University of Hertfordshire vs Middlesex University: Which is Better? Complete Comparison Guide for Students (2025)
Compare University of Hertfordshire and Middlesex University for costs, rankings, student life, and employability. Complete guide for 2025 applicants.
🎓 Introduction
Located just outside London, University of Hertfordshire and Middlesex University are popular choices for students seeking proximity to the capital without high London costs. Both universities offer diverse programs and strong industry connections, but which is the better choice in 2025?
This comprehensive guide compares both universities across key factors including costs, rankings, student experience, and career outcomes to help you make an informed decision.
🏫 University Backgrounds
University of Hertfordshire
Focus: Career-focused education with strong emphasis on employability
Strengths: Creative industries, business, engineering, and technology
Campus: Modern campus in Hatfield with state-of-the-art facilities
Industry Links: Strong partnerships with major employers like BBC, Airbus, and Warner Bros
Middlesex University
Focus: Diverse, inclusive education with global perspective
Strengths: Nursing, business, social sciences, and healthcare
Campus: Main campus in Hendon, closer to central London
Industry Links: Strong NHS connections and healthcare partnerships
📊 Rankings & Reputation
University of Hertfordshire
Employability: Consistently ranks in top 25% for graduate employment
Industry Recognition: Strong reputation in creative industries and engineering
Research: Growing research profile with focus on applied research
Student Satisfaction: High ratings for teaching quality and facilities
Middlesex University
Student Satisfaction: High student satisfaction scores, particularly in nursing
Diversity: Recognized for inclusive education and international outlook
Healthcare Excellence: Strong reputation in nursing and teaching programs
Global Reach: International campuses and partnerships worldwide
💷 Tuition Fees & Living Costs
Cost Factor
University of Hertfordshire
Middlesex University
Annual Tuition Fees
£16,500
£17,000
Accommodation (per month)
£500-£650
£650-£800
Living Expenses (per month)
£800-£1,000
£900-£1,200
Total Annual Cost
£26,100-£36,300
£28,800-£41,400
💡 Hertfordshire generally offers more affordable living costs due to its slightly more suburban location, while Middlesex's proximity to London results in higher accommodation and living expenses.
🎉 Student Life
University of Hertfordshire
Campus Experience: Vibrant campus-based community with modern facilities
Student Union: Active student union with numerous societies and sports clubs
Location Benefits: Easy access to London while maintaining lower costs
Facilities: State-of-the-art learning resources and recreational facilities
Middlesex University
Urban Experience: More urban setting with direct London connections
Diversity: Highly diverse student body with international community
London Access: Better transport links to central London attractions
Cultural Opportunities: Greater access to London's cultural and professional scene
💼 Career Opportunities & Graduate Outcomes
University of Hertfordshire
Employability Rate: 93% of graduates in work or further study within 15 months
Industry Connections: Graduates work at BBC, Airbus, Warner Bros, and major tech companies
Creative Industries: Particularly strong outcomes in media, design, and creative sectors
Engineering & Tech: Excellent placement rates in engineering and technology roles
Middlesex University
Employability Rate: 91% of graduates in work or further study within 15 months
Healthcare Excellence: Outstanding outcomes in nursing and healthcare careers
NHS Connections: Strong pipeline into NHS and healthcare sector jobs
Social Impact: Many graduates work in education, social services, and public sector
✅ Pros & Cons
University of Hertfordshire
Pros:
More affordable living costs
Strong creative industry connections
Modern campus facilities
High employability rates
Excellent industry partnerships
Cons:
Slightly less central location
Fewer direct London transport options
Less diverse international community
Middlesex University
Pros:
Closer to London with better transport links
Excellent for healthcare and nursing careers
Highly diverse student community
Strong international outlook
Better access to London opportunities
Cons:
Higher living and accommodation costs
More competitive local job market
Less campus-focused community feel
🏁 Conclusion
Choose University of Hertfordshire if you prioritize affordability, creative industries, modern campus facilities, and strong industry partnerships. It's ideal for students interested in media, engineering, business, or technology careers who want a campus-based experience at lower costs.
Choose Middlesex University if you prefer closer London access, healthcare/nursing programs, diverse international community, and don't mind higher costs. It's perfect for students pursuing healthcare careers or those who want maximum access to London's opportunities.
Both universities offer excellent education and career prospects. Your choice should depend on your budget, preferred location, career goals, and whether you value a campus-based or urban university experience.
❓ FAQs — Quick Answers
Which is cheaper, Hertfordshire or Middlesex?
👉 Hertfordshire is generally cheaper for living costs, with accommodation ranging £500-£650/month compared to Middlesex's £650-£800/month.
Which has stronger creative courses?
👉 University of Hertfordshire has stronger creative industry connections and programs, with graduates working at BBC, Warner Bros, and other major creative companies.
Which is better for healthcare careers?
👉 Middlesex University has a stronger reputation in nursing and healthcare programs, with excellent NHS connections and clinical placements.
Which university has better employability rates?
👉 Hertfordshire has a slightly higher employability rate at 93% compared to Middlesex's 91%, with strong industry links in creative and engineering sectors.
Which has better transport links to London?
👉 Middlesex University has better direct transport links to central London, while Hertfordshire requires slightly longer travel times but still offers good connections.