University Academy 92 (UA92) - Manchester

A

Was promised multiple comptia, aws and Microsoft qualifications that would be given to use at the end of each block in computer science. Did not receive one or was even talked about until the very last block when it was too late and wasn't even comptia it was a clouds fundamentals. Incredibly misleading. Uni was small and none existent social life. Don't bother coming here especially if it is for tech you will be very disappointed.

Tengku A.

My 3 years at the university has been wonderful! The staff has always been very welcoming and approachable, greeting you with a smile every morning. My tutors are amazing, always ready to answer any questions and to help us navigate through assignments. I have also received a lot of opportunities when it comes to work experiences and meeting people from the industry making my university experience even more valuable. UA92 is definitely a place worth considering as your higher education placement. The way they do things is different but it truly produces the best results!

Eisa R.

Positives:
+ Learning Structure: The six-week modules followed by a one-week break help manage workload effectively, unlike traditional universities that juggle multiple modules and exams. Note that some courses, such as Accounting and Finance, still include exams.

+ Course Options: UA92 offers flexible course durations: one year (Cert HE), two years (Accelerated Degree), and the traditional three-year degree. I completed the Accelerated Degree from September 2022 to July 2024.

+ Classroom Environment: Classes are conducted in smaller rooms rather than lecture halls, promoting a closer bond among students and more personalised attention.

+ Diverse Workforce: A mix of younger and older staff provides varied perspectives and guidance.

+ Facilities: Both the Business School and Old Trafford campuses have breakout spaces with laptop access. Old Trafford has a more vibrant atmosphere, while the Business School can feel less inviting. Cleanliness varies; the Old Trafford campus is generally well-maintained, but the Business School requires improvement, particularly in communal areas.

+ Transport: Easy access to both campuses via Metrolink, with Old Trafford being a quick three-minute walk and the Business School being a 10 to 15-minute walk.

Negatives:
- Overpromised Experience: UA92's external image is appealing, but internal management issues exist, including overworked staff and insufficient skill development for students.

- Toxic Culture: Some staff prioritise self-interest, leading to poor complaint management and ineffective communication.

- Lack of Knowledge Among Staff: Many Business lecturers lack real knowledge and often rely on reading directly from presentations. While some can adequately answer student questions, others struggle to provide meaningful insights. This lack of industry knowledge and understanding of accounting practices limits students' preparedness for real-world challenges.

- Overworked Staff: A few dedicated teachers go above and beyond, but many lecturers lack real-world experience, negatively impacting the learning experience and engagement.

- Feedback Ignored: Student feedback is often disregarded, and frank communication can lead to disciplinary actions, discouraging open dialogue.

- Lengthy Complaint Process: The appeal process is slow and ineffective, with little chance for timely resolution.

- Character Development Classes: The "Character Personal Development" module feels unnecessary at Levels 4 and 5 and would be better suited for Level 6. This should be an opportunity for students to receive tutoring on building industry-related skills rather than reflecting on study block experiences.

Conclusion:
While UA92 has an attractive learning structure and flexibility, significant management and educational quality issues overshadow the experience. The dedication of some genuine and commendable staff stands out, as they truly aim to help students through their journey. However, the lack of practical training, poor feedback handling, and toxic culture remain major drawbacks.

This is my review of my time at University Academy 92, I would highly recommend you to have a look at the Glassdoor reviews.

Thank you for taking the time to read this.

Beth M.

AMAZING UNIVERSITY

Couldn’t recommend this uni enough, my confidence, academic skills and experience I gained during my time studying Journalism here moulded me into the person I always wished of being. I’ve managed to secure my dream job in a similar industry to what I studied and put it down to the amazing opportunities given at UA92.

Taryn G.

My time at UA92 was the best part of my academic journey. Being a Manchester United fan just made it even more amazing with the opportunities on offer. Thanks to the tutors and the staff who supported me I have managed to go and do a masters whilst also being a lecturer in sport at a college. As I have moved to another university for my masters, it makes me miss UA92 even more as the support they have for students is unmatched and in my opinion, better than any other university out there. This is due to the student focus instead of a brand/grade focus that many other universities follow. For anyone that wants to start their academic journey I will always recommend this place as it has a special place in my heart for how they helped me become the best version of myself whilst they were also supporting me through the lows of my personal life to help me get through it. Thank you UA92!

Katie B.

Amazing building for work and study. Very friendly staff and students

Bg B.

As I reflect upon my three-year journey at the university, I feel compelled to share my candid thoughts and experiences. While I acknowledge the efforts made by certain instructors in my Computer Science program during the final year, I must express my profound disappointment and frustration with the overall quality and fulfillment of the promises made, particularly in relation to the university's purported collaboration with Microsoft.

When I initially chose to enroll in this university, I was captivated by the prospect of a close affiliation with Microsoft, as it was a driving factor in my decision. Regrettably, I found that the university's claims regarding its collaboration with Microsoft were grossly misleading. There was a distinct lack of substantial involvement from Microsoft throughout my tenure, leading to a profound sense of disillusionment.

Specifically, one of the promises that drew me to this institution was the assurance of three months of valuable work experience with Microsoft. However, this promise remained unfulfilled, and the opportunities for Microsoft-related work experience were conspicuously absent. This glaring discrepancy between what was promised and what was actually delivered left me disheartened and questioning the integrity of the institution's marketing efforts.

Throughout the majority of my time at the university, I encountered significant challenges and felt ill-prepared for the demands of my field. It was only in the final year that I experienced an improvement in the quality of instruction, thanks to the dedication and expertise of a few exceptional teachers. Nevertheless, the overall experience remains tarnished by the overarching false premise that the university was deeply intertwined with Microsoft.

I understand that unexpected circumstances can arise, and partnerships may evolve over time. However, the lack of transparency and the failure to provide meaningful opportunities aligned with the initial promise has left a lasting impression of disappointment and frustration. As a student who invested considerable time, effort, and financial resources into this program, I expected more.

I write this review not only to express my personal discontent but also to advocate for future students who may be enticed by the allure of the university's purported affiliation with Microsoft. It is my sincere hope that you will take my feedback seriously and critically reevaluate the university's claims and marketing strategies.

Aiden P.

Absolute trash. Avoid this University at all costs. It lacks in every field, the teaching is mediocre and not engaging, there are barely any students, no societies, no library, no LECTURE HALLS, and no cafe or canteen. This is barely a University. I regret ever choosing this as I missed out on the opportunity to experience University since this is more like a school. Avoid this Uni at all costs, you’ll sit there wondering what University is really like while you do classroom learning like a child.