Bournemouth University (BU), located in the coastal city of Bournemouth, England, United Kingdom, is a dynamic public university renowned for its emphasis on employability and practical skills. Established in 1992 following the Further and Higher Education Act, BU has grown from its roots as Bournemouth Polytechnic into a vibrant institution with over 18,000 students across multiple campuses in Bournemouth and Poole. The university's motto, 'Discere Mutare Vita' (To Learn to Change Life), reflects its commitment to transformative education and research that impacts real-world challenges.
Jobs at Bournemouth University span academic, research, administrative, and professional support roles, attracting talent passionate about higher education in fields like media production, health sciences, business management, and forensic science. BU's strategic focus on sectors aligned with regional strengths, such as the creative industries hub in Dorset, makes it an appealing employer for those seeking meaningful careers in academia. With a student-to-staff ratio that supports collaborative environments, employees contribute to innovative teaching and cutting-edge research funded by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) and industry partners.
The university's location in England offers a blend of urban vibrancy and seaside tranquility, enhancing campus life. BU consistently ranks high in graduate employability, with 95% of graduates in work or further study six months after graduation (Graduate Outcomes Survey 2020/21), underscoring the value of its job opportunities.
Bournemouth University's journey began in 1970 as Bournemouth College of Technology, evolving through mergers and gaining polytechnic status in 1976. The pivotal moment came in 1992 when it received full university status, joining the wave of post-1992 universities focused on applied learning. Key milestones include the 2012 merger with Poole's Arts University College, expanding its creative portfolio, and investments in facilities like the £55 million Executive Business Centre opened in 2018.
Throughout its history, BU has prioritized industry links, pioneering the world's first BSc in Forensic Science in 1992 and establishing the National Centre for Computer Animation. This legacy influences jobs at the university, where roles often involve partnerships with BBC, IBM, and local tech firms, providing employees opportunities to shape future graduates.
BU organizes its offerings into five faculties: Science & Technology, Health & Social Sciences, Media & Communication, Management, and Arts, Design & Media. Popular programs include BSc in Media Production, MSc in Cyber Security, and MBA from the Business School. These departments drive demand for specialized faculty positions, with jobs emphasizing interdisciplinary work.
For instance, the Faculty of Media & Communication, home to the Centre for Excellence in Media Practice, seeks experts in journalism and animation. Jobs here involve delivering modules that integrate practical placements, reflecting BU's Fuse (future-focused) strategy.
Jobs at Bournemouth University include faculty positions like lecturers and professors, research roles such as postdocs and assistants, and support staff in administration and HR. Lecturer jobs typically involve teaching undergraduates, supervising dissertations, and contributing to curriculum development. Professor roles lead departments and secure funding.
Research jobs focus on funded projects, e.g., in health simulation or AI ethics. Administrative positions support student services and operations. For a full breakdown, explore university job types. Current openings often appear on BU's careers site, with contract and permanent options.
For academic jobs at Bournemouth University, a PhD in the relevant field is standard for lecturers and above. Teaching qualifications like Postgraduate Certificate in Higher Education (PGCHE) or Fellowship of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA) are often required. Entry-level research assistant jobs may accept a Master's with strong undergraduate performance.
Senior roles demand Professorial status or equivalent, proven by REF submissions. BU values qualifications aligned with its vocational focus, such as professional certifications in nursing for health roles or chartered status for business academics.
BU's research pillars include societal challenges like sustainable futures and digital futures. Expertise in computer animation, public health, and tourism management is prized. Jobs require skills in quantitative methods, qualitative analysis, and interdisciplinary approaches. For example, the Cyber Security Research Centre seeks specialists in machine learning for threat detection.
Applicants should demonstrate impact through publications in journals like those indexed in Scopus, where BU has over 50,000 citations.
BU prefers candidates with 3+ years teaching experience, peer-reviewed publications (e.g., 10+ papers), and grant success (e.g., UKRI awards). Industry experience, like in media production, enhances applications for practice-based roles. International collaboration and PhD supervision records are advantageous for senior positions.
Essential skills for BU jobs: advanced research design, innovative pedagogy (e.g., blended learning), stakeholder engagement, and data analysis tools like SPSS or NVivo. Competencies include leadership, ethical research practice, and digital proficiency. Soft skills: resilience, cultural sensitivity, and communication for diverse student cohorts.
To apply for jobs at Bournemouth University, visit the official BU jobs portal, create an account, and submit a tailored CV, cover letter, and supporting statement addressing essential/desirable criteria. Shortlisting uses person specifications; interviews include presentations and panels.
Tips: Use STAR method for examples (Situation, Task, Action, Result). Highlight BU alignment, e.g., employability focus. Network via LinkedIn or conferences. Prepare for values-based questions on EDI. Customize with keywords from the job description. Deadlines are strict; follow up politely. For CV advice, see our free resume template and free cover letter template.
Bournemouth University champions diversity through its Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Strategy 2023-2028, targeting underrepresented groups in STEM via Athena SWAN Silver awards (Science & Technology, Health faculties). Race Equality Charter bronze status and Disability Confident Leader accreditation support inclusive hiring. Initiatives include mentoring for BAME staff, gender pay transparency (7.4% gap reported 2023), and accessible recruitment. BU's Stonewall Diversity Champion status fosters LGBTQ+ inclusion, with active networks like Women in Research.
BU promotes work-life balance with flexible hours, hybrid working post-COVID, 30-35 days annual leave, and occupational health support. The 37-hour standard week includes wellness days. Campus life thrives on Bournemouth's seven-mile beach, with staff perks like gym access, cycle schemes, and childcare vouchers. Social hubs like the Students' Union and Lantern staff awards build community. Proximity to London (2 hours by train) aids networking, while the Talbot Campus' modern libraries and cafes enhance daily experience. Employee assistance programs address mental health, contributing to high retention.
Jobs at Bournemouth University offer rewarding paths in a supportive, innovative environment. Whether pursuing higher ed jobs as faculty or researcher, BU provides growth opportunities. Leverage higher ed career advice and browse university jobs for openings. Institutions like BU seek top talent—post a job if recruiting. Explore faculty jobs, research jobs, or lecturer jobs aligned with your expertise.
