Transferring to dBs
from another institution

For all of our undergraduate programmes it is possible to transfer to dBs from another university. Whether you’re dissatisfied with your current course, or simply think that dBs might be a better fit, we’re here to help you make that change.

Why transfer to dBs Institute?

As a specialist higher education institute, we’ve been able to invest in the best equipment available - some of which can’t be found in any other UK institute!

As a student at dBs, you will have access to all of these spaces including…

Industry-standard recording studios
Our recording studios are modelled on what you would find in the real world, and you will have access to an incredible selection of equipment including mixing desks from Neve, Solid State Logic, API and Audient; hardware effects from Warm Audio, Bricasti, TC Electronic, Universal Audio, Kush and Empirical Labs; monitors from Genelec, Adam Audio and PMC; and a range of microphones from the humble SM58 to the stellar Neumann U87.
Cutting-edge game development suites
(Bristol & Manchester)
Design and program a range of interactive experiences using our high-spec gaming PCs, add realistic performance with our Perception Neuron mo-cap suits, fine-tune your digital art using Wacom Intuos Pro creative pen tablets and craft immersive experiences with our Meta Quest 2 virtual reality headsets.
Purpose-built venue spaces
(Bristol & Manchester)
Hone your live sound engineering skills in our dedicated practical spaces, complete with stages and rigging, plus speakers and mixing consoles from d&b Audiotechnik, Martin Audio, Allen & Heath, Midas, Yamaha and more.
Dolby Atmos suites
Move beyond stereo sound and explore the new frontier of sound. Learn how to record, mix and master immersive listening experiences in our Dolby Atmos suites featuring 7.1.4 speaker systems.
Learn from the pros
You will be taught by our highly experienced team of tutors, many of whom are still actively working to this day, as well as our extensive network of guest speakers from across the creative industries.

A female student studying with headphones on

Transferring University FAQs

What should I do / think about before applying to transfer?

If you’re considering transferring universities, it’s important to do your research before committing to any change.

Switching university is a big decision. You’ll need to consider the course you want to pursue. Also, think about how the transfer could affect your student finance eligibility, relocation needs, and accommodation contracts.

When researching your new course, think about where your current course isn’t hitting the mark and pay particular attention to the module descriptions to ensure that the new course meets your needs. Consider also what else is important to you (access to facilities, institution size, work experience opportunities etc.) and how your institution compares in these areas.

Finally, you should consider whether you wish to transfer and join year two or three of your chosen course. You may also have the option of restarting at year one (student finance dependent). Please be aware that there are different options should you wish to join year three, which you can discuss with our admissions team.

How do I transfer?

Your first port of call is our Admissions Team, who can arrange an informal chat with a course leader to discuss your suitability for the course. If all goes well, you will then be encouraged to make a UCAS application.

dBs has been really good at integrating me into my second year and I feel like I’ve fit into my course really well. I didn’t find it hard to integrate with the course, even though the equipment was a bit different from my last uni. dBs has definitely been a lot more supportive and interested in my education than my previous uni.

- Oli, BA (Hons) Electronic Music Production

At what point in my course can I transfer?

You can apply at any point but you will not be able transfer midway through the academic year and will have to wait until the start of the next academic year to join the course.

Which dBs courses are open to transfer applications?

All of our undergraduate degrees.

Can I switch to another course within dBs?

Yes! This should be discussed with your course leader.

How will dBs assess transfer applications?

We will consider all of the following:

Your current university course
The course you’re looking to transfer to
Your academic history, including A-Levels and university grades to date
Details of the modules you have already completed / your academic transcript.
Relevant subject experience

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It was really smooth overall… Everything was checked incredibly quickly and dBs were able to tell me very fast that my chances of being accepted were incredibly high.

- Dom, BA (Hons) Electronic Music Production

How will transferring affect my student loan?

This will depend on several things. Your current course, your year of study and the course you have chosen to transfer to could all affect the level of student loan you’re entitled to.

If you’re set on switching, it’s important to let the relevant student finance company know as soon as possible.
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For more information, visit your country's website:
‍
England – Student Finance England
‍Wales – Student Finance Wales
‍Scotland – Student Awards Agency Scotland
‍Northern Ireland – Student Finance Northern Ireland

Ready to transfer?

Once you are ready, email or call our admissions team on the following numbers:

Email: admissions@dbsinstitute.ac.uk
‍Bristol: 0117 325 9290
Manchester: 0161 552 6542
Plymouth: 01752 210801‍

We advise that all transfer students visit dBs before making the final decision to study here. We run tours and open days throughout the year, which you can sign up for now.

I’ve adapted to things really quickly and I think maybe even switching unis gives you a bit of an advantage in that you’ve got a bit more experience. You’ve seen how one place does it and how another place does it and maybe, you know, that makes you a little bit more well-rounded.

- Tom, BA (Hons) Music Production & Sound Engineering

Transferring to dBs from another institution

Why transfer to dBs Institute?

Industry-standard recording studios

Cutting-edge game development suites

Purpose-built venue spaces

Dolby Atmos suites

Learn from the pros