Housing

The cost of housing during the two terms is included in the programme cost. All students live in Manor House, a residence hall that is part of the University of Birmingham student housing. (To see what Manor House looks like check out the Manor House website (http://www.bham.ac.uk/ManorHouse). Manor House was a mansion that formerly belonged to the Cadbury family in Birmingham which has been renovated into student housing. Manor House is within walking distance of the programme classrooms and offices. It has a dining hall where you have your breakfast and dinner, its own house pub, a common room, and a library.

The majority of student residents are British, although some of the residents are other foreign students. British student housing is basic but comfortable. All rooms are single rooms, and all rooms are wired for the Internet, so bring your laptops. Students will have access to a telephone which is located in the hallways. Should you wish your own phone, you can make arrangements at your own expense to have one installed or purchase a cell phone. Students are permitted to smoke in their rooms. Student housing includes sheets, blankets, and pillows, but residents must provide their own towels and washcloth(called “flannels” in England!). Many past students have found an extra polar fleece blanket very welcome; you may want to bring one. Students will have breakfast and weekday dinners provided. They will receive a monthly meal check to be used as desired for other meals.

All students should expect to make deposits related to their housing (approximately £50) on arrival.

Based on UMD housing policy, it is the programme's policy not to provide student housing or meals during Christmas and spring break periods. Students are responsible for all costs during breaks, and must make their own arrangements for accommodation. Further, if you wish to leave your belongings in your residence over holiday break, you must pay approximately £40 to the University of Birmingham. This is because British students have always been expected to take everything home during semester breaks.

It may take a few weeks to adjust to your new accommodations and living in British culture. Our housing coordinator will try to see that your stay is enjoyable. Housing will be different than you are accustomed to, but nice, and comfortable. If, after a few weeks, you don't feel at home for some reason, talk with the housing coordinator and/or the Programme Director. They can usually help out.