AECC UNIVERSITY COLLEGE  

AECC University College, formally known as the Anglo European College of Chiropractic, is a specialist health sciences higher education provider based in Bournemouth. Located two hours from London and positioned on the south coast of England in Bournemouth, AECC University College offers internationally recognised qualifications at both undergraduate and postgraduate level, in a supportive close-knit community for students to thrive and succeed.   

For more than 50-years the University College has been at the forefront of musculoskeletal health and wellbeing, including in the fields of chiropractic, psychology, physiotherapy, sports, exercise, and health science subject areas, providing the world with professionals who are ready to make a difference to society. 
 

STUDY AT AECC UNIVERSITY COLLEGE  

As a specialist health sciences university, the mission to ‘create a healthier society through education, research and clinical care’ is as relevant today as it was when the institution first opened.  

Since 1965 AECC have been at the forefront of chiropractic education, research, and practice. Founded as the first and largest provider in Europe, continuing to diversify into other health, sport and exercise disciplines including radiography (diagnostic imaging and therapeutic), rehabilitation, physiotherapy, sport psychology, speech therapy, podiatry, dietetics, and occupational therapy, creating a rich multi-professional environment for learning and practice. 

AECC University College is also home to a centre of excellence for medical ultrasound education, and hosts a range of onsite diagnostic imaging services, providing support to the NHS and other healthcare providers, the local community, and AECC’s own onsite clinics and centre with over 40,000 clinic visits a year.  

Clinical application is a huge part of the learning. The aim is for students to learn using a blended approach, teaching through lectures, practical skills and hands-on placement, preparing for real-world experience. By emphasising the practical knowledge and a deep understanding of the subject area, AECC University College effectively equips students with the tools they need to succeed in their chosen healthcare profession. This approach not only enhances academic learning but also fosters real-world skills that are essential for professional success. 

Studying at AECC University College provides benefit of world-class academic expertise, coupled with groundbreaking facilities, with the institution offering a unique and advanced equipment that set AECC University College apart. 
 

HISTORY OF AECC UNIVERSITY COLLEGE 

AECC University College, which was formerly known as Anglo-European College of Chiropractic and established in 1965 as the first chiropractic school in Europe.  As the first chiropractic college in Europe success is built on a commitment to excellence. For over 55 years AECC University College have been leaders in musculoskeletal health and wellbeing, developed from the roots as the first chiropractic training college in Europe, remaining one of the premier chiropractic training institutions in the world.  

During the past 15 years AECC University College have branched out into a range of allied health, sport, exercise and social science disciplines including undergraduate radiography (diagnostic and therapeutic), psychology, sport and exercise science, clinical exercise, and sport rehabilitation.  Also developing a range of career options for graduates wishing to enter health professions with graduate entry to masters-level programmes. 

It’s AECC University College’s proud, pioneering spirit and a history in healthcare education, training, and delivery that allows continuous challenge, to shape the future of health sciences today. 
 

SPECIALIST AREAS AT AECC UNIVERSITY COLLEGE 

AECC University College is a specialist institution, offering higher education courses and expertise focused on health science specialisms.  AECC University College offers several bachelor's and master's programmes in chiropractic. The most popular programme is the five-year degree Masters in Chiropractic (MChiro), which gives students the knowledge and skills to safely treat patients and to obtain a highly recognised degree. Chiropractic is a recognised and rewarding profession with good job opportunities to diagnose and treat a variety of musculoskeletal disorders.   

At AECC University College, the chiropractic degree that is internationally accredited and recognised, giving the opportunity to work anywhere in the world. Graduated students work with everything from top athletes to children and the elderly, in addition to the rest of the population. 

As well as a registered higher education provider, AECC University College is registered as a healthcare provider with the Care Quality Commission and proud provider of care to the local community directly, in partnership with local NHS providers and along with a range of partners from the local authority, independent and voluntary sectors. 
 

LIFE ON CAMPUS 

One reason that students choose AECC University College is for the onsite clinical provision.  

As part of your degree, students learn and train in various placement clinics and centres across the campus, providing the confidence to grow. The campus spaces includes a fully equipped integrated rehabilitation centre with an impressive suite of facilities, a separate training clinic with 33 treatment rooms, a human performance laboratory with high quality motion analysis systems, a prosection laboratory, with imaging facilities in ultrasound, x-ray and MRI Clinics. 

To support clinical and skill-based learning there are on-campus numerous clinical teaching laboratory spaces, and a range of simulation equipment including manikins and virtual reality systems. These facilities ensure students can access state-of-the art kit to learn, practise and to develop their skills.  

Every day holds opportunities to seize; to learn from respected healthcare clinicians and tutors.  Sharing and growing ideas and ways of working with peers in a multidisciplinary setting, becoming part of a unique, distinctive, and diverse community. The time at AECC University College equips students with the skills and confidence to thrive in their chosen fields and on to professional lives.  
 

STUDENT SUPPORT AT AECC UNIVERSITY COLLEGE 

AECC University College have a dedicated Student Service support team who are situated in the heart of the campus, easily accessible. The Student Services team will support with every step of the university journey receiving guidance and information helping to make the most of your time with AECC, whether that’s with study skills, managing your finances, or career advice,  preparing with the expertise and the experience to excel in the students chosen field.  

Specialist services offered by Student Services, include international student advice, academic and personal support, counselling as well help with: 

  • Developing academic skills, study skills and use of English for academic purposes
  • Wellbeing, counselling services and mental health support
  • Advice on practical issues including managing money whilst at university
  • Finding accommodation for different budgets and preferences 
     

AECC UNIVERSITY COLLEGE FACILITIES  

These sorts of facilities can’t be found anywhere.  Some of the facilities include: one of the UK’s seven open upright MRI scanner, digital anatomage table, NASA designed AlterG® Anti-Gravity treadmill, digital x-ray suite, high-specification ultrasound scanners, along with plenty of other simulated learning environments for practical experience. 

The University College specialist library collection is highly regarded by students and has been tailored and developed to enhance learning and research experience. Both using online and in the library, there is a wealth of resources including databases, e-journals and e-books, as well as access to Anatomy TV. The Learning Services Team will also support with digital literacy and research skills, delivering teaching and training courses in a range of IT and research skills. 

The beautiful Library offers tech-enabled study pods, desk space, comfy and relaxed seating areas and a self-service kiosk.  

With Wi-Fi throughout campus, areas dedicated to group or independent study, plenty of laptops for loan, and helpful staff on hand, the Library is an ideal place to study and grow knowledge. 
 

SPORTS AND SOCIETIES AT AECC UNIVERSITY COLLEGE 

The AECC University College Students’ Union (ASU) is a hub of activity. The calendar is packed with events and there are plenty of ways to get involved with clubs and societies. From Induction Week to Christmas Revue, from Sports Nights at the campus bar to Wellness Week, there’s plenty of choice when it comes to making lifelong friends and meeting new colleagues.  

The Students’ Union are the voice of the students; they work hard to make university life one that’s never forgotten. The SU team is a diverse mix of nationalities and cultures and provide a supportive, inclusive, friendly, and fun atmosphere as well as any advice needed.  

Opportunities include keeping fit with a range of activities, groups, and sports clubs. AECC University College students also have access to a campus gym and range of classes. With use of a discounted rate at BH Live gyms in the local area which will provide you with courts, studios, as well as swimming and football facilities which host national competitions.  

Whether a budding sports enthusiast, high-performing athlete, or keen spectator, there’s something for everyone from rugby and football to rowing and netball to name a few. If music is your passion, there are open-mic nights on campus, as well as book clubs, through to a vegan society.  
 

ACCOMMODATION AT AECC UNIVERSITY COLLEGE 

When it comes to student accommodation, there’s a variety of residences that cater for varying preferences and budget.  Whether it’s living in student halls or in private rented accommodation, the Student Services team can help. 

AECC University College partner with Lulworth House Student Halls to provide halls of residence for students. Lulworth offers top-notch and cost-effective housing solution, with well-managed facilities, featuring round-the-clock security and dedicated on-site cleaning staff to guarantee a comfortable and stress-free stay. It’s a 15-minute cycle ride from campus and a 10-minute stroll to the beach. 

An alternative to Student Halls, can be found in the Accommodation Guide, with listings of available private rented accommodation, this provides an informative guide on how to go about renting accommodation. Whatever, the Student Services team will be on hand to help. 
 

INTERNATIONAL FOCUS  

Join the vibrant international student community groups. Welcomed in a safe, inclusive and supportive environment, perfect to support learning and success. 

AECC University College welcome students from all over the world and support them in their studies. If English is not a first language, English for Academic Purposes (EAP) tutors can help to develop language and study skills needed to succeed in academic coursework and clinical practice. 

AECC University College offers a supportive and inclusive environment where students can find peace of mind while pursuing their academic goals. Additionally, the institution provides various social opportunities for students to engage with peers, academics, and the broader community, fostering a well-rounded educational experience that goes beyond the classroom. 

Within the Student Services team, Study Skills tutors offer one-to-one support in developing independent study skills and strategies, helping with various aspect of study such as: 

  • Interpreting assessment briefs
  • English for academic purposes
  • Planning and time management
  • Revision strategies and exam techniques   

There’s also a chance to pop along to group workshops and study session through the peer assisted learning initiatives to support with development and progression. 
 

STUDY IN BOURNEMOUTH 

Situated in Bournemouth, the town itself has around 400,000 inhabitants, with a very active city centre. Here there are large, well-known companies, as well as real British culture with the feel of summer, shopping and tourism. The city is known for a good and varied nightlife, with many clubs, bars and famous restaurants. This gives Bournemouth a perfect balance between the busy city life, and the rural relaxation. It is easy to find both peace of mind as well as and opportunities for social activities. 

For the AECC University College, it is an advantage that the local football team and Premier League AFC Bournemouth is a stone's throw away. The university has a good collaboration with the football club. 

Bournemouth is also a festival city, and there is no shortage of festivals, concerts, and gatherings of various kinds held in nearby entertainment venues which include the O2 Academy, Bournemouth International Centre of Pavilion Theatre. Between the iconic Bournemouth Air Festival, to the Arts by the Sea Festival, there are many and varied events. There’s also the great and established artists scene in Bournemouth with a more established approach at Bournemouth International Centre and in contrast, there’s also the young and forward-thinking, Bournemouth Emerging Arts Festival. 

In everyday life, the town has everything expected from a city in England. There is shopping with cinemas, bars, and restaurants combined with hospitality and good British culture, as expected from one of the country's best seaside towns.  

If it’s the great outdoors, search Dorset’s natural habitat of either the New Forest National Park or the World Heritage Site of the Jurassic Coast which is only a stone's throw away. Here everything is set up for a fantastic time. 
 

WHY STUDY AT THE AECC UNIVERSITY COLLEGE 

  • Close-knit community - Life on a small campus means being part of a close-knit community of students. 

  • Unmatched expertise - Since 1965, AECC University College have led chiropractic education, research, and practice in Europe and continued to diversify into other health sciences subject-areas. 

  • State-of-the-art facilities – AECC University College offers unique and advanced facilities and equipment that sets them apart from others.  

  • Receive onsite clinical training - One reason that students choose AECC UC is for the onsite clinical training. 
     

DO YOU WANT TO KNOW MORE?

The information on this page has been submitted by the higher education institution itself. If you want to know more, get in touch and one of our student advisors will answer all your questions!

Across the Pond is this university’s official representative for selected countries around the world which, depending on where you are from, means we can help you apply to its courses as well as with gathering all the documents needed to submit an application. We can normally offer a speedier route to help you since the institution is hugely popular and receives enquiries from all around the world on a daily basis. We also have close ties with the university’s international facing staff and as such can explain your grades, your academic background and the educational system in your home country. Our partner universities appreciate that students who apply through Across the Pond get the help they need, not only in terms of submitting the application and supporting documents, but also with everything leading up to arrival in the UK, such as student accommodation, visa and funding information as well as preparing for departure to the UK.

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FACTS ABOUT AECC UNIVERSITY 

Established: 1965 

Location: Bournemouth, on the south coast of England.  

Population: Around 400,000 people live in Bournemouth, Poole, and nearby Christchurch. 

Closest airport:  

  • Bournemouth International Airport 15 minutes away by taxi
  • Southampton Airport 50 minutes by train
  • London Heathrow Airport 1.5 hours by car
  • London Gatwick Airport 2 hours by car 

Student population: Number of students at the AECC University College over 1300 

International students: Over a third of the student population are international students. 

Nationalities on campus: Number of nationalities on campus from over 61 countries 

Employability rate: 100% (for chiropractic) 
 

AREAS OF EXPERTISE/CENTRES OF EXCELLENCE 

  • Choose from a specialised selection of health science subjects at AECC University College.
  • From chiropractic; psychology; sport, exercise and health science; physiotherapy to medical imaging.
  • There’s a range of degree courses which are supported by clinical expertise in our on-site clinics and centres. 
     

FUN FACTS 

  • Bournemouth is famous for its picturesque views and health-inspired lifestyle, but there’s a lot more to this coastal town than its award-winning beaches.
  • From nightlife to sports, festivals to places of historical and natural interest.
  • There’s plenty to inspire, feeling a part of this vibrant coastal university town. 
     

WHY CHOOSE AECC 

Close-knit community 
Life on a small campus means being part of a close-knit community of students and staff from around the world.  As well as having a personal tutor, access is available to Peer Assisted Leaders (PAL), upper year students facilitating small collaborative study helping facilitating success. By being part of the educational community, see first-hand how studies translate into real-world practice and be the reason to transform people’s lives. 

Unmatched expertise  
Since 1965, AECC University College have led chiropractic education, research, and practice in Europe. Continuously diversify, now offering more health science subject areas, including sport and exercise disciplines, radiography, rehabilitation, physiotherapy, sport psychology, speech therapy, podiatry, dietetics, and occupational therapy. Creating a rich multi-professional environment for learning and practice. 

State-of-the-art facilities 
AECC University College offers unique and advanced equipment, with an upright MRI scanner, Anatomage table, AlterG® Anti-Gravity Treadmill, digital x-ray suite, high-specification ultrasound scanners, and simulated learning environments for practical experience. 

Onsite clinical training 
One reason that students choose AECC University College is for the onsite clinical training offered. As part of the degree learning training takes place in various placement clinics and centres across the campus, providing confidence to thrive. 
 

NOTABLE ALUMNI  

  • Andy Massey - Medical Director at the governing body of world football, FIFA. 
     

NOTABLE ACADEMICS 

  • Solomon Segal is a medically trained neuroanatomist with a postdoctoral training in anatomy applied to microneurosurgery
  • Zoe Wimshurst is Chartered Psychologist specialising in visual performance. Zoe also works with high level professional sports athletes, help the to improve their performance by improving enhancing perceptual capabilities. 
     

AECC UNIVERSITY COLLEGE RANKINGS 

  • AECC University College has scored 10/10 for ‘Value Add’ due to its support of student achievement and success, ranking the highest of all UK Universities in the category of ‘health professions’ in the Guardian University Guide 2024.  
  • The institution also ranked 37 out of the 100 UK Universities overall in the health professions category.  
Danny
Chiropractic, AECC University College

Students come from across the world to study at AECC University College. We recently caught up with Danny Nguyen, one of our final year chiropractic students who studies the Master of Chiropractic MChiro … Read more

Elena
Chiropractic, AECC University College

I find the creation and complexity of the human body very interesting. How it is so well made and how it adapts to its surroundings. I primarily knew that I wanted to work with people and help them optimise their health and life, and in… Read more

Brodie
Chiropractic, AECC University College

I really enjoyed my time at the AECC University College. I write this at the end of my 4 years and time has flown by! I feel like have really had a great education here and made some friends for life. It’s going to be really sad to leave… Read more

Ebu
Chiropractic, AECC University College
Which course are you studying and what year are you in?

I’m on the Chiropractic MSc course year 5, so I’ve been here for five years, doing two years in clinic placement.  

What initially drew you to study chiropractic?

I just always… Read more

Hans Martin
Chiropractic, AECC University College
Which course are you studying and what year are you in?

MChiro year 4 – the final year of study.  

What drew you to study this subject?

Growing up, I was an active football player who suffered various injuries, and therefore, I was… Read more

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