Mastering Your Oxford Brookes University Open Day Experience
Your ultimate playbook for exploring campuses, meeting academics, and making the most of your prospective student event at Oxford Brookes.
Updated 5 min readOxford Brookes University
Introduction to Your Oxford Brookes University Open Day
Choosing where to spend the next three or four years of your life is no small decision. For prospective undergraduates, stepping onto campus is often the turning point in the application journey. Attending an Oxford Brookes University open day gives you an authentic feel for the vibrant academic community, world-class facilities, and the historic yet modern atmosphere of Oxford. Known for its strong teaching quality, excellent graduate employability, and innovative approach to learning, Oxford Brookes attracts ambitious students from all over the globe. Whether you are eyeing up the stunning John Henry Brookes Building at Headington Hill or exploring the specialized engineering labs at Wheatley, making the most of your visit is crucial.
This comprehensive guide is designed to take the guesswork out of your university visit. From navigating open day dates and booking a virtual tour if you cannot travel, to knowing exactly what questions to ask academic staff, we have packed this walkthrough with insider knowledge. Let’s dive into how you can turn a standard campus visit into a strategic fact-finding mission that sets you up for academic success.
Understanding Oxford Brookes Campuses and Locations
Before you lock in your travel arrangements, it is important to understand that Oxford Brookes University operates across multiple main campuses, each housing specific faculties. Planning your itinerary ahead of time ensures you do not miss out on touring the specific facilities relevant to your desired course of study.
Headington Campus
As the main hub of the university, Headington is split across a few adjacent sites, notably Gipsy Lane and Headington Hill. Gipsy Lane is home to the iconic John Henry Brookes Building, which has won numerous architectural awards for its state-of-the-art library, teaching spaces, and social areas. If you are studying business, humanities, social sciences, or health and life sciences, you will likely spend a lot of time here.
Wheatley and Harcourt Hill Campuses
Wheatley Campus traditionally hosts engineering, computing, and mathematics programs, boasting cutting-edge labs and technical workshops. Meanwhile, Harcourt Hill Campus, located slightly west of the city centre, is the tranquil home for education, theology, sports, and arts courses. Each campus has its own distinct vibe, making a tailored campus visit essential for understanding where your student life will actually unfold.
"I visited the Headington campus during the autumn open day and completely fell in love with the library facilities. Seeing where I would actually study made the application feel real." - Sarah, Business Management UndergraduateCampus Visit Essentials Checklist
- Check which specific campus hosts your course department before booking tours.
- Download the campus maps and open day app in advance to plan your walking routes.
- Allow at least 45 minutes of transit time if you need to travel between Headington and Harcourt Hill.
- Wear comfortable shoes—you will be doing a lot of walking and stair climbing!
Navigating Open Day Dates and Booking Your Slot
Securing your spot at an official prospective student event requires a bit of foresight. Oxford Brookes typically holds major open days in the summer (June/July) and autumn (September/October) terms. Booking usually opens a couple of months in advance, and the most popular subject talks and accommodation tours fill up astonishingly fast.
If you are unable to attend physical open day dates due to international travel restrictions, financial constraints, or scheduling conflicts, do not panic. The university offers a comprehensive virtual tour platform that allows you to explore 360-degree views of lecture theatres, accommodation blocks, and social hubs from the comfort of your living room. However, whenever possible, an in-person visit remains the gold standard for gauging the atmosphere and talking face-to-face with current undergraduates.
Essential Questions to Ask During Your Visit
One of the biggest mistakes applicants make is wandering aimlessly around a campus without a plan. To maximize your time, you should come prepared with targeted questions to ask student ambassadors, admissions tutors, and financial advisors. Here is a curated list of questions divided by category to help guide your conversations:
Top Questions for Academic Staff
- What percentage of the course is assessed via exams versus coursework and practical projects?
- Are there opportunities for study abroad programs or industrial placement years?
- What kind of academic support is available if a student falls behind or needs extra help?
- How large are the typical lecture sizes and seminar groups in the first year?
Top Questions for Student Ambassadors
- What is the social life really like on this campus outside of lectures?
- How easy is it to find part-time student jobs in Oxford?
- What are your favorite and least favorite things about studying at Oxford Brookes?
- Which student societies or clubs do you recommend joining?
Budgeting and Living Costs in Oxford
Studying in Oxford comes with incredible cultural and academic perks, but it is also one of the most expensive student cities in the UK. During your campus visit, take time to explore university-managed accommodation and ask about private renting options in the local area. Understanding the financial reality early helps you budget effectively for your future.
| Expense Category | Average Weekly Cost (University Hall) | Average Weekly Cost (Private Rent/Shared) |
|---|---|---|
| Rent (Bills Included) | £160 - £220 | £140 - £190 |
| Groceries & Food | £40 - £60 | £40 - £60 |
| Transport & Local Travel | £15 - £25 | £20 - £30 |
| Social & Leisure | £30 - £50 | £30 - £50 |
Keep in mind that Oxford is an extremely pedestrian- and cyclist-friendly city. Many students choose to buy a second-hand bicycle or use reliable local bus networks to get around, which significantly cuts down on monthly transit costs compared to larger metropolitan areas like London.
Conclusion: Making Your Final Decision
Attending an Oxford Brookes University open day is much more than a box-ticking exercise; it is your very first taste of university independence. By mapping out your campus visits, engaging with current students, asking insightful questions, and carefully reviewing accommodation options, you will walk away with the clarity needed to make an informed choice. Trust your instincts, take plenty of notes, and enjoy exploring what could soon be your new academic home.