation and shared bathroom and kitchen. Other than that they are quite similar. However, you can live at JL and EC for all years. It is also right next to the shops so less of a trek for shopping. You can check them both out here. There is also lots of great private accommodation if you fancy living alone or with less people.
Salford gets a really bad reputation. It is really up and coming now since the move of BBC and ITV to the Quays. You just have to remember like any city there is a bit of crime and more dodgey areas, but I like to think that’s the same everywhere. I have never had a problem with this at university as of yet and security on campus are amazing.
- I think I have covered most of the points of the university. One thing I will say is everyone is so lovely and all the tutors I have met have been so helpful and encouraging. The university prides itself on great links to industry to make you stand out when looking for jobs.
- Unfortunately, I do not know much about the computer science course! We do have a website called Unibuddy where you can ask current students questions. I would recommend looking at it here and seeing if there is someone who does you course that might be able to help you out!
- The nightlife is great here. We mainly go out to Manchester for live music and clubbing. There is clubs and music for everyone taste! There is loads of chain and independent bars and restaurants dotted all across Manchester and at the Quays. If you want to do something there is always something to do.
- We have a great range of societies which you can check out here. I know we do have football and snowboarding (Salford Snow). I know Salford snow is super popular and has a great social schedule with trips, we have a snowboarding centre nearby.

I hope this helps and has answered some of your questions. If you have any more questions or what me to expand on anything at all, please let me know. Otherwise good luck and I am sure you will pick the right university for you.

Holly - Student Ambassador

Thank you for the information, very helpful! Just one question, how do you cope with the travel from Salford to Manchester etc, I’ve looked online and it seems very expensive. Thanks