Top 10 Best Universities in Oadby and Wigston

Higher Education Within Reach

Although Oadby and Wigston is a residential borough rather than a university town, it has a close relationship with higher education. The University of Leicester's Oadby Student Village houses thousands of students, and the university's Botanic Garden sits in Oadby itself. Beyond Leicester, the East and West Midlands host a remarkable concentration of universities, many within an hour's travel. This means local students can choose to live at home and commute, or move away while staying relatively close to family.

Here are ten universities that are particularly popular with students from the borough.

The Top 10 Universities

1. University of Leicester

The University of Leicester is a research-intensive institution known for genetics, where DNA fingerprinting was discovered, as well as space research, medicine, law, and archaeology. Its presence in Oadby through student accommodation and the Botanic Garden makes it the most closely connected university to the borough.

2. De Montfort University

De Montfort University, located in Leicester city centre, is known for creative industries, fashion, design, pharmacy, and cyber security. Its modern campus and strong employability focus attract students from across the world.

3. Loughborough University

Loughborough consistently ranks among the UK's best for student experience and is world-renowned for sport-related subjects. It also excels in engineering, design, and business, all on a large single-site campus.

4. University of Nottingham

A member of the Russell Group, the University of Nottingham is famous for its beautiful University Park campus and strong research in medicine, engineering, and the sciences.

5. Nottingham Trent University

Nottingham Trent University is known for its practical, industry-focused courses and placement opportunities. It is popular for business, art and design, law, and architecture.

6. University of Warwick

Located near Coventry, Warwick is one of the UK's leading universities, particularly strong in economics, mathematics, business, and computer science. Its reputation makes it a top choice for high-achieving students.

7. Coventry University

Coventry University is well known for automotive engineering, design, and health courses, along with a strong emphasis on employability and global opportunities.

8. University of Northampton

The University of Northampton is based at its Waterside Campus and focuses on social impact, education, nursing, and creative subjects. Its supportive environment appeals to many first-generation university students.

9. University of Derby

The University of Derby offers practical, career-focused programmes in areas such as engineering, health, and business, and is recognised for teaching quality and student support.

10. The Open University

For those who want to study flexibly while working or caring for family, the Open University offers distance-learning degrees across a huge range of subjects. It allows Oadby and Wigston residents to earn a degree without relocating or attending fixed timetables.

Living at Home vs Moving Away

Living at home while studying in Leicester can significantly reduce costs, as rent is often the largest expense for students. Frequent buses link Oadby and Wigston with both the University of Leicester and De Montfort University. However, moving away offers independence and new experiences. Many local students compromise by choosing a Midlands university, close enough to visit home easily while enjoying campus life.

How to Choose the Right University

Consider course content, teaching style, assessment methods, and graduate outcomes rather than relying solely on league tables. Look into placement years, study abroad options, and support services. Visiting open days, speaking to current students, and exploring the local area all help build a fuller picture.

Finance is important too. Understand tuition fee loans, maintenance support, and any bursaries or scholarships offered by individual universities, as these can vary significantly.

Trends in Higher Education

Universities are expanding degree apprenticeships, which combine paid work with study and leave graduates without tuition debt. There is growing emphasis on digital skills, sustainability, and interdisciplinary research. Hybrid learning has also become more mainstream, giving students greater flexibility in how they engage with lectures and resources.

Studying as a Mature Student

Higher education is not only for school leavers. Many residents of Oadby and Wigston return to study later in life to change career, gain professional qualifications, or pursue a lifelong interest. Access to Higher Education diplomas, offered by local colleges, prepare adults without traditional qualifications for degree study in subjects like nursing, social work, and science. Part-time and evening options, flexible online modules, and employer-sponsored courses make it possible to study while working. Universities in the Midlands provide dedicated support for mature students, including childcare advice, study skills workshops, and financial guidance, helping adult learners balance their studies with family and work commitments.

Postgraduate study is also widely available locally, with taught masters, research degrees, and professional doctorates helping residents deepen specialist knowledge and advance in fields such as healthcare, education, and engineering.

Conclusion

Oadby and Wigston residents have access to an exceptional range of universities, from the University of Leicester on their doorstep to world-class institutions like Warwick, Nottingham, and Loughborough. Whether studying locally, moving to a nearby city, or learning flexibly online, there is a path to suit every ambition.