Overview of the University of Sunderland

The University of Sunderland is one of the leading universities in the United Kingdom, ranked in the Top 40 by the Guardian University Guide 2025 and shortlisted for “University of the Year” at the Times Higher Education Awards 2024. It currently has over 25,600 students studying across its campuses in North East England, London, Hong Kong, and through a global network of partners in more than 15 countries.

With a history spanning over a century—starting in 1901 with the founding of Sunderland Technical College—the University has continually evolved into a modern institution with global impact.

Sunderland is known for its three core strategic priorities:

• Student-Centered Approach: Delivering a transformative education experience for students from all backgrounds.
• Career-Focused Education: Equipping students with job-ready skills through practice-based learning aligned with industry needs.
• Societal Impact: Contributing positively to communities and the economy through research, innovation, and enterprise collaboration.

Over 40% of Sunderland’s students are international, representing 100+ countries, earning it a Top 2 ranking in the UK and Top 10 in Europe for international student diversity (QS Europe 2025).

With a modern and inclusive learning environment, the University of Sunderland fosters comprehensive development—ensuring graduates leave not only with strong academic foundations and practical skills, but also with global connections and the confidence to make a meaningful impact in the world.

Academic Disciplines at the University of Sunderland

• Art and Design: Includes programs in visual arts, graphic design, and other creative disciplines.
• Business, Management, and Finance: Offers courses in business administration, finance, and related fields.
• Computer Science: Covers programs in software development, cybersecurity, and data science.
• Engineering: Provides training in electrical, mechanical, and civil engineering.
• Health and Medical Sciences: Offers courses in nursing, medicine, and healthcare-related fields.
• Law: Includes academic programs in legal studies and related areas.
• Media and Journalism: Covers disciplines such as media studies, journalism, and public relations.
• Education: Provides teacher training and other education-related programs.
• Tourism, Hospitality, and Event Management: Offers programs in tourism management, hospitality, and event organization.
• Social Sciences: Includes courses in psychology, sociology, and other social science disciplines.
• Sport and Exercise Sciences: Offers courses in sports science, sports management, and related areas.
• Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences: Provides training in pharmacology and pharmaceutical studies.
• Data Science and Cybersecurity: Covers programs in data analysis, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity.
• Clinical Medicine and Biomedical Sciences: Offers courses in clinical and biomedical fields.
• Psychology: Provides programs focused on psychology and related disciplines.
• Education and Teacher Training: Includes teacher education programs and related studies.
• Short Courses and Online Learning: Offers flexible learning programs tailored to student needs.
• Postgraduate Research Programs: Provides master’s and doctoral-level studies across various disciplines.
• Collaborative and Distance Learning Programs: Offers joint programs with partner institutions and online learning options.
• Pathway and Academic Enhancement Programs: Includes foundation and academic advancement programs.
• Vocational and Higher Vocational Training: Offers career-oriented and advanced professional training.
• Vocational Programs in Healthcare: Provides vocational training in healthcare and patient care services.
• Vocational Programs in Engineering and Digital Technologies: Offers skills training in engineering and digital technology fields.
• Vocational Programs in Education and Social Care: Provides vocational education in teaching and social care sectors.

At the University of Sunderland, international students have the opportunity to experience life in the UK, explore local culture, improve their language skills, and build a global network. Studying in such an international environment not only leads to a globally recognized qualification but also helps students develop professional skills, gain practical experience, and build the confidence to pursue their careers anywhere in the world.

Collaborative Program with Saigon Business School (SBS)

The University of Sunderland partners with Saigon Business School (SBS) to deliver a bachelor’s degree program in which:

• Students major in Business Management
• The entire 3-year program is completed at SBS in Vietnam
• The degree is awarded by the University of Sunderland
• The qualification is widely recognized internationally

This program offers SBS students—especially those in Vietnam—access to an international curriculum and a UK degree without the need to transfer abroad.

Students still have the option to transfer to the University of Sunderland to complete their final year in the UK.

By joining this program, SBS students become part of the global student community of the University of Sunderland, opening doors to greater opportunities in cultural exchange, career connections, and international recognition.