University of Northampton International College celebrates its first birthday

The University of Northampton International College (UNIC) celebrates one year since its first students started their courses this month.

Based in the University of Northampton’s Park Campus, UNIC has welcomed nearly 200 international students in that time. More than 100 have gone on to study at the University of Northampton with a degree course.

An Associate College of the University, UNIC is a pathway college for international students seeking to access higher education. Students hail from over 30 different countries. This September, the college welcomed another successful intake to the University.

University of Northampton International College celebrates one year since students started studying.

Run by leading global education provider Navitas, the college offers Foundation, First Year and Pre-Master’s programmes in a range of subjects.

The progression rate (students who followed their UNIC studies by opting for a further course at University of Northampton) for the first semester was 97%. In the previous semester, an outstanding 100% of Pre-master’s students passed their course ready to start their Master’s with the university this September.

Craig McIlwain, College Director/Principal said: “It is hard to believe we have only been open for 12 months as it feels like a lot has happened here in such a relatively short space of time. We have created a real family atmosphere where we know each and every student that walks through our doors so we can give them the best possible start to their UK studies.

“Our statistics so far have been fantastic and it is an improving picture. 70% of modules had a 90%-100% pass rate this semester, this is up 6% on last semester and a figure we aim to continue growing.”

Sayyorakhon Yunusova from Uzbekistan took a Pre-Master’s to LLM Commercial Law course at UNIC. She said: “With the beginning of my course, I noticed how my speaking and writing skills improved instantly. I got invaluable life experience, which books and pre-reading would never have taught me.

“I couldn’t have achieved what I have without my start at UNIC. I was able to adjust to the UK and gain confidence before studying my Master’s which set me up for success and for that I will always be thankful.”

Matthew Haines, Head of Student Recruitment & Marketing (International/EU) at the University of Northampton: “International Students make a vital contribution to the academic and social life of the University. The partnership with Navitas provides an important first step for many students looking to achieve a University of Northampton degree.

“We are delighted that the partnership has been so successful and look forward to welcoming many more UNIC students to the University over the coming years.”

Students who are interested in courses at UNIC can look at their website or follow their Facebook and Twitter pages.