Expert teaching

“At the University of Derby, we have always taken great pride in our approach to teaching and learning.

What we teach and the way we teach it is designed to ensure all our students benefit from academic challenge, outstanding facilities and relevant work experience opportunities which ensure upon graduating they are best placed to realise their goals and aspirations.

We are ambitious. Not only in terms of what we want to achieve as a University, but what we want our graduates of the future to achieve be it locally, nationally or globally.

To this end, our pursuit of excellence in student experience, with academic rigour at its heart, will never cease. Wherever the bar is set, our aim will be to take it higher.” 

Professor Kathryn Mitchell, Vice-Chancellor

High quality

You can be confident in the high quality of our teaching. We deliver consistently outstanding teaching, learning and outcomes for our students.

How you will study

A mixture of structured sessions and independent study will ensure you build knowledge and confidence as you progress. Structured sessions could include:

Lectures - usually in a large group, these will develop your subject knowledge. Lectures should spark debate, posing big questions for you to think about. You'll take notes to support your independent learning and discuss your ideas with others.

Seminars - in a smaller group, you can explore your lecture topic in more detail. You'll undertake specific activities to help you develop your subject knowledge and understanding.

Tutorials - in smaller groups or often one to one, these are an opportunity to discuss your progress with your tutor and ask any questions you may have about your studies. You'll work with your tutor to set and review your goals.

Guest lectures - using our great industry connections, you'll have opportunities to attend lectures given by visiting speakers. These will give you a different perspective on your studies and career plans.

Personal academic tutor

To help you get the best out of your time at Derby, you’ll be assigned a personal academic tutor who is there to support, stretch and challenge you. They will guide you throughout your time with us and will meet with you regularly to discuss your progress and ensure you’re on track to achieve your goals.

How we assess you

Assessment methods vary between courses and may include exams, reports, essays and presentations. You may also be required to produce pieces of work specific to your subject. Assessments could include video or media-based assignments, placements in industry or live briefs.

See individual course pages for more information on the assessment methods for your course.

Study skills

We'll help you develop all the digital and study skills you'll need to support your learning. The Library offers a range of services, including workshops and drop-ins, as well as a wealth of online resources on topics such as planning your work, academic writing and referencing.

Our research expertise

Our lecturers don’t just teach – many are also carrying out research, making breakthrough discoveries and developing new theories about our world. This research will feed into your studies, putting you at the forefront of latest thinking, with opportunities in some cases for you to get involved directly. 

Sharing our expertise

Our academic staff regularly share their thoughts and ideas beyond the classroom via the University of Derby blog. Here, Jon Burton explores technological advances in audio and lighting, Dr Mark Faghy investigates modern training methods and Dr Fiona Holland looks at the positive benefits of change.