History, Affiliations and Rankings
Established in 1963, the University of York is an acclaimed member of the Russell Group, tackling global issues through its teaching and research. Nurturing independent minds and a strong collective spirit York empowers people from all backgrounds to flourish.
Since 1963, the institution's teaching and research excellence has resulted in high rankings and a first-class reputation globally. In the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2022, York ranked 24th in the UK and 19th overall in the Complete University Guide 2023. The University is also in the top 100 for Arts and Humanities and top 150 for Social Sciences (Times Higher Education World University Rankings, 2022). It also ranked 10th out of 155 higher education institutions for research impact in 2022 (The Times Higher Education Research Excellence Framework, 2022).
Infrastructure, Campuses and Courses
York’s beautiful parkland campus is located just outside York city center. It offers world-class learning spaces, award-winning sports facilities and a relaxing environment to live and learn. York is a vibrant, student-friendly city in the North of England. It is celebrated for its rich cultural history and recognised for its safety. York is also a great base from which students can explore the UK with brilliant rail and transport networks to major cities like London and Manchester.
The University of York is one of only a few universities in the UK to have a collegiate system. These small, distinct communities provide a home away from home for students. They also offer valuable support and organize events to help students create friends for life.
A York degree is recognised and respected all over the world. The University’s distinctive approach to teaching and learning will challenge you to think independently and encourage you to grow and excel in a supportive environment. York regularly reviews its courses to meet industry needs and make the most of its academics’ expertise and research. The University offers around 250 undergraduate, 250 postgraduate taught and 100 postgraduate research programmes, including courses in Archaeology, Science, Computer Science, Law, Management, Medicine, Mathematics, Languages, Arts, Philosophy, Psychology, and Sociology.
Accomplishments and Alumni
Over the years, York has made a name for itself. It is currently at the top of the Russell Group for academic support and ranked first in the Russell Group for overall satisfaction in several subjects: marketing, law, philosophy, mental health nursing, biology, biosciences, genetics and French (NSS, 2022).
As a University of Public Good, the institution was also ranked among the top 10 universities in the world for its collaborative work in helping the United Nations achieve its Sustainable Development Goals (Times Higher Education Impact Rankings, 2022). York was also nominated for two major University of the Year honours in the Times Higher Education Awards 2021 and The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2022.
The institution has over 130,000 alumni across more than 180 countries. Some notable names include Jung Chang - writer; Greg Dyke - media executive, football administrator, journalist, and broadcaster; Anthony Horowitz - author and Harriet Harman - politician.
Student Diversity and Visiting Companies
York's student body consists of over 22,000 students from over 150 countries, and its University of Sanctuary status reflects this culture of belonging. The University provides a safe space for refugees, asylum seekers and others forced to migrate, offering continued support to everyone who joins its diverse and inclusive community. York is also committed to Athena SWAN, promoting gender equality and equal opportunity for all.
Students can access tailored support and advice to build a carefully crafted career journey. Through a well-thought-out curriculum, training programmes, internships, enterprise support and career fairs, the University is there every step of the way. York has an excellent success rate with 93% of York graduates entering work or further study within 15 months of graduating (HESA Graduate Outcomes Survey 2018/19, UK graduates). The University also has strong connections with some of the biggest global recruiters like Aviva, Aldi, Deloitte, IBM and Santander.
