Worcester

Worcester is one of the most beautiful of the colleges combining academic excellence with a friendly and inclusive atmosphere. Although close to the city centre, it is set in 26 acres of gardens and wooded grounds, which include a lake and on-site sports fields. It is a happy blend of ancient and modern, and Worcester’s buildings range from medieval cottages to self-catering accommodation completed in the 21st century. Alongside their studies, undergraduates enjoy a wide range of extra-curricular activities including music, drama and sport, which makes Worcester a diverse and vibrant community in which to work, and to relax from work.

The college entrance is at the junction of Beaumont Street, Walton Street and Worcester Street, close to the city centre and coach station, and a ten minute walk from the train station.

The college aims to offer accommodation to all undergraduates for the duration of their degree. All rooms are on-site or no more than 300 metres from the perimeter. Some are in historic buildings, but many have been recently built or refurbished, and over two-thirds are en-suite with access to good kitchen facilities. All rooms have telephone and internet connections, and a small refrigerator. There are also a number of shared student houses.

Worcester has a well-deserved reputation for excellent food at low prices, and many students choose to eat in the college’s dining hall. Self-service breakfast, lunch and dinner are available each day. A served formal hall option is also available on several evenings each week. Meals are paid for as taken.

The main undergraduate library has approximately 65,000 volumes and is well-funded for purchasing new books. There is a separate college Law Library and a magnificent Old Library, which houses collections of European importance. Individual work spaces are provided in all three libraries, two of which are open 24 hours per day. A computer room with high-specification PCs is set aside for undergraduate use and is also open 24 hours per day. Within the college grounds are sports fields, tennis courts and a multi-gym. The college also maintains a boathouse on the River Thames.

Worcester is committed to enabling students with disabilities to participate as fully as possible in student life and applicants are advised to contact the Tutor for Admissions with details of any special needs.

Worcester students enjoy the many opportunities for extra-curricular activities that are offered by the college. There are teams of various standards in a wide range of sports, enabling students with differing abilities to take part, if they wish. Worcester has strong musical traditions, and the music society organises many activities throughout the year. Music practice facilities are available on-site. Students may audition for instrumental awards, and Organ and Choral Scholarships are also offered. An active dramatic society puts on regular productions, including in the gardens. Worcester students are also active in a variety of University clubs and societies.