Your Guide to the Roehampton University Open Day & Campus Visit
Discover what makes London's unique parkland campus special at the upcoming Roehampton University open day.
Updated 4 min read
Choosing where to study for your undergraduate or postgraduate degree is one of the most significant decisions you will make. For prospective students considering studying in the UK capital, attending a Roehampton University open day offers an unbeatable opportunity to experience life at one of London's most unique academic institutions. Set across a stunning, 54-acre parkland campus in southwest London, the university combines the vibrant energy of a world-class city with the tight-knit, welcoming community feel of a traditional campus university.
Whether you are just beginning your higher education journey or are a mature student looking to upskill, this comprehensive guide will help you navigate your upcoming campus visit, prepare your itinerary, and make the absolute most of your time on site.
Why Attend a Roehampton University Open Day?
While prospectuses, websites, and virtual tours give you a glimpse into university life, nothing compares to walking the grounds yourself. A prospective student event at Roehampton allows you to get a genuine feel for the atmosphere, check out the accommodation options, and see the teaching facilities firsthand. You will have direct access to academic staff, current undergraduates, and support teams who can answer all your burning questions about student life.
Furthermore, visiting in person helps you evaluate the practicalities of student life. You can test out the commute from central London, check out the local amenities in Roehampton and Barnes, and visualize yourself studying in the modern libraries and specialist labs.
Planning Your Campus Visit: Key Highlights
A typical Roehampton University open day is packed with activities designed to give you a 360-degree view of the university. To ensure you do not miss a thing, it helps to know what key areas to explore:
- Academic Subject Sessions: Attend taster lectures, chat with lecturers from your chosen department, and review course modules, entry requirements, and assessment methods.
- Campus Tours: Led by student ambassadors, these tours take you through historic buildings like Whitelands College, modern lecture theatres, social spaces, and green quads.
- Accommodation Viewings: Step inside student halls of residence to see room layouts, shared kitchens, and communal facilities.
- Support Services Fair: Speak directly with advisors covering student finance, disability support, careers, mental health, and study abroad opportunities.
Essential Checklist for Your Visit
- Pre-book your ticket online as popular subject talks fill up fast.
- Plan your travel route in advance—check train and bus times to Barnes or Putney stations.
- Wear comfortable shoes; you will be doing plenty of walking around the expansive parkland campus.
- Bring a notebook or your smartphone to jot down contact details, room numbers, and quick thoughts.
What to Ask During Your Visit
Maximizing your time at any prospective student event means asking targeted questions. Do not be shy—staff and student ambassadors are there to help you make an informed choice.
Top Questions to Ask Academic Staff and Students
- How many contact hours (lectures, seminars, practicals) will I have per week for my specific course?
- What kind of career support and placement opportunities are embedded within the curriculum?
- What is the breakdown of coursework versus exams for my degree?
- What are the local transport links like, and is it easy to travel into central London?
- What social clubs, societies, and sports teams are most active on campus?
"Visiting the campus during the open day completely changed my mind. I initially wanted a central London uni, but having the parkland space combined with easy access into town was the best of both worlds!" - Chloe, BSc Psychology Student
Alternative Options: Exploring the Virtual Tour
If you are an international applicant, unable to travel due to health reasons, or missed the main open day dates, do not worry. Roehampton offers an immersive virtual tour platform. This interactive online tool lets you explore 360-degree views of lecture halls, student accommodation, the library, and outdoor recreational areas from the comfort of your home.
While online tours cannot replicate the physical atmosphere or let you taste the campus coffee, they are fantastic for checking out facilities before making a final decision or attending subsequent applicant days.
Budgeting for Your University Life in London
One of the most common topics discussed during student finance talks at open days is the cost of living. While London has a reputation for being expensive, studying at a campus-based institution in Zone 3 like Roehampton can often be more affordable than living dead in the city centre.
| Expense Category | Estimated Weekly Cost | Estimated Monthly Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Campus Accommodation (Self-Catered) | £160 - £230 | £640 - £920 |
| Groceries & Supermarket Shopping | £40 - £60 | £160 - £240 |
| Local Transport (Student Oyster Card) | £25 - £40 | £100 - £160 |
| Socialising, Leisure & Societies | £30 - £50 | £120 - £200 |
Conclusion: Making the Most of Your Journey
Attending a Roehampton University open day is an invaluable milestone in your university application journey. By engaging with staff, exploring the breathtaking parkland grounds, and asking the right questions, you will gain the confidence needed to choose your academic future. Be sure to check the official university website for upcoming open day dates and secure your spot early!