What types of courses and study levels does ARU offer?

Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) offers courses across undergraduate, postgraduate taught, postgraduate research, college and apprenticeship, short course and CPD, degree apprenticeship, and distance learning routes, with study based in Cambridge, Chelmsford, Peterborough or Writtle. If you are deciding where to start, the practical split is by study level and by whether you want to study on campus, through a college or apprenticeship route, or at a distance.

Undergraduate courses

ARU lists undergraduate study as a main entry point, alongside a Clearing 2026 section and information on how to apply for undergraduate courses. This is the route to check if you are looking for a first degree or are applying through Clearing.

The site also links undergraduate study to open days, teaching excellence, schools and colleges, and Writtle College, so applicants can move from the course type to the relevant campus or college context.

Postgraduate study

ARU separates postgraduate study into two clear paths:

• Postgraduate taught courses, with a dedicated “How to apply – postgraduate taught” page.
• Postgraduate research, with its own section covering types of degrees offered, how to apply, funding opportunities and research degree enquiries.

If you want a taught master’s or similar qualification, start with postgraduate taught. If you are looking for a research degree, start with postgraduate research.

College courses and apprenticeships

ARU lists college courses and apprenticeships as a study option, and repeats this under Writtle College. This is the relevant route if you are considering a college-level course or an apprenticeship rather than a standard undergraduate or postgraduate degree.

The site also lists degree apprenticeships separately, including degree apprenticeships for employers. That distinction matters: college courses and apprenticeships are one entry point, while degree apprenticeships are presented as their own category.

Short courses and CPD

ARU offers short courses and CPD (continuing professional development). This route is for you if you want a shorter course or professional development rather than a full degree or research programme.

The same category appears under the Business and employers section as “Short courses and CPD,” which indicates it serves both individual learners and employers developing their people.

Distance learning

ARU lists distance learning at ARU as a study option. Choose this route if you are looking for a course you can take without committing to the same on-campus pattern as the Cambridge, Chelmsford, Peterborough or Writtle locations.

Where ARU study takes place

ARU’s page evidence names Cambridge, Chelmsford and Peterborough in the heading, and the source description also includes Writtle. Writtle College is listed with college courses and apprenticeships. If location matters to you, use the campus and Writtle College links alongside the study-level pages rather than choosing a course type in isolation.

How to choose your starting point

Once you know the level and mode you want, the next step is to check the specific course page, entry requirements and how to apply for that route. ARU provides separate application guidance for undergraduate and postgraduate taught courses, and separate entry requirements and deadlines information for international students.