University of Central Lancashire

Founded in 1828 as the Institution for the Diffusion of Knowledge, the University of Lancashire has grown into one of the UK’s largest and most internationally connected modern universities. Officially established as the University of Central Lancashire in 1992, the institution now stands as a leading multi-campus university with a strong reputation for academic excellence, innovation, sustainability, and career-focused education.

The University proudly transitioned from the University of Central Lancashire to the University of Lancashire in 2024, reflecting its strong Lancashire heritage and nearly 200 years of academic excellence.

With a thriving community of nearly 42,000 students and staff from more than 100 countries, the University offers a truly global learning environment where students from diverse backgrounds can study, connect, and succeed. The University’s welcoming and supportive culture reflects its proud Lancashire spirit, helping students quickly feel at home while benefiting from a vibrant and inclusive campus experience.

The University has expanded significantly from its origins in Preston and now operates campuses in Burnley, Westlakes, London, and Cyprus, where it established the first British university campus in Cyprus in 2012. Its Preston Campus remains the heart of the institution and is home to over 27,000 students and staff. Located in one of the North West of England’s most multicultural cities, the campus provides students with an exciting environment to live, study, and build their future careers.

Academically, the University offers an extensive portfolio of more than 350 undergraduate programmes, over 200 postgraduate courses, and a wide range of Continuing Professional Development (CPD) opportunities designed to meet modern industry demands. Employability remains a major strength, with more than 68% of graduates achieving a First or 2:1 classification according to OfS 2023 data. The University also maintains strong partnerships with over 7,000 enterprises, NHS trusts, police constabularies, and global organisations, giving students valuable exposure to real-world professional environments.

Globally recognised for its impact, the University ranks among the top 7% of universities worldwide according to the Center for World University Rankings 2024. Its research teams collaborate with internationally respected organisations including the United Nations, the World Health Organisation, NASA, and the European Space Agency. The University has also invested heavily in its future through a £200 million campus transformation project. Major developments include the modern Student Centre, the £35 million Engineering Innovation Centre, and the upcoming Veterinary School, which will become Lancashire’s first veterinary school and only the 11th in the UK.

Sustainability and entrepreneurship are also central to the University’s identity. It is recognised as a Gold Tier University in the Green Universities Report 2023, achieved a 2:1 classification in the People & Planet University Green League 2023/24, and is one of only 13 universities worldwide to hold Bronze Carbon Literate Organisation status. Alongside academic achievement, the University strongly supports innovation and student-led businesses through its renowned Propeller enterprise hub, helping students develop entrepreneurial skills that create lasting impact across industries worldwide.

University of Lancashire is committed to delivering outstanding student support services that help students succeed academically, professionally, and personally. From mental health and wellbeing support to careers guidance and academic assistance, the University provides a complete support network designed to help every student thrive throughout their university journey.

At the centre of student life is the modern Student Centre, located on the Preston Campus. This dedicated hub brings together a wide range of support services under one roof, including student advice, wellbeing support, social spaces, cafés, and meeting areas. The Student Centre offers students a welcoming environment where they can access help, meet friends, relax, and manage daily university life with ease.

Mental health and wellbeing remain a major priority at the University. Students have access to daily weekday drop-in sessions without appointments, free professional counselling services, Mental Health and Wellbeing Advisors, wellbeing workshops, specialist referrals, and an extensive Student Wellbeing Toolkit. The University also provides the Oasis Faith and Spirituality Centre, supporting students from all backgrounds and beliefs. Its commitment to student wellbeing has earned national recognition, ranking third in the UK for mental health support in the HUMEN University Mental Health League Table 2022. The University also received the prestigious University Mental Health Charter Award for its continuous efforts to improve student wellbeing.

The counselling team delivers high-quality, solution-focused support for a wide range of personal and academic challenges. Students can receive help with anxiety, homesickness, loneliness, stress, relationships, insomnia, family concerns, cultural adjustment, and other issues affecting university life.

Academic support services are equally comprehensive. Through workshops, one-to-one tutorials, peer support, and online learning resources, students can strengthen their academic writing, referencing, presentation, reflective writing, digital skills, and time management. The Achieve+ programme further enhances personal, social, and professional development, ensuring students are fully prepared for academic success and future employment.

The University’s Careers Team provides lifelong careers support for both students and graduates. Services include one-to-one career guidance, CV and cover letter support, interview preparation, career planning, job application advice, and practice interviews available both online and in person. Students also benefit from careers fairs, employer networking opportunities, and digital career platforms such as CareerEDGE and Handshake. More than 240 employers attended University careers fairs last year, while 99% of students said they would recommend the careers service to others. Additionally, 67% of graduates entered highly skilled employment or further study within 15 months of graduation.

International students also receive extensive support to help them settle into university life smoothly. Services include free airport pickup, orientation programmes, free English language support during the first year, peer buddy systems, and access to the International Students Society. International students can also remain in university accommodation during holidays, providing additional comfort, stability, and convenience throughout their studies.

Through its student-centred approach, the University of Lancashire creates a welcoming, inclusive, and supportive environment where students are empowered to achieve their full potential.

The University of Lancashire continues to strengthen its reputation as a respected modern university through strong national and international rankings, impactful research, and recognition for innovation and sustainability. The University is consistently ranked among the top 100 universities in the UK and within the top 1000 universities globally, reflecting its growing influence in higher education and research.

In the Complete University Guide Ranking 2026, the University achieved 86th position in the UK, while the Guardian University Guide Ranking 2026 placed it 98th nationally. The University also performed strongly in the Times Higher Education UK Ranking 2026, securing 35th place in the UK. Globally, the institution was ranked within the 1001–1200 band in both the QS World University Rankings and the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026.

The University’s global academic standing is further highlighted through its placement in the 901–1000 range in the Academic Ranking of World Universities. It was also ranked 1514th in the Best Global Universities rankings. In addition, the University was recognised among the top 7% of universities worldwide by the Centre for World University Rankings, demonstrating its growing international presence and academic credibility. Research excellence is one of the University’s major strengths. In the UK Research Excellence Framework (REF), 74% of its research was rated as world-leading or internationally excellent. The University submitted 19 subject areas for assessment and achieved particularly strong results in disciplines such as Physics, Social Work, Social Policy, and Allied Health. Social Work and Social Policy stood out with 83% of research rated at the highest levels, highlighting the University’s contribution to impactful research and policy development.

Several healthcare-related disciplines also demonstrated outstanding performance. Allied Health Professions, Dentistry, Nursing, and Pharmacy achieved 79% of research at the 4-star and 3-star level, reinforcing the University’s reputation for high-quality professional education and applied research. Modern Languages and Linguistics achieved 75% at 4-star impact level, while Philosophy ranked 8th nationally in its first REF submission, with 50% of research classified as world-leading.

The University’s achievements extend beyond academics and research. It was named Edufuturists University of the Year 2023 in recognition of its innovative and forward-thinking approach to education. The institution was also identified as the most affordable university in the UK by The Times in 2023, offering students one of the lowest living costs in the country.

Sustainability is another area where the University excels. It earned Gold Tier status in the Green Universities Report 2023 and retained a 2:1 classification in the People & Planet University Green League 2023/24. The University also ranked first in the North West for water reduction and became one of only 13 universities worldwide to achieve Bronze Carbon Literate Organisation status.

These achievements demonstrate the University of Lancashire’s continued progress as a globally connected, research-driven, and student-focused institution committed to academic quality, innovation, sustainability, and graduate success.

Student life at the University of Lancashire offers an exciting balance of academic opportunity, social experiences, sport, culture, and city living. Located in Preston, a vibrant and multicultural city in the North West of England, the University provides students with a welcoming environment where they can meet new people, explore different cultures, and enjoy a fulfilling university experience. Preston was named the best city in the North West in the Good Growth Index 2023, highlighting its strong quality of life and appeal for students.

The University hosts a wide variety of social events, student clubs, and activities throughout the year, helping students build friendships and become part of a lively campus community. Whether students enjoy sport, music, food, culture, or nightlife, Preston offers something for everyone.

Preston is well known for its diverse food scene. Students can enjoy cuisines from around the world at both independent restaurants and popular high street chains. Well-known local favourites include Angelo’s Italian Restaurant for pizzas and pasta, Coco’s Soul Food for Caribbean cuisine, Kimji’s Korean Restaurant, and Mowgli’s Indian Street Food, known for its vibrant atmosphere and authentic dishes. The city’s food culture reflects Preston’s multicultural character and gives students countless dining experiences within easy reach of the city centre.

The nightlife in Preston is equally energetic and affordable. Students can enjoy cocktail bars, clubs, entertainment venues, and social spaces across the city. Popular venues include All Hopes No Promises, Baker Street, Baluga, and The Warehouse, which offers multiple music floors featuring dance, indie, and R&B music. Students looking for entertainment beyond nightlife can visit Level Preston for bowling, crazy golf, laser tag, and darts.

Sport and fitness play a major role in student life at the University. The Sir Tom Finney Sports Centre is a modern multi-million-pound indoor sports facility located at the centre of the Preston Campus. Students have access to a fully equipped gym, sports clubs, fitness classes, and indoor courts. The University’s sports arena also provides excellent outdoor facilities, including two 3G pitches, a hockey pitch, and a resurfaced athletics track. Students can participate in football, rugby, athletics, tennis, hockey, netball, cycling, and many other activities regardless of experience level.

Shopping in Preston is convenient and student-friendly. Fishergate and the city centre offer major high street brands including JD Sports, Next, Office, H&M, River Island, Primark, TK Maxx, and Marks & Spencer. Students interested in sustainable fashion can also explore vintage shops and independent retailers throughout the city.

Preston also provides a strong cultural and outdoor lifestyle. The Harris Museum and Art Gallery, Preston Playhouse, and Preston Minster offer exhibitions, performances, discussions, and community events throughout the year. Students can relax in green spaces such as Avenham Park, Moor Park, and Winckley Square or visit Brockholes Nature Reserve to enjoy nature close to the city centre.

The city’s excellent transport links make exploring the UK simple and convenient. Students can travel to Manchester, Liverpool, or Blackpool in under an hour by train, while London and Glasgow are just over two hours away. With its combination of affordability, entertainment, culture, sport, and connectivity, the University of Lancashire provides students with a dynamic and rewarding student lifestyle.

The University of Lancashire provides comfortable, modern, and affordable student accommodation designed to help students feel safe, supported, and connected from the very beginning of their university journey. The University guarantees a room in on-campus halls of residence for all new full-time students studying at the Preston Campus, giving students peace of mind before they arrive in the UK.

Living on campus allows students to become part of a welcoming and vibrant student community. From the moment students move in, they can take part in social events and activities organised within the halls, helping them settle in quickly and make new friends. The friendly on-site Residences Team is always available to provide support and guidance, creating a safe and inclusive environment for all residents.

All University accommodation is conveniently located within walking distance of teaching buildings, lecture theatres, libraries, and study spaces, making daily student life easier and more convenient. Students also benefit from excellent facilities, modern living spaces, and easy access to campus services.

The University offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and lifestyle preferences. Students can choose between shared flats, self-contained apartments, and twin accommodation. Many rooms are en-suite, and accommodation buildings are supported by 24-hour security to ensure student safety and well-being.

At the Preston Campus, several residence halls provide different styles of accommodation. Derwent Hall, located north of the campus, offers economy standard accommodation with 16 flats housing between five and six students. Douglas Hall also sits north of campus and includes seven flats with up to six students in each flat. Pendle Hall provides self-contained and twin accommodation across 50 flats, accommodating one to two students per flat, with one larger three-bedroom flat available.

Ribble Hall offers both economy and premium accommodation options. The economy section includes 15 flats housing five to six students, while the premium section features 20 flats with four to five students in each flat. Roeburn Hall is situated in a quieter area close to lecture theatres and includes 60 flats accommodating up to seven students.

Students studying at Burnley Campus can stay at Sandygate Halls, located approximately one minute from Victoria Mill via a footbridge and around ten minutes from Princess Way. The accommodation includes 29 flats with up to five students in each flat.

At the Westlakes Campus, Summergrove Hall provides 131 rooms in a beautiful setting only 15 minutes from lectures and seminars. Whitendale Hall is located just a few minutes from the Preston Campus Library and includes 37 flats accommodating up to five students.

For students who prefer off-campus living, the University’s accommodation team also assists in finding suitable private housing in and around Preston. Options include shared houses, studio apartments, and private rentals, ensuring students can choose accommodation that best matches their personal preferences and budget.

With supportive staff, modern facilities, excellent locations, and a strong sense of community, accommodation at the University of Lancashire offers students a comfortable and enriching place to live throughout their studies.