STUDY AT UNIVERSITY OF YORK
Find your place at York and graduate with more than a qualification. A member of the prestigious Russell Group, the University of York is a globally celebrated research-intensive university located in one of England’s most historic cities. A York degree is recognised and respected all over the world.
HISTORY OF UNIVERSITY OF YORK
The University of York exists as a University for Public Good. Their founding values of excellence, equality and opportunity for all are as true today as they were when they opened their doors to 230 students in 1963.
Today the University is home to more than 20,000 students and 5,000 staff. Their diverse community fosters a sense of belonging and operates at the highest academic and ethical standards.
In times of uncertainty and global unrest, the achievements of their staff and students continue to inspire and have a positive impact on local, national, and global scales.
SPECIALIST AREAS AT UNIVERSITY OF YORK
As a high-performing member of the Russell Group, the University of York's ground-breaking research underpins teaching, challenging students to dream big, think critically and change the world.
Throughout their studies, students learn from active researchers who are conducting work on some of the most important issues in current times. York’s research feeds directly into its teaching and course content, so students benefit from their tutors' academic insights and professional expertise.
At York, students not only become specialists in their field but also develop vital skills ready for the world of work. Through group work and independent study, York students develop the problem-solving, analytical, team working, and leadership skills needed to thrive in their chosen career. York’s close links with industry, governments, and international organisations ensure that graduates have the skills they need.
LIFE ON CAMPUS
At the University of York, the beautiful parkland campus provides everything students need to make the most of their university experience.
As York is a collegiate University, all new students become members of one of the University's 11 colleges. These small, distinct communities become students’ homes from homes. Colleges provide students with a network of support, friendship, facilities, and a full calendar of events and activities to help them settle in.
Whatever students are interested in, they’ll find something to enjoy. The campus boasts its very own student-run theatre, a whole host of student societies dedicated to music, dance, drama and comedy, and a rich programme of free open lectures and inspirational events such as YorkTalks.
The campus is packed with places to eat and drink, catering for a diverse range of dietary requirements. There is also access to convenience stores, where students can pick up their groceries and essentials.
STUDENT SUPPORT AT UNIVERSITY OF YORK
The International Student Support Team offers dedicated services for international students, including visa advice, English language support and a free collection service from Manchester Airport. At the start of Semester 1, they’ll run a range of orientation events to help students settle in, support them with essential tasks like opening a UK bank account, and meet other international students.
International students can access general student support too, either online or in-person at the Student Hub. Support available includes:
- Academic and study skills
- Careers and employability
- Disability and learning needs
- Equality and inclusivity
- Health and wellbeing
- Money and finance
- Accommodation
- Faith and religion
Students can also access mental-health support at York through student wellbeing officers, or through the Open-Door service, which employs a team of mental-health practitioners. With this service, students can quickly access free and professional counselling services if they need them.
When students enrol at York, they are appointed as an academic personal supervisor for the duration of their studies. Personal supervisors can offer tailored support across both academic and pastoral matters, as well as bespoke guidance on personal development, and signposting to external resources. Students can also make use of York Students’ Union, their college’s wellbeing team and student communities to meet others for peer support.
The University of York offers a number of scholarships for international students each year. Scholarships are typically awarded based on exceptional academic achievement, the candidate’s background or personal circumstances, or to applicants studying particular subjects. Please contact Across the Pond for further details on financial support.
UNIVERSITY OF YORK FACILITIES
At York, students will benefit from top-of-the-range facilities, equipment and resources, which boost learning and add opportunities for practical experience and specialist insights.
In addition to standard seminar rooms and lecture theatres, specialised teaching spaces include: purpose-built laboratories, a mock courtroom, performance spaces, TV and production studios, a simulated hospital ward, and more.
The University’s main library offers an extensive selection of physical books, journals, archives, resources and study areas, in addition to an expansive online library. The campus is also filled with modern sporting facilities, social spaces, and over 20 places to eat, drink, and shop.
SPORTS AND SOCIETIES AT UNIVERSITY OF YORK
The University of York Students’ Union is run by students, for students, and acts as a voice for the student community, ensuring important matters and concerns are heard by the University. It also manages an active schedule of events, provides dedicated support and advice, and runs clubs and societies.
Students can choose from hundreds of student societies and sports clubs at the University of York, all run by York Students’ Union.
Societies cover all areas of interest, including:
- Academic and education
- Arts, music and performance
- Faith, culture and international
- Political and campaigning
- Media and gaming
Students can also set up a new society, with support from York Students’ Union, if they feel something is missing.
ACCOMMODATION AT UNIVERSITY OF YORK
The University of York offers a range of accommodation options conveniently located on or close to campus, with a choice of lengths available for added convenience. Since the University has a collegiate system, rooms are allocated through its 11 colleges. Students can choose between catered or self-catered, and ensuite or shared bathroom. All room types include access to a shared kitchen.
There are also many reputable private accommodation options near campus, and overnight accommodation available to commuting students. If students decide to live off campus, they’ll still be allocated a college for the duration of their studies, so they can access the extra support and activities colleges provide.
INTERNATIONAL FOCUS
With over 4,000 international students from more than 140 different countries, students join a diverse and inclusive community at York. The University also has multiple international research and teaching collaborations, such as the University of York Mumbai campus, the University of York Europe campus in Greece, and the York — Maastricht Partnership.
The University of York Students’ Union offers lots of student-led international and cultural societies, including the International Students’ Network, so students are able to stay in touch with their home culture and meet their people at York.
STUDY ABROAD OPPORTUNITIES AND INTERNSHIPS
The University has opportunities around the world available to York students. Through links with top universities and employers all over the world, you can study, take part in an internship, or have an international summer opportunity. Where you can go may depend on your course of study at York.
EMPLOYABILITY AND CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
The University of York’s careers service offers extensive employability support to all students and alumni, for life. Students can make 1:1 appointments with careers advisors, attend regular careers fairs, use the University’s careers platform, ‘Handshake’, or find self-help resources online. Students will be supported across all areas of career development, including:
- Career mapping and skills development
- Writing job applications, CVs, cover letters
- Mock interviews
- Psychometric test practice and preparation
- Support with finding part-time work whilst studying and with securing graduate roles
- Placement years and internships
- Professional development
- Careers and networking events
- Employability programmes (like York Strengths) and careers workshops
- Exploring opportunities to work and study abroad
- Exploring further study options
Additionally, international undergraduate students and firm offer holders enjoy free access to Student Circus—a careers platform designed especially for international students. Students can explore job listings, immigration advice, a jobseeker’s toolkit, and online learning resources — all before they even enrol.
York’s careers support doesn’t end after graduation either. Through their York for Life programme, University of York alumni can access events, courses, mentors and tailored advice, for life.
STUDY IN YORK
York is a contemporary, student-friendly city, renowned for its rich history and heritage. With a population of over 200,000, it’s a buzzing city that’s big enough to feel vibrant and small enough to feel like home.
From quirky pubs to popular clubs, York has a diverse mix of venues that showcase aspiring musicians and established acts. The city is also home to a range of museums and galleries, as well as two theatres and a choice of cinemas.
York is one of the best places to live and visit in the UK. It has a wealth of activities and welcoming spaces for students to enjoy. Have a picnic in the Museum Gardens or stroll around Rowntree Park, with its play parks and café, and enjoy fantastic views of York Minster from Dean’s Park. Find out more about York by downloading the University of York’s Visit UoY app to take an in-person or virtual tour of the city.
York’s central location is perfect for exploring other UK and European cities. London is only two hours away by train, and it takes two and a half hours to get to Edinburgh. The beautiful Yorkshire countryside and coastline are also on the doorstep.
WHY STUDY AT THE UNIVERSITY OF YORK
No matter where you are from, or what you would like to do when you graduate, the York experience will challenge, inspire, develop and support you. Through a combination of excellent teaching, a rich and varied campus life, and a cultured city, you'll have the experience of a lifetime.