In the independent national poll, 87% of the faculty's final year students said they were satisfied with their courses, up from last year's result of 84% - and three courses at the faculty received a satisfaction rating from students of 100%.

The NSS, which asks final year undergraduates to provide honest feedback on what it has been like to study at their institution, found that every student in Operating Department Practice, and Health & Social Care courses was satisfied with their studies.

A further nine Health and Social Science courses all received a higher than national rating for satisfaction, including Applied Social Sciences (96%), Child and Adolescent Studies (94%), Biological Sciences (91%), Mental Health Nursing (91%) and Midwifery (95%).

This feedback has shown that overall the faculty is above the national average (86%) compared to similar faculties in other universities.

Prof Michael Preston-Shoot, Executive Dean of Health and Social Sciences commenting on the results of this year's survey said:

"This year more students than ever at Bedfordshire took part in the survey, so the results are a true representation of the view of our students and their experience during their three years as part of our University community.

"Students who opt to join Bedfordshire can be assured we are wholly-committed to ensuring our students have the best possible experience, as members of our University community. This is reflected in our high quality teaching, our outstanding facilities and the great student support we provide."

The survey also shows that Bedfordshire is one of the leading universities in the country for improving the career prospects and choices of its students, and for aiding students' personal development, with ratings of 86%.

The University's students also rated Bedfordshire very highly for its learning resources and for the assessment and feedback provided to students by its teaching staff.

• See more information on the University's NSS results this year