Unlocking Your Future: University of Lancashire Open Day Guide
Discover what to expect, essential questions to ask, and how to plan your perfect University of Lancashire campus visit.
Updated 5 min readUniversity of Lancashire
Welcome to Your Future: The University of Lancashire Experience
Choosing where to spend your university years is one of the most significant decisions you will ever make. While league tables, prospectus booklets, and online reviews offer a great starting point, nothing quite compares to experiencing a campus firsthand. Attending a University of Lancashire open day is your ultimate opportunity to step into your potential future home, walk the corridors, meet your future lecturers, and feel the unique buzz of the student community.
Located in the heart of the North West, the University of Lancashire is renowned for its industry-focused courses, world-class facilities, and incredibly supportive student environment. Whether you are looking to study engineering, health sciences, business, or the creative arts, a structured campus visit will help you determine if this institution aligns with your academic goals and lifestyle preferences.
"Stepping onto the University of Lancashire campus during the open day completely changed my perspective. Seeing the state-of-the-art labs in person and speaking directly with my future tutors made my decision incredibly easy!" - Sarah Jenkins, 2nd Year Aerospace Engineering StudentWhy You Shouldn't Miss a Prospective Student Event
A prospective student event is much more than just a presentation; it is an immersive experience. It allows you to peer behind the curtain of academic life and discover what truly happens on campus day-to-day. Here is why prioritizing an in-person campus visit is vital for your decision-making process:
- Explore World-Class Facilities: From high-tech mock hospital wards to professional television studios and engineering workshops, you can see the exact equipment you will be training on.
- Meet Academic Staff: This is your chance to discuss course modules, assessment methods, placement opportunities, and career pathways directly with the academics who write and teach the curriculum.
- Get the Real Student Perspective: Chatting with current student ambassadors gives you an honest, unvarnished look at social life, budget management, and the overall student experience in Lancashire.
- Tour the Accommodation: Take a physical walk-through of the student halls. See the room layouts, check the kitchen facilities, and calculate the walking distance to your primary lecture halls.
How to Find and Book Open Day Dates
The University of Lancashire hosts several undergraduate and postgraduate open days throughout the academic year, typically scheduled during the summer and autumn months. To ensure you do not miss out, it is crucial to keep an eye on the official university portal for updated open day dates.
Spaces for subject-specific talks and accommodation tours can fill up rapidly, so early registration is highly recommended. When you book your place, you will also receive tailored schedules, travel discount vouchers, and key updates leading up to the event day.
The Ultimate Checklist: Preparing for Your Campus Visit
To get the absolute most out of your day, you need to arrive prepared. A disorganised visit often leads to missed sessions, tired feet, and forgotten questions. Follow this step-by-step preparation checklist to master your visit:
Essential Open Day Checklist
- Pre-register your ticket: Save the QR code on your phone for fast-track entry at the registration hubs.
- Review the program early: Highlight the specific subject talks and campus tours you cannot afford to miss.
- Map your route: Plan your travel by train or car, factoring in potential morning traffic around the campus area.
- Wear comfortable footwear: You will easily clock up 10,000 steps exploring the sprawling campus and accommodation blocks.
- Prepare your questions: Write down specific queries regarding modules, entry requirements, and mental health support.
Crucial Questions to Ask During Your Visit
It is easy to get swept up in the excitement of a new campus, but remember that this visit is an interview of the university by you. To ensure the University of Lancashire is the right fit, you need to ask targeted questions to ask during your sessions. Here are some of the most critical questions to pose to lecturers and student guides:
Questions for Course Tutors
- How is this course assessed? Is it exam-heavy, or does it focus more on coursework and practical projects?
- Are there opportunities for study abroad semesters or year-long industry placements?
- What careers or postgraduate pathways do graduates from this course typically pursue?
- What kind of academic and pastoral support is available if I struggle with a particular module?
Questions for Current Students
- What is the cost of living like around Lancashire? Are student discounts widely accepted?
- How easy is it to find part-time work alongside your studies?
- What are the best student societies and sports clubs to join as a fresher?
- How safe do you feel walking around the campus and the local city area at night?
Can’t Make It in Person? Explore via Virtual Tour
If travel constraints, budget limitations, or scheduling conflicts prevent you from attending an in-person event, do not worry. The University of Lancashire offers a comprehensive, interactive virtual tour experience online.
Through the virtual platform, you can explore 360-degree views of lecture theatres, navigate around the student union, and take self-guided digital walks through the various accommodation options. While it cannot fully replace the physical atmosphere of a bustling open day, it is an excellent alternative tool to help you narrow down your university choices from the comfort of your own home.
Planning Your Travel and Budget for the Day
Attending open days can quickly accumulate costs, especially if you are traveling from the other side of the country. Planning your budget carefully ensures a stress-free trip. Below is a realistic estimation of the costs you might incur during your campus visit:
| Expense Item | Estimated Cost (GBP) | Tips to Save Money |
|---|---|---|
| Train Travel (Preston Station) | £15 - £55 | Book at least 4 to 6 weeks in advance using a 16-25 Railcard to save up to 1/3 of the ticket price. |
| On-Campus Lunch / Refreshments | £5 - £12 | Take advantage of student union food vouchers often handed out to visitors at the main gates. |
| Parking / Local Transit | £0 - £8 | Use the university's designated free parking spaces for registered prospective student event visitors. |
| Overnight Stay (If required) | £45 - £85 | Look for budget hotel chains near the city center or ask the university if they offer discounted local partner rates. |
Final Thoughts: Making Your Decision
Ultimately, a University of Lancashire open day is designed to give you clarity and confidence. Take your time, absorb the environment, talk to as many people as possible, and try to picture yourself living, studying, and growing here over the next three or four years. By planning your travel, preparing your questions, and engaging with the community, you will leave campus with a clear vision of your academic future.