Hartpury University

ABOUT UNIVERSITY

Hartpury University, formerly Hartpury College, achieved full university status in 2018 and now operates as both Hartpury University and Hartpury College, offering a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes to students from the UK and overseas. The institution delivers higher education across five specialist academic departments, with subject areas including agriculture, animal studies, business, equine studies, sport, and veterinary nursing. In February 2024, Hartpury further strengthened its public profile with the appointment of actor Martin Clunes as its inaugural Chancellor. The university has developed a strong academic reputation, particularly in teaching quality, student experience, and employability outcomes. Nationally, Hartpury University is ranked within the Times and Sunday Times league tables and is recognised as one of the leading institutions in the South West of England. It has consistently performed well in student-focused measures, being placed among the top universities in the UK for teaching quality and student experience in recent Times University Guides. Hartpury began contributing to the UK’s Research Excellence Framework in 2021, with research strengths centred on sport and exercise science, especially equestrian-related studies supported by specialist facilities such as its water treadmill. In 2023, the university achieved Gold ratings across all categories of the Teaching Excellence Framework, reflecting excellence in overall performance, student experience, and student outcomes. Hartpury College has also been rated outstanding by Ofsted in all areas, with exceptionally high A-level and BTEC pass rates. Graduate employability is a key strength, with the vast majority of graduates progressing into employment, further study, or purposeful activity. The institution has received multiple national awards, including top rankings for teaching quality and lecturers, reinforcing its reputation for delivering high-quality, career-focused education.