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CONTENTS Your to do list
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Your first week
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Get to know us
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Student support
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More than a degree
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Students’ Union
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Entertainment
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Enhancing your career
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Fantastic facilities
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Your library
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Fees and finance
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Accommodation
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Campus maps
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What to do before you arrive: Apply for your student loan, if applicable, at: www.gov.uk/student-finance Make sure you’ve arranged and paid for your accommodation, if applicable Complete Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) and health check (healthcare and teaching students only) Send details of your second referee (healthcare students only) Visit your welcome portal at: welcome.beds.ac.uk If you require additional support visit: beds.ac.uk/disability Find your reading lists at: readinglists.beds.ac.uk Download the MyBedsLife app from the Apple app store or Google Play Store Prepare the following documents for registration: • Offer letter • Passport/Visa • Qualifications/certificates • Online registration document from e:Vision • Student loan/finance documents/method to pay remaining fees • DBS and health check (healthcare and teaching students only) Please note: Registration will be fully remote/online with the exception of professional courses. Please look out for an email from joining@beds.ac.uk with further instructions Arriving on campus: Visit our halls of residence and pick up your accommodation keys, if applicable Attend your registration session (Professional courses only) Access BREO - log in at: pwd.beds.ac.uk to change your password. Once you’ve done this you will be able to access BREO anytime at: breo.beds.ac.uk/webapps/login Find details of your course induction at: welcome.beds.ac.uk Attend Welcome events and activities during your first few weeks. For more information visit: welcome.beds.ac.uk If you require any letters or support visit the Student Information Desk (SiD) Once you have registered, sign in to the MyBedsLife app to access your personalised student dashboard Check out what your membership to Beds SU (your Students’ Union) has to offer at: www.bedssu.co.uk
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YOUR FIRST WEEK Welcome to the University of Bedfordshire. We want to make your transition into life at Bedfordshire as easy as possible, which is why we offer you support as well as various opportunities to meet fellow postgraduate students. Our postgraduate courses are innovative both in terms of their design and delivery. The activities of Welcome Week have been specifically designed to prepare you for a different type of learning experience on your course. We’ll have events and activities running during your first few weeks with us, to help you get to know the University, and meet your fellow students. We aim to have a combination of socially distanced face-to-face and online activities to help you settle in and get to know your fellow students and your lecturers. You are actively encouraged to take part in events and activities to give you the best possible start to your university journey and life at Bedfordshire. For a list of events, activities and presentations visit: welcome.beds.ac.uk
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GET TO KNOW US Your first few weeks at university may seem a little daunting, with lots of new people to meet, and things to learn. Here’s some words of wisdom from some of our current students. Michael Alawaye, Beds SU President What are your words of wisdom for new, first-year students? Ensure you participate in various activities during your studies because university is more than a degree, and these activities will help you to grow. What is your favourite thing about the university? The diversity of the university is one of the best things here I think. I’ve been able to get to know people from all over the world and learn about their cultures, which I think has played a big role in my development and career. Judy Vincent, Business Administration (HRM) MBA What is your favourite thing about the university? The fact that the library is open 24/7. I work part-time, so I often have to do my work during unsocialable hours. The fact that there is library or security staff in the library 24/7 is also comforting just in case you need them. What are your words of wisdom for new, first-year students? Try not to worry because you will have an amazing time! And if you do have spare time join a club or society - it’s a great opportunity to make friends. Andre Lionel Missoka Bekey, International Business MSc What is your favourite thing about the university? I really like the cosmopolitan environment that the university provides, and the way the timetable is structured so you have time to get involved in extra activities. What is your favourite memory from your first year? Probably meeting everyone, and making a lot of new friends. Luton was also new to me, so I had lots of things to see and discover.
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STUDENT SUPPORT Throughout your degree you’ll have access to our Student Support team, offering you practical and confidential advice and support. Student Information Desk (SiD) Located on every campus, our Student Information Desks act as your gateway to all student services at Bedfordshire. You can also access SiD online 24/7 to update and log enquiries, or search our FAQ’s. Student Engagement and Mitigation (SEAM) Our advisers can provide confidential and impartial advice on academic, personal and health issues, and can support you if you have any extenuating circumstances throughout your studies. Disability support Our disability support team can assist you if you are affected by a disability, a long-term medical condition, or a specific learning disability. Counselling service We provide professional, confidential counselling for students experiencing problems of a personal or emotional nature that may be interfering with their academic work and life. Mental Health We offer personal support to students experiencing mental health difficulties, as well as support for students returning to study after a period of illness.
Student money advice Our money advice team are available to provide you with general advice on budgeting, and direct you to alternative sources of funding that may be available. Community and faith All students are welcome to join our exciting programme of activities or access our confidential, personal and spiritual support - whether you are a person of faith or not. University Police Liaison The University’s Police Liaison Officer provides crime prevention and safety advice, as well as promoting volunteering and employment opportunities within the police force. International support We have a dedicated International Office based at our Luton campus, which offers support to all of our international students, across all of our campuses. Registering with a doctor’s surgery You will need to register with a local doctor when you join us; we recommend you do this during your induction week. For more information about any of our support services visit: www.beds.ac.uk/studentsupport
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GET MORE THAN A DEGREE It’s a competitive world out there; that’s why we offer a wide range of events and activities to enable you to develop key skills and experiences that will help you to stand out from the crowd and differentiate you from other graduates. Meet like-minded people Clubs and societies are a great way to meet like-minded people, and get involved in a range of fun and exciting activities - and maybe even try something new! At the University of Bedfordshire we have a wide range of faith, academic, cultural and recreational societies for you to get involved in. And if sport is more your thing we have over 40 sports teams competing in the British University and Colleges Sports (BUCS) leagues. Peer Assisted Learning (PAL) PAL sessions are weekly sessions for first-year students, run by second- and third-years. Being a PAL leader enables you to develop many transferable skills including communication, presentation and organisation to name just a few! Become a Course Representative As a Course of Faculty Representative you’ll act as the voice for your fellow students, and help to raise and solve any issues on behalf of your classmates.
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As a Student Representative you’ll receive full training from the Students’ Union. Connections to industry We work with lots of national and international organisations to enable you to take part in masterclasses and industry talks, external competitions and live briefs, developing your industry knowledge and experience, and building your industry network. Enhance your employability We offer a range of employability units which you can study alongside your degree to further enhance your career prospects, and develop transferable skills which you can use in the workplace. Build your confidence with our public speaking unit, or discover the skills needed to become a freelancer. You could also learn a new language, or gain the skills needed to become an entrepreneur, and much more. Gain industry experience Many of our courses provide you with the opportunity to gain industry experience alongside your studies. Law students are able to volunteer with the Law Clinic and Refugee Legal Assistance Project, whilst students within the School of Art and Design can gain experience at Guildford Street Press, to name just a few.
Volunteer your time At the University of Bedfordshire we’re committed to contributing to the development of civic and public life through involving students and staff in volunteering programmes. We offer a range of ways for students to get involved in volunteering, from one-off events to regular and long-term commitments. Take over the airwaves Radio LaB is the University’s very own community radio station, broadcasting throughout Luton and Bedfordshire. You can get involved in presenting and producing your own shows on a subject that interests you. Listen online at: radiolab.beds.ac.uk Get Active If you’re interested in sport, but don’t want to compete, our Get Active programme is for you. For just a small fee you can access a wide range of weekly sessions across our Luton and Bedford campuses including Archery, Boxercise, Tennis, Yoga and Zumba. There’s also one-off taster sessions throughout the year where you can try activities like horse riding and skiing. Our Luton and Bedford campuses also benefit from our Aspire gyms, which offer a range of affordable and flexible membership options. Both gyms feature a selection of cardiovascular equipment and free weights, and Bedford also benefits from a strength and conditioning room. For more information, and to find out what else is available at the University of Bedfordshire, visit: www.beds.ac.uk/morethanadegree
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STUDENTS’ UNION Beds SU is here to help every student at the University of Bedfordshire get the most out of their university experience. All Bedfordshire students are automatic members of Beds SU, which offers a great range of services and support. From representation and advice, to social spaces and societies, Beds SU aims to empower every student to achieve their full potential, as well as provide a great student experience along the way.
Students can get involved in a whole range of events and activities whilst at university, from joining one of the unions many societies, to getting involved in volunteering opportunities. Beds SU has a huge range of faith, academic, cultural and recreational societies aimed at helping you meet like-minded people and life-long friends, whilst enjoying extra-curricular activities. Volunteering is a great way to build valuable skills whilst giving something back to the community. There are plenty of ways you can get involved in volunteering at the SU, from representing your university community to hosting fundraising events.
The Metro Bar and Kitchen in Luton and The Hub in Bedford offer food and drink, alongside a diverse events programme including movie/cinema club, quizzes, club nights, karaoke and a range of society nights throughout the year. There is a wide range of food and drinks on offer throughout the day and into the evening, making it the perfect space to meet up with friends in between lectures and at the end of the day.
Find out more about Beds SU activities and opportunities at: www.bedssu.co.uk/beinvolved
Find out more about our venues and events at: www.bedssu.co.uk/beentertained
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Beds SU is run by its members (the students of the University of Bedfordshire), who are at the heart of the work Beds SU do. The Union ensures that student views and feedback are represented at all levels, whether that is through the academic representative system, speaking to the Executive Officers either by contacting them directly or posing questions at Union Parliament sessions, to offering students the opportunity to elect their representatives via the annual student elections. Beds SU is here to support and listen to all students.
Beds SU provides all students with access to impartial advice and support on all aspects of university life including finance, housing issues, representation, safety and welfare. Student life can be challenging at times and that’s why Beds SU has a friendly, dedicated team at hand to offer individual support when it’s needed.
Find out more about how Beds SU represents its students at: www.bedssu.co.uk/beheard
Find out more about the advice and support Beds SU offers at: www.bedssu.co.uk/besupported
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ENTERTAINMENT With the help of our Students’ Union (Beds SU) we have lots of exciting things going on in and around our campuses to make your experience at Bedfordshire a great one. Beds SU wants you to have the best time whilst at University, and offers a range of events and activities, to suit a wide range of interests to help you to do so. From themed nights in one of our venues, and nights out in the local town, to activities hosted by one of our many clubs and societies, there really is something for everyone. Beds SU venues Beds SU is the proud owner of two multi-functional venues in Luton and Bedford. These venues will play host to a variety of events throughout the year, as well as offering a comfortable, relaxed space to simply take a break and socialise with friends.
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The Metro Bar and Kitchen, Luton campus By day the Metro Bar and Kitchen proudly serves Starbucks coffee along with a range of other beverages, sandwiches, paninis and snacks. It’s a great space for socialising with friends, catching up on some course work or taking a well deserved lunch break with a game of table tennis. By night the venue becomes the place to be with events such as karaoke, quizzes and various themed club nights. Try our delicious range of food, from great ‘Grab and Go’ options to freshly made pizzas served throughout the day. The Hub, Bedford campus During the day The Hub is the place to go to take a break, play a little pool and socialise with your friends. In the evening the venue opens its doors to host a range of events including club nights, quizzes and comedy nights. Freshly made pizzas are also available every evening during the week.
Out on the town Beds SU has got together with a number of local venues and facilities to offer you the best deals on a range of activities and events from trampoline parks and bowling alleys, to club nights in the best venues in the area. Welcome Week During Welcome Week Beds SU aims to help you settle in to university life, by making you aware of what Beds SU, the university, and the local area has to offer. For full details on the activities and events taking place during your first few weeks at the university visit: www.bedssu.co.uk/freshers Societies On top of all the activities and events offered directly by Beds SU, we also have a diverse range of student-led societies that organise a whole host of activities and events. Why not get involved by joining a society, or even setting up one of your own. Find out more at: www.bedssu.co.uk/beinvolved
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We understand the importance of your personal career goals, which is why we will work with you throughout your studies and beyond, to ensure you reach your full potential.
Learning from our research Research informs our teaching and enhances your learning experience, and you will connect with cutting-edge researchers throughout your postgraduate studies and beyond. As well as our Our award-winning Careers and Employability research being highly recognised in the Reseach Service Excellence Framework (REF) 2014, and a number The University’s Careers and Employability of staff being recognised as ‘world-leading’ or Service will unlock your potential and enable you ‘internationally recognised’ in research, we were to manage your future career by providing you with also awarded the prestigious Queen’s Anniversary professional, high-quality information, advice and Prize for Higher and Further Education, 2013, for our guidance including: pioneering research in the area of social work and • Specialist employability advisers social care. You can be confident that you will learn • Access to a wealth of careers information and about the latest developments direct from ‘live’ resources online research - making your knowledge relevant to the • Help with securing internships, part-time jobs and real world. volunteering opportunities • Employment-related events, competitions and Employable programme careers fairs Our unique employable programme will ensure you • Coaching on CV writing, interview skills and get ahead in your career by providing you with a assessment centres vast array of activities to develop your skills and experiences such as: full- or part-time paid work; employer events; CV support; career guidance; mock interviews and more.
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Connect with international professionals We value diversity and real-world experience, which is why we have connections with thousands of companies, both national and international. We welcome a number of international visitors to our campuses annually, to provide training and share their expertise and knowledge with you. Professional accreditations Many of our courses are accredited by professional bodies which gives you a career advantage from day one. Just a few of the professional bodies that accredit our degrees are: Association of Certified Chartered Accountants, British Computer Society, British Council, British Psychological Society, Chartered Institute of Marketing, Chartered Management Institute, General Social Care Council, Institute of Biomedical Science, Joint Negotiating Committee (JNC), National Association of Licensed Paralegals (NALP), National Youth Agency, Association for Nutrition, Register of Exercise Professionals and The Broadcast Journalism Training Council. Many professional bodies offer free or reduced memberships for students so you can begin to build your network and keep up-to-date with industryspecific news. For more information visit: www.beds.ac.uk/careers
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FANTASTIC FACILITIES At the University of Bedfordshire we’re continuously investing and developing social and learning spaces to ensure that we’re providing the best facilities to support you throughout your studies. Luton campus • Our purpose-built, seven-storey library opened in 2016 • Specialist Art and Design building, Alexon House • Campus Centre, housing all student services under one roof • En-suite accommodation, Fitzroy and Wenlock Court offering 852 fully-furnished study bedrooms and studios • Multi-purpose Business Pods and Law Moot Court in our Business School
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• Nursing simulation suites, contemporary skills labs and medical training mannequins • Our on-campus gym, Aspire, offering a range of flexible membership options In 2019 our STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) building opened at our Luton campus featuring: • Modern engineering labs and three specialist research labs • A modern imaging suite which houses confocal and fluorescence microscopes • Dedicated space for histopathology and mammalian cell culture • Robotic equipment including humanoid robots, robotic arms and wheeled robotic platforms
Bedford campus • Purpose-built, three-storey building, Gateway, featuring everything a student could need under one roof • Our Campus Centre is home to a 280-seat theatre, as well as a smaller 80-seat theatre • A Physical Education and Sports Science Centre, used to train athletes in the 2012 Olympics • En-suite accommodation at Polhill Park, offering 517 fully-furnished study bedrooms and studios • Nursing simulation suites, contemporary skills labs and medical training mannequins • Our on-campus gym, Aspire, offering a range of flexible membership options Aylesbury Our Aylesbury campus is equipped for our nursing and midwifery students. Based at Stoke Mandeville Hospital, our students learn in a modern and vibrant environment suited for today’s vocational approach to teaching. Milton Keynes Our Milton Keynes campus houses an array of modern teaching facilities including high-specification teaching rooms with top-quality audio-visual and IT equipment, a special purpose electronics and telecommunications laboratory and a large, general purpose computer lab, giving IT students hands-on experience. For more information about the facilities available at any of our campuses visit: www.beds.ac.uk/about-us/campuses/
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YOUR LIBRARY
Our students have fantastic multi-media study resources at their fingertips in our cutting-edge, well-equipped libraries. Our library resources Our extensive, sector-leading, digital library is available from most devices with internet access. Explore the full range of print and online books, journals, articles, databases, exam papers and dissertations with DISCOVER - the online single search tool that searches most electronic resources and the library catalogue in one go. It saves time by showing what’s available to read online, what’s on the shelves, and how to reserve items from another campus. To help with study needs we offer induction loops, height-adjustable tables, flat-screen monitors, keyboards for visually impaired users and Keyboard Pro software for developing typing skills.
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In 2016 a purpose-built, seven-storey library opened at our Luton campus. The library features dedicated silent areas, breakout spaces and pods to facilitate group work, a cafe, and state-of-the-art IT and AV equipment. The library is not just a repository of books and study resources; it’s also an important partner in research and in teaching, working towards equipping you with the skills and knowledge needed to achieve academically, and to maximise your future employability. That’s why our library service is open when you need it, to support your learning and academic life whilst at Bedfordshire. For more information visit: www.beds.ac.uk/library
Study Hub The Study Hub, based within our library facilities, consists of three teams of specialists who offer a wide range of support and learning activities which will help you to develop your academic skills and improve your assignment writing techniques; leading to better grades and enhanced employability. These sessions are available throughout the year and are completely free and open to all of our students.
Computer Skills Trainers (CST) The CST team can help you with using Microsoft Office, Word, Excel or PowerPoint in your studies. They provide help guides, training workshops, and individual or group support depending on your needs. Professional and Academic Development (PAD) The PAD team are here to help you enhance your writing, maths and study skills. They provide regular drop-in sessions across our campuses so you can easily access the team when you are working on an assignment or following up your assessment feedback.
Academic Liaison Librarians (ALLs) ALLs work with each faculty within the University to ensure that the resources you need for your course are available and easily accessible to you. They can show you, both individually and within small groups, how to search for the resources you need to help For more information about upcoming workshops, you with your research and/or assignments as well drop-in sessions and 1-to-1 appointments visit: as provide advice on topics such as plagiarism. www.beds.ac.uk/library
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FEES AND FINANCE We want to make sure that financing your studies is as simple and afforable as possible. Here at the University of Bedfordshire we offer a range of scholarships to support you.
• Government-backed postgraduate student loan - up to £10,609 a year for taught and research Master’s courses • Research Studentships - awarded to a student to work on a research project at a university UK/EU students: University funding • Research Council Grants - each year they The University of Bedfordshire is proud of its alumni award around 6,000 studentships and is delighted to offer a tuition fee discount for • Employer sponsorship - your employer may those who choose to continue or return to the have a budget for staff development and may University for on-campus Postgraduate level studies. consider funding your course • Educational trusts and charities - there are a We offer a 20% discount on full- and part-time number of trusts that may be able to provide Masters courses to those who were successful in funding for postgraduate study completing an Honours Degree with the University • Part-time employment - many postgraduate of Bedfordshire, DMU’s Bedford campus or the students have to work alongside their studies; our University of Luton. award-winning Careers and Employability Service can help you to find part-time roles, or improve For full details and eligibility criteria please visit our your CV website. • National Careers Service - contact the National Careers Service for information about UK/EU students: Non-university funding funding options in your individual circumstances Postgraduate study is a major investment and requires sound financial planning. There are lots of For more information about funding for UK/EU non-university funding options available. However, it students visit: unibeds.info/WG_Finance is important to remember that non-university funding is not automatically awarded for some postgraduate study in the UK.
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International students Our Vice Chancellor Scholarship, worth £1,000, is available to all new international students. You may also be eligible for a £500 prompt payment discount if you pay your full tuition fee before or at registration. All students need to pay at least 65% of their full fees in order to register. International Bedfordshire alumni could also receive the Alumni Loyalty Scholarship - up to £500 for those who have studied their undergraduate degree with us and wish to progress to postgraduate study, or those who have studied a postgraduate degree with us and progress directly on to a research degree with us. For more information about international student finance visit: unibeds.info/WG_IntFinance
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ACCOMMODATION As a postgraduate student, there are many housing options at our Luton and Bedford campuses where you can make yourself right at home - and the University can provide help and guidance on finding the perfect place. With London on Luton and Bedford’s doorstep, you can benefit from its cosmopolitan social scene but with considerably lower living costs. Luton accommodation The University of Bedfordshire’s Student Village has dedicated buildings for all postgraduate students, as well as those over 25, so you can make the most of your time and focus on your studies. The fully furnished flats and studios include a bed, desk, wardrobe, and en-suite shower pod. Each flat has a spacious kitchen/lounge area to relax in with your flat mates. For those wanting a little more space and privacy, our studio flats are a great option, offering a double bed and private en-suite shower room and kitchenette. Fitzroy and Wenlock Court have fantastic communal lounges, a games room, media room, group study room, a fully equipped gym, and laundry facilities on-site. Our halls of residence are ideally located for student life on-campus, and are just a short walk from Luton town centre.
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Bedford accommodation Students at the Bedford campus have the option of living at Polhill Park, or our more budget conscious Student Village, both of which are located on campus, within easy reach of the town centre and station. Polhill Park offers 517 en-suite study bedrooms grouped in flats with fantastic communal areas, including a gym and on-site laundry facilities. The Student Village has en-suite rooms with private shower rooms and fully equipped shared kitchens. Added benefits • Safety first - we have staff on-site 24 hours, and electronic fob and swipe card entry systems • All inclusive value - your rent in Luton and Bedford includes all utility bills and contents insurance • Stay connected - free Wi-Fi is included in our accommodation • Instant friends - halls are a great way to meet new people • Village Life Programme - meet new friends from week one with events such as BBQs and movie nights
Milton Keynes accommodation If you’re studying at our Milton Keynes campus we recommend that you stay with us at our Bedford campus accommodation for the best student experience. Letting agents in Milton Keynes also offer private rented accommodation options. For information and advice about landlords recommended by the University visit: www.studentpadbeds.co.uk Secure accommodation for healthcare students Healthcare students have access to safe and secure accommodation at our various hospital sites. For more information please visit our website.
Get in touch... For more information about Fitzroy and Wenlock Court at our Luton campus visit: W: www.campuslivingvillages.co.uk/luton T: +44 (0)1582 405000 E: bedfordshire@clvuk.com For more information about Polhill Park at our Bedford campus visit: W: www.unitestudents.com/Bedford/ Polhill-Park T: +44 (0)1234 359332 For more information about the Student Village at our Bedford campus visit: W: www.campuslivingvillages.co.uk/bedford T: +44 (0)1234 793462 E: bedfordshire@clvuk.com
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CAMPUS MAPS: LUTON
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CAMPUS MAPS: BEDFORD
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MILTON KEYNES
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AYLESBURY
For more information about any of our campus, including campus directions, visit: www.beds.ac.uk/directions
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