The University of Leicester is a leading research-intensive university known for its academic excellence, strong employability, and innovation. It is ranked among the top universities in the UK and globally, offering a vibrant student experience in the multicultural city of Leicester.
Key Facts
Founded: 1921 (gained university status in 1957)
Location: Leicester, East Midlands, UK – One of the most affordable student cities
Motto: "So that they may have life."
Ranking:
Top 30 in the UK (Complete University Guide)
Top 20 in the UK for Graduate Prospects (Times Higher Education)
Gold-rated in Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF)
Students: Over 20,000 students from 140+ countries
Notable Alumni: Sir David Attenborough (Naturalist), Dr. Maggie Aderin-Pocock (Scientist & BBC Presenter), Atifete Jahjaga (Former President of Kosovo)
Academic Structure
The university has three main colleges offering a variety of courses:
College of Science & Engineering – AI, Space Science, Engineering, Data Science
College of Life Sciences & Medicine – Medicine, Biomedical Science, Psychology, Genetics
College of Social Sciences, Arts & Humanities – Business, Law, Media, International Relations
The University of Leicester is a top-ranked, research-intensive university with strong employability, excellent facilities, and an affordable student lifestyle. If you're looking for a prestigious degree with real-world career opportunities, Leicester is a great choice. Here’s why:
1. High Graduate Employability & Industry Connections
95% of graduates are in work or further study within six months
Strong industry links with NASA, BBC, Rolls-Royce, PwC, NHS, and IBM
Work placements, internships, and career support for students
2. World-Class Research & Teaching Excellence
Leicester scientists discovered DNA fingerprinting, a major breakthrough in science
Gold-rated Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) – high-quality education
Leading research in Space Science, Medicine, AI, and Business
3. Affordable & Student-Friendly City
Leicester is one of the most affordable cities in the UK for students
Lower accommodation and living costs compared to London and other major cities
A multicultural and welcoming environment with great student life
4. Top Courses in Science, Medicine, Business & Law
One of the UK’s best universities for Medicine, Biomedical Science & Psychology
Top-ranked for Business, Economics, and International Relations
Home to the UK’s largest Space Science department
5. Diverse & Inclusive Community
Over 20,000 students from 140+ countries – truly international
Strong student support services, including mental health, career advice, and academic help
Over 200 student societies & clubs, plus a great student union
6. Excellent Campus & Facilities
State-of-the-art labs, research centers, and digital learning spaces
£150 million investment in campus development, including student accommodation and libraries
Leicester Innovation Hub – supports students in entrepreneurship and startup projects
Why Choose the University of Leicester?
Highly Employable Graduates – 95% of graduates are in work or further study within 6 months
Home of DNA Discovery – Leicester scientists discovered DNA fingerprinting
World-Leading Research in Space Science, Medicine, and AI
Affordable Student City – Leicester is one of the cheapest cities to live in the UK
Diverse & Inclusive – A multicultural university with students from 140+ countries
Strong Business & Industry Links – Partnerships with Rolls-Royce, NASA, NHS, BBC, and PwC
Vibrant Student Life – Over 200 societies, clubs, and a great student union
