Royal Agricultural University

Royal Agricultural University

UK England

Royal Agricultural University

The Royal Agricultural University (RAU), previously known as the Royal Agricultural College (RAC), is a prestigious institution situated in Cirencester, Gloucestershire, UK. Established in 1845, it holds the distinction of being the first agricultural college in the English-speaking world, embodying a rich legacy of agricultural education and innovation.

Today, the RAU offers an extensive array of over 30 land-based undergraduate and postgraduate programs through its diverse schools, including the School of Agriculture, the School of Business and Entrepreneurship, the School of Equine, and the School of Real Estate and Land Management. Welcoming students from more than 45 countries, the university fosters a globally inclusive learning environment dedicated to excellence in agricultural and related disciplines.

Elevated to full university status in 2013, the institution underwent a name change to reflect its expanded academic scope and prominence. Complementing its academic offerings, the RAU operates three farms in close proximity to the campus, providing students with hands-on practical experience and research opportunities.

In addition to its academic and research endeavors, the RAU boasts a range of state-of-the-art sports facilities on campus, including a gymnasium, an all-weather pitch, and facilities for squash and tennis, fostering a well-rounded student experience. With its commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and practical learning, the RAU continues to be a leading institution shaping the future of agriculture and related industries on a global scale.

Reasons to Choose

Choosing the Royal Agricultural University (RAU) for your higher education offers numerous advantages across academic, professional, and personal dimensions. Here are some compelling reasons to consider the Royal Agricultural University:

  1. Specialized Focus:

    • The RAU is one of the oldest agricultural institutions in the English-speaking world, with a strong reputation for excellence in agriculture, land management, and related disciplines.
    • The university offers specialized undergraduate and postgraduate programs focused on agriculture, agribusiness, rural land management, equine science, and environmental management.
  2. Industry Connections:

    • The RAU has strong ties to the agricultural and rural sectors, with partnerships and collaborations with leading industry organizations, businesses, and government agencies.
    • Students benefit from industry placements, internships, and networking opportunities, gaining practical experience and building valuable connections within the sector.
  3. Practical Learning:

    • The university emphasizes hands-on learning experiences, with practical training, fieldwork, and industry visits integral to many courses.
    • Students have access to the RAU's farm facilities, including farms, laboratories, and research centers, where they can apply theoretical knowledge in real-world agricultural settings.
  4. Expert Faculty:

    • The RAU boasts a team of expert faculty members with extensive experience and expertise in agriculture, land management, agribusiness, and related fields.
    • Students benefit from small class sizes and personalized support from faculty members who are passionate about teaching and mentoring.
  5. Research Opportunities:

    • The RAU is engaged in cutting-edge research in areas such as sustainable agriculture, environmental conservation, rural development, and agricultural technology.
    • Students have the opportunity to participate in research projects, collaborate with faculty members, and contribute to advancements in agricultural science and practice.
  6. Beautiful Campus:

    • Situated in the heart of the picturesque Cotswolds countryside, the RAU offers a stunning and inspiring learning environment.
    • The campus features historic buildings, modern facilities, and extensive green spaces, providing students with a tranquil and idyllic setting for study and relaxation.
  7. Entrepreneurship and Innovation:

    • The RAU encourages entrepreneurship and innovation in agriculture and related industries, supporting students in developing business ideas and launching ventures.
    • Entrepreneurial programs, incubators, and networking events provide students with the skills, resources, and support needed to succeed as agricultural entrepreneurs.
  8. Global Perspective:

    • While rooted in British agricultural tradition, the RAU also offers an international perspective, with students and faculty members from diverse backgrounds and countries.
    • The university fosters global connections through international partnerships, study abroad programs, and research collaborations, preparing students for careers in the global agricultural sector.
  9. Employability:

    • Graduates of the RAU are highly sought after by employers in the agricultural, agribusiness, environmental, and rural sectors.
    • The university's strong industry links, practical training, and focus on employability ensure that graduates are well-equipped for successful careers in their chosen fields.
  10. Alumni Network:

    • The RAU has a global alumni network of successful professionals in agriculture, land management, agribusiness, and related sectors.
    • Alumni events, networking opportunities, and mentoring programs enable students to connect with former graduates, gain insights into career paths, and access valuable career support and guidance.

Choosing the Royal Agricultural University means joining a prestigious institution with a rich heritage, a strong industry focus, and a commitment to excellence in agriculture, land management, and related disciplines.

City

Cirencester

Cirencester, nestled in the heart of east Gloucestershire, England, lies approximately 80 miles west-northwest of London. Positioned along the banks of the River Churn, a tributary of the River Thames, Cirencester holds the distinction of being the largest town in the Cotswold District, renowned for its quintessential English charm and picturesque surroundings.

Notably, Cirencester is home to the esteemed Royal Agricultural University, founded in 1840 and recognized as the oldest agricultural college in the English-speaking world. This institution stands as a testament to the town's rich agricultural heritage and commitment to education in the field.

The town's cultural landscape is further enriched by the Corinium Museum, renowned for its extensive collection of Roman artifacts. Cirencester's Roman roots are deeply embedded, with the town's ancient name, Corinium, believed to be associated with the indigenous British tribe of the Dobunni, sharing linguistic ties with the River Churn.

With a history dating back to at least AD 150, as documented by Ptolemy, Cirencester is steeped in historical significance and cultural heritage. The town is characterized by five main areas: the bustling town center, the charming suburbs of Chesterton and Stratton, originally distinct villages, and the residential neighborhoods of Watermoor and The Beeches. Together, these elements contribute to Cirencester's enduring appeal as a cherished destination brimming with history, natural beauty, and cultural allure.

Royal Agricultural University Times UK University Ranking

Year 2025 2024 2023 2022 2021
Ranking 131 104 102 116 73
Year 2020 2019 2018 2017 2016
Ranking 89 115 86 63 51
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Royal Agricultural University QS World University Ranking

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Royal Agricultural University Times Higher Education World University Ranking

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Royal Agricultural University Facts

  • Name: Royal Agricultural University
  • Type: Public
  • Founded: 1845
  • Location: UK England
  • Region: South West
  • City: Cirencester
  • Teaching Language: English
  • Website: www.rau.ac.uk
  • Number of Students: 1,125
  • International Student Rates: 10.67%
  • Number of Undergraduate International Students: 55
  • Number of Postgraduate International Students: 65
  • Living Cost: 9207-12276pounds/year
  • Male/Female Ratio: 52:48
  • Staff-Student Ratio: 1 : 21.3
  • Completion Rate: 95.9%
  • Student Living in University Accommodation Rate: 34.6%
  • Graduate Employment Rate: 67.9%
  • Student Satisfaction: 3.95 (out of 5)
  • Acceptance Rate: -
  • Research Quality: 2.33 (out of 4)
  • Research Intensity: 0.53 (out of 1)
  • Undergraduate Admission Standard: 125 (maximum 212)
  • Proportion of Good Degrees: 62.6 %
  • IELTS Requirements: Undergraduate: 6.0  |  Postgraduate: 6.5
  • Address: Stroud Rd, Cirencester, Gloucestershire
  • Telephone: 01285 889912
  • Postcode: GL7 6JS
  • Motto: Caring for the Fields and the Beasts
  • Affiliations: GuildHE

Royal Agricultural University

Contact Information

  • Tel: UK: + 44(0)8444 930 990
  • WhatsApp: +44-741-083-5933
  • LINE ID: study1
  • WeChat: SUUKUK
  • E-mail: [email protected]