De Montfort University (DMU) has implemented a block teaching model across nearly its entire curriculum, a strategy that divides learning into seven-week modules. This approach, pioneered by DMU, is gradually being adopted by other institutions. The university states that this system is designed to help students better manage their studies alongside other commitments, such as work or family responsibilities, reflecting changes in the student population.
The initial cohort of students who completed their studies entirely through the block teaching method have now graduated. According to the university, this shift has led to increased student confidence, a stronger sense of belonging, improved workload management, and reduced stress. DMU has also reported an upward trend in student satisfaction scores as measured by the National Student Survey.
Expanding Offerings and Addressing Application Trends
DMU has recently opened a London outpost, offering postgraduate courses in business and data analytics that are delivered two days per week. Students at this new campus can access DMU's Edge programme, a six-week professional development module focused on employability, digital skills, sustainability, and enterprise.
The university is actively working to increase its international student enrollment to compensate for a decrease in domestic applications, which reached a ten-year low for the September 2025 intake. UCAS admissions also saw a 7% year-over-year decline, falling below 5,000 for the first time in the same period.
DMU also aims to expand its 580 degree apprenticeship enrollments, with plans for three new programs in finance, housing, and secondary education teaching. Additionally, a new series of law degrees will be introduced in September 2027, available as standalone LLB or Masters programs or in combination with criminology, criminal justice, and business law.
Financial Support and Accommodation
Financial aid at DMU is directed towards students facing significant need. The university offers 59 scholarships, including the Ian and Clare Mattioli Scholarship, the Marjorie Blouet Scholarship, and the Stoneygate Scholarships, which can provide up to £3,000 or £4,000 per year for eligible students demonstrating disadvantage and low household income.
Care leavers and estranged students receive a £1,000 annual bursary. The Stephen Lawrence Professional scholarships provide half-price tuition fees and a £3,500 cash bursary per year for disadvantaged students pursuing specific fields such as architecture, criminology, journalism, and law. The Opportunities Fund offers grants ranging from £100 to £500 to address immediate financial barriers, as part of a broader hardship support package that disbursed £930,000 in 2024-25.
DMU provides approximately 90 annual academic awards, typically valued between £100 and £500. University-owned accommodation has limited capacity with 422 places. The cost of the cheapest rooms remains frozen for the third consecutive year at £3,909 for a 41-week contract. Private accommodation providers offer additional options, with the most expensive studios costing £7,740 for a 43-week let.
Admissions and Student Support Initiatives
DMU's contextual offer scheme allows eligible applicants to receive an offer equivalent to BCD or CCC at A-level, where standard entry requirements range from 104-128 points (BCC to ABB). Eligibility for these offers can be based on factors such as postcode progression rates, receipt of free school meals, care experience, or having a parent in the Armed Forces. A third of admissions last year benefited from this scheme.
The university has been recognized for its efforts in widening participation and improving outcomes for under-represented students, becoming the first institution to receive a Silver Race Equality Charter for its work in removing barriers and enhancing degree outcomes for Black, Asian, and minority ethnic students.
DMU's mental health team received accolades at the University Mental Health Advisers Network awards. The Healthy DMU Hub offers students support through one-to-one sessions with wellbeing professionals, guidance on managing mental health, and advice on academic adjustments. The university's Autism Team was also shortlisted for an award for outstanding student support.
Support for autistic students includes weekly social groups, drop-in sessions, transition support, and an on-campus therapy dog. All DMU staff undergo mandatory training in student wellbeing and safeguarding, with specialized courses for those in student-facing roles.