Your ultimate guide to experiencing DMU's vibrant Leicester campus, exploring creative courses, and making the most of your prospective student event.
Choosing where to study for your undergraduate or postgraduate degree is one of the most significant decisions you will ever make. For students setting their sights on De Montfort University (DMU) in Leicester, attending a De Montfort University open day is an irreplaceable step in the application journey. Located in the heart of a vibrant, multicultural city, DMU is renowned for its industry-aligned courses, state-of-the-art facilities, and a strong commitment to student empowerment and employability.
A well-planned campus visit gives you far more than just a glimpse inside lecture halls. It allows you to gauge the atmosphere of the campus, test out the student accommodation, chat directly with academic staff, and experience the unique community spirit that defines the institution. Whether you are eyeing up creative arts in the Vijay Patel Building, computing in our advanced labs, or business management, a structured approach ensures you leave with all your questions answered.
While prospectuses and website brochures are full of useful information, they cannot replicate the tangible energy of a live prospective student event. Walking around the Leicester campus helps you visualize your day-to-day life as a DMU student. You can time how long it takes to walk from the library to your potential halls of residence, find the best coffee spots on campus, and experience the supportive environment firsthand.
"Visiting DMU completely changed my perspective. I was torn between two universities, but the passion of the lecturers during my subject talk and the incredible vibe of the Leicester campus made my choice crystal clear." - Jordan, BA Graphic Design
Furthermore, these events give parents and guardians peace of mind. They can look into student support services, financial guidance, and campus security, ensuring everyone in your support network feels confident about your university choice.
Securing your spot early is critical because popular course talks and campus tours fill up fast. DMU typically hosts several on-campus open days throughout the autumn and summer terms, alongside dedicated applicant visit days once you receive an offer. To make the most of your journey:
If you cannot make it to an in-person event due to geographic or personal constraints, don't worry. DMU offers an immersive virtual tour experience online, allowing prospective students to explore 360-degree views of accommodation, teaching spaces, and social hubs from anywhere in the world.
A typical De Montfort University open day is structured to give you a comprehensive overview of academic life and student support. When you arrive at the registration hub, you will receive a welcome pack containing a campus map, schedule of talks, and promotional goodies.
Your itinerary will likely feature several core elements designed to inform and inspire:
To get past the marketing material and understand the true student experience, you need to ask targeted questions. Here is a handy guide on what to ask academic staff, current students, and support teams:
As part of your campus visit, it is vital to research the local cost of living. Compared to London and other major UK cities, Leicester is famously affordable, making it an attractive destination for students managing a budget. Below is an estimated breakdown of weekly student expenses in Leicester:
| Expense Category | Average Weekly Cost | Monthly Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| University Accommodation (Catered/Self-Catered) | £120 - £180 | £480 - £720 |
| Groceries and Household Supplies | £35 - £50 | £140 - £200 |
| Transport (Walking/Cycling is free, local bus) | £10 - £20 | £40 - £80 |
| Socializing and Leisure | £25 - £45 | £100 - £180 |
During the open day, make sure to visit the accommodation village to compare room sizes, en-suite facilities, and kitchen setups so you can choose living arrangements that fit your budget.
After attending your De Montfort University open day, take some time to review your notes, brochures, and photos. Compare how you felt walking around DMU with other institutions you have visited. Trust your instincts—if you can picture yourself studying in the labs, hanging out in the student union, and thriving in Leicester, you have likely found your university home. Complete your UCAS application with confidence, knowing you have done the ground research to make an informed choice for your future.