which university I should choose for pharmacy? birmingham, brighton, newcastle

Hi everyone,

I’ve received offers from the universities mentioned in the title:
• University of Birmingham
• University of Brighton
• Newcastle University

I’m really struggling to decide where to go and would appreciate any insights!

Here’s where I’m at:
• Birmingham: I like it ranking-wise and it seems quite reputable. But I’ve also heard mixed or even controversial opinions about the student experience and city life
• Brighton: It has great student satisfaction and a high employment rate, which I find reassuring. However, its overall ranking is on the lower side, and I’m not sure how that might affect long-term prospects. Also city is pretty small compared to other two cities
• Newcastle: Seems like a good place to be, but I don’t know much about it. I’m also a bit concerned that their pharmacy course might not be updated with the latest NHS curriculum

If anyone has experience studying pharmacy at these unis or just general advice on cities, I’d love to hear your thoughts!

Reply 1

Leanne_USW

Hi @enndure,

Choosing a university can be a big decision. It's important you're content in the place that will become your home for the next few years.

I recommend you attend the open days for each university, to get a feel for the campus vibes. Where will you feel happier? While at the event, take the time to explore the local area.

You're more likely to thrive on your course in the right environment for you.

Good luck with making your decision. I wish you every success on your chosen course.

-Leanne😊

Reply 2

UniOfBrightonRep

Official Rep

Original post

by enndure

Hi everyone,
I’ve received offers from the universities mentioned in the title:
• University of Birmingham
• University of Brighton
• Newcastle University
I’m really struggling to decide where to go and would appreciate any insights!
Here’s where I’m at:
• Birmingham: I like it ranking-wise and it seems quite reputable. But I’ve also heard mixed or even controversial opinions about the student experience and city life
• Brighton: It has great student satisfaction and a high employment rate, which I find reassuring. However, its overall ranking is on the lower side, and I’m not sure how that might affect long-term prospects. Also city is pretty small compared to other two cities
• Newcastle: Seems like a good place to be, but I don’t know much about it. I’m also a bit concerned that their pharmacy course might not be updated with the latest NHS curriculum
If anyone has experience studying pharmacy at these unis or just general advice on cities, I’d love to hear your thoughts!

Hi @enndure
Its great to see your considering Brighton and congrats on your offer!!

I would highly suggest talking to Nessa on our Unibuddy system! she is currently studying Pharmacy and would be able to tell you so much more than me about what its like to study Pharmacy here :smile:

a little

•

Our pharmacy courses are ranked 3rd in the UK overall and 5th in the UK for career prospects — Guardian University Guide 2025

•

1st in UK for graduate earnings in pharmacy, three years after graduating – Longitudinal Education Outcomes 2024

At the end of the day, you go to uni to get a job afterwards so these stats are very good! Lower rankings do not affect prospects as we are Accredited by the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) which is the council you will need to register with to work as a pharmacist

Brighton is also in the Top 20 in the UK for value-added, which compares students’ degree results with their entry qualifications to show how effectively they are taught – proving that students go further at Brighton. (Guardian University Guide 2025)

Even though brighton is small it is a very bustling city and is full of life! Ive added a city tour so you can see the highlights of brighton!