University of York

Founded on principles of excellence, equality and opportunity for all, the University of York opened in 1963 with just 230 students. In less than 50 years we have become one of the world's leading universities, carving out a reputation as an academic powerhouse where a clear focus on excellence has secured national and international recognition alongside longer established institutions.

Academic excellence

A member of the elite Russell Group of universities, we are a dynamic, research-intensive university committed to the development of life-saving discoveries and new technologies to tackle some of the most pressing global challenges.

There are now over 30 academic departments and research centres and the student body has expanded to nearly 16,000.

Former students

Former students of the University include Editor of The Times John Witherow; former Director-General of the BBC Greg Dyke; authors Jung Chang and Helen Dunmore; comedian Harry Enfield, and ten MPs.

The campus and the city

Located within walking distance of York city centre, our safe and attractive Heslington campus is home to our eight colleges and most of our departments. We also have several departments located in the city centre at the historic King's Manor.

In recent years, our £750m campus expansion has seen the opening of seven new buildings, increasing our capacity for student numbers and providing more world-class facilities for the 21st century. Sustainability plays a key role in this ambitious development.