Dorset has two universities and three separate colleges. There is evidence of periodic population ever since 8000 BC and first permanent settlers arrived around 3000 BC, so the city has a long history.

Arts studies incorporate the history, culture, and practice of a variety of different art forms. Examples of topic areas include sculpture, film, painting, musical instruments, theater, and photography. Programs often combine classroom learning with hands-on work.

The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, commonly known as the United Kingdom and Britain, is a sovereign state located off the northwestern coast of continental Europe. The two most famous (and oldest) universities are Oxford and Cambridge (often referred to as Oxbridge by many Britons). England also has several other world-class institutions, including several in London (notably Imperial College, the London School of Economics, University College London and King's College London, all are part of London University).

A preparatory year is designed to get students ready for their first year at a university. This year can consist of taking a number of courses that will prove to be useful once your traditional education begins.