Richmond American University London

Richmond American University London

United Kingdom

Student Satisfaction

86%

Graduates Employability

93%

Int. Student Percentage

40%

Int. Fee Range

£15,000 to £32,150/pa

Overview

Richmond American University London also known as RAUL in short, offers a unique education service for international students in their study campus situated in the western part of  London City.

Giving students the chance to achieve dual national degrees from the US and the UK. RAUL’s main city campus location is relatively close to London's cultural hub and business blocks. The university's diverse and welcoming community ensures international students feel supported, with dedicated services assisting with everything from visas to settling into London life.

Studying at RAUL means experiencing the best of both US and UK education systems in one of the world's most dynamic cities.

Extended Overview

Richmond, The American University in London, is well-known for its adaptable and comprehensive Liberal Arts program. The University of London has campuses in Richmond and Kensington, two of London's most prestigious neighbourhoods, and offers on-campus housing.

While you study from a liberal arts perspective, you'll look at the similarities and contrasts between cultures and develop an intercultural lens through which to view the world. It's a fun and exciting challenge.

It inspires you to think for yourself. We offer a well-rounded education that sets our students up for success in a variety of fields, and the fact that our bachelor's and master's programmes are jointly accredited by the United Kingdom and the United States means that they are recognised around the world.

There are master's degrees in International Relations, Luxury Brand Management, Art History, Advertising & Public Relations, and a Master of Business Administration (MBA), as well as bachelor's degrees in Business, Communications, the Arts, and the Social Sciences with study abroad and integrated internships.

Richmond values internationalism and individual attention by providing numerous scholarship opportunities, a diverse student body from over one hundred different countries, and small class sizes.

Mission Statement

Richmond American University London's mission statement is: "To educate and inform future generations by providing them with the knowledge and support to think critically, the freedom to challenge assumptions and the skills to work with others."

It means that the university aims to equip students with critical thinking skills, the freedom to challenge existing ideas, and the ability to work effectively with others. The university focuses on nurturing an environment where students can grow academically and personally, focusing on responsibility and intellectual curiosity

"Unity in Diversity," is the motto of Richmond American University London. It signifies the institution's dedication to creating a diversely multicultured academic environment by bringing together students from different backgrounds to learn and grow together.

It means celebrating differences and building a strong, supportive community where everyone feels welcome and respected. By embracing and celebrating differences, the university achieves a dynamic atmosphere that shapes the students to thrive in a globalized network, promoting mutual respect, understanding, and collaboration.

History

Richmond American University first started its journey as a college known as Richmond College in 1972. Back then, the institution was established by Cyril Taylor, former chairman of the American Institute for Foreign Study (AIFS).

The teaching started at the site of the former Richmond Theological College, which was part of the University of London during the early development days of RAUL.

Following years of providing college studies, AIFS purchased 10 acres of space from the University of London authority and established American Liberal Arts College.

A second campus of Richmond College was opened in 1978 at St Albans Grove and Ansdell Street in Kensington.

The college mainly provided an abroad programme to US students, but soon gained a license to award certificates for US undergraduate degrees from the Washington DC Board of Education and formal accreditation from the Middle States Association of Schools and Colleges (now the Middle States Commission on Higher Education).

In 1988,  another Kensington Campus was opened on Young Street. Diana, Princess of Wales was present during the opening ceremony of that campus. AIFS declared the institution as a non-profit organisation in 1995.

Richmond introduced its first post graduate degree of  Masters of Business Administration (MBA) in the end of 90s. From then onwards until 2018, Richmond University could only provide British Degrees validated by Open University.

From 2018 onwards, the university gained Taught Degree Awarding Powers in the UK giving it the ability to provide two degree certificates from two separate nations, the USA and the UK.

The university got rebranded as Richmond American University London in 2019 and moved into a new campus premises in Chiswick Park Area, West London in 2021.

Since then  RAU's history is marked by its commitment to providing a liberal arts education with an American perspective in the heart of the UK, better reflecting its international focus and dual degree mode.

Accreditation

  1. Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education
  2. Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA)
  3. United States Department of Education

Campus Facilities

RAUL has all the necessary facilities and features needed to run a quality campus life, maintaining a standard on par with other higher education providers. Here are some noticeable campus facilities:

Modern campus building:

Located just beside Chiswick Park, West London with all the essential features such as elevators to move across multiple floors, spacious hallways, accessible washrooms, a cafeteria and several lecture theatres. The campus is equipped with high-tech security devices for secure access by students and CCTV operating 24/7 for surveillance.

Featureful classroom:

Equipped with all sorts of modern electronics such as automatic retracting projector screens, microphones, speakers, digital pointers and security cameras.

High-tech computer labs:

There are two computer labs, one specifically for Apple users (consisting of Macs, iPads and devices associated with iOS) and the other lab is based on powerful Windows and Linux devices (such as Windows operating computers, tablets, laptops and other devices).

Spacious library:

There is a big library inside the campus building extending two floors. Offering a wide range of resourceful materials, through the collection of digital/ online materials, physical books, journals and articles.

Dedicated studio:

The campus also has a well-decorated film and photography studio, equipped with editing machines and sound recording equipment.

Super-fast connectivity:

The whole campus is covered by high-speed internet capable of supporting thousands of students interacting at the same time. Also, there are dedicated IT and Audio-video staff available on campus to support resolve any errors.

Student sports & leisure:

Students can benefit from on and off-campus gyms, cafes, restaurants and bars within the lively community built around Chiswick Park. Also, there are many open grounds for outdoor sports and activities.

Courses

Undergraduate

  1. Accounting & Finance  
  2. Accounting & Finance (Extended)  
  3. Accounting & Finance (Study Abroad)  
  4. Art History & Visual Culture  
  5. Art History & Visual Culture (Extended)  
  6. Art History & Visual Culture (Study Abroad)  
  7. Business Management: Data Analytics  
  8. Business Management: Data Analytics (Extended)  
  9. Business Management: Data Analytics (Study Abroad)  
  10. Business Management: Entrepreneurship  
  11. Business Management: Entrepreneurship (Extended)  
  12. Business Management: Entrepreneurship (Study Abroad)  
  13. Business Management: Human Resource Management  
  14. Business Management: Human Resource Management (Extended)
  15. Business Management: Human Resource Management (Study Abroad)
  16. Business Management: International Business  
  17. Business Management: International Business (Extended)  
  18. Business Management: International Business (Study Abroad)
  19. Communications: Advertising & Public Relations  
  20. Communications: Advertising & Public Relations (Extended)
  21. Communications: Advertising & Public Relations (Study Abroad)
  22. Communications: Media Studies  
  23. Communications: Media Studies (Extended)  
  24. Communications: Media Studies (Study Abroad)  
  25. Computer Science  
  26. Computer Science (Extended)  
  27. Computer Science (Study Abroad)  
  28. Digital Communication & Social Media  
  29. Digital Communication & Social Media (Extended)  
  30. Digital Communication & Social Media (Study Abroad)  
  31. Digital Marketing  
  32. Digital Marketing (Extended)  
  33. Digital Marketing (Study Abroad)  
  34. Economics  
  35. Economics (Extended)  
  36. Economics (Study Abroad)  
  37. Fashion Management & Marketing  
  38. Fashion Management & Marketing (Extended)  
  39. Fashion Management & Marketing (Study Abroad)  
  40. Film & Photography  
  41. Film & Photography (Extended)  
  42. Film & Photography (Study Abroad)  
  43. Film Studies  
  44. Film Studies (Extended)  
  45. Film Studies (Study Abroad)  
  46. Finance & Investment  
  47. Finance & Investment (Extended)  
  48. Finance & Investment (Study Abroad)  
  49. International History  
  50. International History (Extended)  
  51. International History (Study Abroad)  
  52. International Relations  
  53. International Relations (Extended)  
  54. International Relations (Study Abroad)  
  55. International Sports Management with Men’s Football  
  56. International Sports Management with Men’s Football (Extended)
  57. International Sports Management with Women’s Football  
  58. International Sports Management with Women’s Football (Extended)
  59. Political Science  
  60. Political Science (Extended)  
  61. Political Science (Study Abroad)  
  62. Psychology  
  63. Psychology (Extended)  
  64. Psychology (Study Abroad)

Postgraduate

  1. Advertising & Public Relations  
  2. Advertising & Public Relations (Internship)  
  3. Art History & Visual Culture  
  4. Art History & Visual Culture (Internship)  
  5. Digital Marketing with Data Analytics  
  6. Film: Science Fiction & Fantasy  
  7. Film: Science Fiction & Fantasy (Internship)  
  8. International Business Management  
  9. International Business Management (Internship)  
  10. International Relations  
  11. International Relations (Internship)  
  12. Luxury Brand Management  
  13. Luxury Brand Management (Internship)  
  14. MBA  
  15. MBA (Entrepreneurship)  
  16. MBA (Entrepreneurship) (Internship)  
  17. MBA (Human Resource Management)  
  18. MBA (Human Resource Management) (Internship)  
  19. MBA (Internship)  
  20. MBA (Marketing)  
  21. MBA (Marketing) (Internship)
  22. Project Management for Sustainability

Divisions and Departments

Richmond American University London is composed of three main departments

  1. Communications & The Arts, Social Sciences and Psychology
  2. Liberal Arts
  3. Richmond Business School

Faculty and Staff

Richmond American University London has a diverse board of members and academic faculty. Some of them are listed below.

  1. Professor Phil Deans (President and Vice-Chancellor)
  2. Professor Kelly Coate (Provost)
  3. Ying Kay Deputy (Vice Chancellor, Finance and Operations)
  4. Professor Sabine Spangenberg (Deputy Provost for Faculty)
  5. Dom Alessio (Vice President of International Programmes)
  6. Dr. Allison Cole-Stutz Vice President (Pro Vice-Chancellor) Student Affairs
  7. Sukh Chonk (VP of Marketing, Recruitment and Communication)
  8. Dean Morley (Director of Human Resources)
  9. Stephanie Parr (Registrar & Deputy Provost: Academic Operations)
  10. Pragya Rai (Head of Planning, Research and Institutional Assessment)

Student Life

Being enrolled at Richmond American University London can provide diverse student life experiences. From enjoying a multinational student community to the buzzing livelihood of London Street, there is always something exciting to do here in West London. Some of the major attractions of experiencing student life are described further.

Special events and activities:

RAUL organises numerous special events for students to participate through its academic years. Some events include international nights, Springfest and various trips covering the United Kingdom and Europe countries, giving student a breath of fresh air between their study schedule.

Build leadership skills:

The university consists of a Leadership Academy which provides sessions to aid students in building their leadership capabilities and obtaining skills through volunteering and internship programs.

Wellbeing activities:

To improve the health and well-being of students and faculty members, RAUL takes several initiatives. Such as fitness classes, outdoor sports events, indoor games, therapy dogs etc for students to engage, and stay fit physically and mentally.

Student clubs and societies:

Offering a variety of clubs and student societies for newcomers and continuing pupils to join, get connected and participate in various activities. From academic clubs to cultural societies, each group with its unique characteristics. it's a great way to meet new people, flex creative minds and develop new skills.

Cultural variety:

West London is home to numerous cultural and entertainment venues, including theatres, museums, and music venues, offering plenty of options for leisure and enjoyment.

Amenities at proximity:

Popular for its diverse community, West London has all the necessary amenities within a short walking distance from the university campus. Areas like Kensington, Fulham, and Hammersmith offer a wide range of super shops, departmental stores, continental restaurants, and cultural attractions that students can visit.

Green spaces:

The campuses are located close to small and medium-sized parks. There are two beautifully decorated gardens named Kensington Gardens and Hammersmith Park situated close to the RAUL campuses, giving students the opportunity to visit, have a walk and experience the calm natural environment.

Student Statistics

  1. Undergraduate: 85%
  2. Postgraduate: 15%
  3. Full-time students: 99%
  4. Part-time students: 1%
  5. UK students: 43%
  6. EU students: 17%
  7. International students: 40%
  8. Female: 54%
  9. Male: 46%

Transportation

Richmond American University London students benefit from various kinds of transportation systems. The intricate transport network built over Greater London offers easy access to the entire city and beyond.

The London Underground, or "Tube," is the most efficient and technically the safest way to navigate central London, with numerous underground subway lines connecting the main areas. You can also hop on to London's iconic red buses covering most city roads and a scenic way to travel.

There are also Overground and National Rail services that link to central London to the outskirts and surrounding regions ideal for exploring other parts of the United Kingdom.

As a student from Richmond American University London, you choose to walk or use a cycle for travelling in and around campus areas, allowing you to experience London's multicultural atmosphere.

The river Thames has sliced its way through central London offering a unique and scenic mode of transport on waterways.

The Oyster card is an essential item for students offered by the Transport Authority. It allows seamless payment and access to most public transport inside London.

This includes the Tube, buses, trams, Overground, and some National Rail services. Students aged over 18 can apply for a Student Oyster photocard, unlocking a 30% discount on weekly, monthly, and annual Travelcards and Bus & Tram Passes.

With the availability of diverse and efficient transportation options, students at Richmond American University London campus can easily navigate the city, explore its many tourist sites, parks, supermalls, museums, and experience the best of the capital.

Housing and Accommodation

Richmond American University London has several affiliated student housing. Situated in close proximity to the university campus building. Price ranges from £100 to £300 per week depending on the type of rooms and duration of the stay. They are mentioned below:

  1. Lamington Apartments
  2. AES
  3. Hammersmith by Condokeeper

For a short stay, the university accommodation service can also offer housing arrangements. Students prefer for a short stay during semester breaks and yearly vacations.

Many local hotels with cheaper rates are also available at Chiswick. They offer all the basic needs for stay and may even offer international study-oriented furniture for staying longer duration. Here are the names of hotels that support accommodation.

  1. YHA Earl’s Court
  2. YHA London Central
  3. YHA Oxford Street
  4. Clayton Hotel
  5. Best Western
  6. Studiolet
  7. Travelodge

Extracurricular Activities

  1. Participate in Art classes organised by Art societies and explore various art galleries within London City to expand networking reach.
  2. Students from Indian origin and neighbouring countries can also join Bharat society and celebrate Indian culture through music, food, fashion, and language.
  3. Book clubs for students to join, ready and exchange books, gather knowledge and share thoughts on similar topics.
  4. There are multiple gaming societies for esports-loving individuals to participate in and ladder their way to top gaming platforms and competitions.
  5. Other societies and clubs include Korean Culture Society, Black Univon Society, Baking Society, Japanese Culture Appreciation Society, Richmond Stags Football Club, Quant Society and others
  6. Students who are trendy and have a keen interest in fashion can join fashion societies to enhance their fashion sense and learn trendy designs.
  7. Students are able to participate in educational trips organised by university authorities and learn about British culture.

Partnerships and Collaborations

RAU collaborates with various organizations and institutions to provide students with comprehensive support and opportunities, including internships, research projects, and cultural exchange programs. Some of them are mentioned below:

North American Partners

  1. University of Akron (Ohio, USA)
  2. Florida International University (Miami, Florida, USA)
  3. Iowa State University (Ames, Iowa, USA)
  4. Mount Saint Mary’s University (Los Angeles, California, USA)

Global Partners

  1. Zhejiang Hangzhou Iron & Steel Vocational Education Group Co., Ltd. (China)
  2. Randolph Macon College (Ashland, Virginia, USA)
  3. Various institutions in Europe, South America, Asia, the Middle East, South East Asia, the South Pacific, and Africa

Research Opportunities

Richmond American University London offers some research opportunities for students to pursue their academic goals. Some key research opportunities are:

  1. Research for global politics, human rights and
  2. International Relations Research
  3. Faculty-led research

Fees and Scholarships

Richmond American University London offers a competitive tuition fee and scholarship scope for international students. The amount of ongoing year tuition fees and scholarship options are mentioned below:

Tuition fees: (for International Students)

  1. Undergraduate- £15,645 to £32,150 per year
  2. Postgraduate- £15,000 to £22,000 per year

Scholarships:

  1. Liberal Arts International Excellence Award - £3,000 per year
  2. Liberal Arts International Attainment Award - £2,000 per year
  3. Masters Recognition of Excellence Award - 15% reduction on tuition fees
  4. Masters Recognition of Achievement Award - 10% reduction of tuition fees
  5. Alumni Award up to 20% (for students who previously studied at some other programme from the same university)

Alumni Network

Richmond American University London Alumni network consists of many famous personnel from various career sectors. A few of the notable alumni are listed below

  1. Benjamin Hall (journalist)
  2. Bill Paxton (Hollywood actor and director)
  3. Bobby Chinn (celebrity chef)
  4. Nazia Hassan (singer-songwriter)
  5. Prince Louis of Luxembourg (son of Henri, Grand Duke of Luxembourg)
  6. Princess Tessy of Luxembourg (UNAIDS Ambassador)
  7. Russ Carnahan (U.S. Congressman)
  8. Joe Sumner (singer-songwriter and son of Sting)
  9. Ajeenkya Patil (economist and chairman of the D Y Patil Group)
  10. Suzan Sabancı Dinçer (chairwoman of Akbank)
  11. Andrew Neeme (professional poker player)
  12. Rosario, Princess of Preslav (Spanish art director)

Career Services

Richmond American University London offers comprehensive career services to enhance students' employability and help them transition smoothly from academic life to professional careers. Here are some key aspects

  1. Specialised student support service
  2. One-to-one career assessment
  3. Cover letter reviews,
  4. Internship programs
  5. Workshops on CV preparation
  6. Job fairs
  7. Student affairs support.
  8. International opportunities
  9. Networking events
  10. Career support and guidance program.

Awards and Recognitions

  1. 2nd place in Global Resilience by  World University Rankings for Innovation (The WURI)
  2. Awarded 54th place in Social Responsibility by  World University Rankings for Innovation (The WURI)
  3. 86th in Student Support and Engagement by  World University Rankings for Innovation (The WURI)
  4. 40 different categories of awards at Honours Night 2024

Location

Both University of London's campuses are in highly desirable city areas. The Richmond Campus houses the university's first- and second-year students.

It is only a twenty-minute tube journey from the city to Richmond, a neighbourhood favouring royalty, the wealthy, and the famous for centuries.

Students in their last two years of undergraduate study and graduate school all call the Kensington campus home because of its convenient location in the centre of London.

The school is conveniently located near the financial sector and the city's many museums, theatres, and other cultural attractions.

Frequently asked questions

Richmond, The American University in London is a private, non-profit university located in Richmond upon Thames, London. It was founded in 1972 and offers undergraduate and graduate degree programmes in a wide range of fields, including business, communication, international relations, and the liberal arts.