Cheltenham is a small city of about 80,000 situated in the picturesque Cotswolds, an area of outstanding natural beauty, which annually attracts six million tourists from all over the world. Cheltenham is centrally located, and not far from much larger cities such as London (two hours), Birmingham (40 minutes), Bristol (40 minutes) and Oxford (40 minutes) with direct rail links to all.
Community Connections
Cheltenham is a cultural hub! The city hosts more than 40 festivals throughout each year, attracting top international professionals. During the fall literature festival, Cheltenham welcomes more than 600 of the world’s best writers, actors, politicians and poets. In the spring, the city premiers international jazz legends and rising artists. Cheltenham is also home to the famous horse race, “The Cheltenham Gold Cup.” During one week in March, this event attracts more than 200,000 people from around the world – turning the whole city into one big celebration.
Cultural Activities & Excursions
Experience Cheltenham and England as a local with the help of your Resident Director, who was born and raised there. Journey with your RD to different local treasures, historic sites and famous landmarks, designed to enhance and deepen your understanding and appreciation of your new home. Excursions outside of the city vary by semester but in the past have included Bath, with its famous Roman bathhouses, the infamous Neolithic stone formation Stonehenge, and London, the capital of the UK and one of the most famous cities in the world.
Academics
At the University of Gloucestershire, you will study alongside British students and be among a diverse student body comprising international students from more than 40 countries. BCA students are often the only American students in their classes, making it easy to connect to local students and faculty. The university’s wide array of courses in many disciplines makes it an excellent location for you to fulfill major or general education requirements. Film studies, Sport & Exercise Science and Education are some of the top disciplines at the university.