About University
Situated to the south-east of the city of York,[7] the university campus is about 500 acres (200 hectares) in size.[8] The original campus, Campus West, incorporates the York Science Park and the National Science Learning Centre, and its wildlife, campus lakes and greenery are prominent. In May 2007 the university was granted permission to build an extension to its main campus, on arable land just east of the nearby village of Heslington. The second campus, Campus East, opened in 2009[9] and now hosts four colleges and three departments as well as conference spaces, a sports village and a business start-up 'incubator'. The institution also leases King's Manor in York city centre. The university had a total income of £403.6 million in 2020/21, of which £69.8 million was from research grants and contracts.
Popular For
The University of York, founded in 1963, is a prestigious public research university located in the historic city of York, England. It is particularly popular for its world-class research output, innovative teaching, and beautiful parkland campus, which blends medieval-inspired architecture with modern facilities. With over 20,000 students from more than 150 countries, York fosters a diverse, inclusive environment that emphasizes interdisciplinary studies and real-world impact.
Key Academic Strengths
York excels in several fields, consistently ranking in the top 20 UK universities for research quality. Its strengths include:
- Archaeology and Heritage Studies: As one of Europe's leading centers, the Department of Archaeology leverages York's Roman and Viking history for groundbreaking excavations and museum collaborations. It's ideal for students passionate about history and cultural preservation.
- Environmental and Climate Sciences: Renowned for sustainability research, York hosts the Stockholm Environment Institute and offers cutting-edge programs in ecology, renewable energy, and global policy.
- Social Sciences and Humanities: The university shines in areas like economics, politics, and law, with influential centers for human rights and international relations.
- STEM Disciplines: Popular for computer science, biology, and chemistry, featuring advanced labs and partnerships with industries like pharmaceuticals and tech.
Campus Life and Reputation
The campus experience is a major draw, with 28 colleges providing a close-knit community similar to Oxford or Cambridge but more modern and affordable. Facilities include state-of-the-art libraries, sports centers, and the award-winning York Mosque. York is also celebrated for its graduate employability, with 95% of graduates in work or further study within six months.
| Ranking/Highlight | Details |
|---|---|
| QS World University Rankings 2024 | Top 150 globally |
| Notable Alumni | Includes Nobel laureate Sir Paul Nurse and BBC journalist Emily Maitlis |
| Research Impact | Over £100 million in annual funding; leader in REF assessments |
In summary, the University of York is popular for blending academic rigor with a supportive, scenic setting, making it a top choice for ambitious students worldwide.
1963
Established
#20
Ranking
53+
Courses Available
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