The library and computer facilities are good.
There's always at least a reference copy
of all the textbooks required and I never
have a problem finding a PC to use.

Preparing to study at Bradford

We are so pleased that you have chosen to study at Bradford. We want your move to Higher Education to go as smoothly as possible. Our Thinking of studying at Bradford page gives you an overview of the services we offer. Don't forget to check out our Arriving at Bradford page when you arrive on campus. In the meantime, here are a few extra tips and resources to help you prepare for starting University.

IT provision
The library
Developing your skills
Developing your career
Health and well-being
Campus maps

IT provision

IT account - As part of the registration process you are allocated a computer username. You need to think of a password to use with this; our guidelines will help you. Your computer username and password give you access to many of the University's Web based systems, eg your email account, and enable you to login to PCs in our public cluster rooms.
Email - The University will send correspondence to your University email account; it is important that you check this regularly. We suggest you read ourWebmail (pdf) guide to find out how to get the most from our email system.
ResNet/RoamNet - Use the links that follow to check whether your hall has ResNet, where you can connect to RoamNet, and what you need to connect to them:
PC clusters - Use the links that follow to check what equipment is in our PC clusters, where they are and how to check their availability:
- PC clusters
- Computer availability - You can also check this via our www.braduni.mobi service (normal data charges apply - check with your supplier).
IT skills - Use the IT skills materials on Develop Me! to get an overview of the skills you will need and guidance on how to develop them.
PC purchases and software - Our Software Availability and Support Levels page gives full details of the software used on campus and the level of support you can expect for each. A number of educational software suppliers offer student discounts and the University has a liecence to distribute antivirus software. This blog might be helpful if you are planning on purchasing a laptop.

The Library

Library catalogue - You will need to use the Library catalogue to research study topics. Our library catalogue guides show you how to use the catalogue.
Searching skills - You may use a search engine such as Google already; however, your tutors will expect you to judge the reliability of the information. To save you time, there are a number of information gateways, usually organised by subject discipline, where the information is peer reviewed; this means that others have judged the information as relevant and reliable. Your subject librarian will give you guidance on this; however, you can start refining your searching by using the library materials on Develop Me!

Developing your skills

Develop Me! is the gateway to most of our skills development activities. It also provides you with tools to identify your levels of confidence in different academic skills areas and to tell us how we can help you get the most from your time at University. Get a head start by following our guidelines for getting the most from Develop Me!

Develop Me!

You can also chat and get to know other students through the Develop Me! social space. You can view what's there without signing up; however, you need to sign up if you want to join in.

Developing your career

Career Development Services can help you to earn while you learn or to focus on more longer term career options.

How you can 'earn while you learn'
Our JobShop specialises in finding you part-time work and vacation work which can be combined with your studies.
About the careers taken by Bradford graduates
Details of the jobs and further study options taken by our graduates, and of the University's excellent employment record.
Specific information relating to international students
Find out about working in the UK during and after your studies if you are an international student.

Health and well-being

Counselling Service

Starting University is a major step in your life journey. It is likely to trigger a variety of emotions, including some that you may never have encountered before. Here are links to help you recognise and cope with some of those feelings, but talking often helps, so do come and see us.:

self-help leaflets;
links to information on a range of topics;
drop-in sessions;
relaxation techniques.

Disability Service

The Disability Service has a great reputation for taking a holistic approach to the needs of every student we work with - providing the equipment and advice to help you get the most out of your time at University.

Our Frequently Asked Questions page will hopefully answer questions you may have. Please get in touch if you need to know more.

Health & Safety

We want to do all we can to help you work safely and to keep your work secure. Our regulations and policies are as much about protecting you as they are about ensuring that your use of our facilities meets internal, external and legislative requirements. Use the links that follow to find out what you should and should not do, our emergency procedures and what your personal responsibilities are in using computer equipment safely:

Campus maps

Use our campus maps to familiarise yourself with the locations of our facilities; however, when you get on to campus you can always access our braduni.mobi service for directions on getting from building to building.

Learner Support Services