Study at York and you'll graduate with more than a qualification. You'll be immersed in knowledge and opportunities that will encourage you to grow and succeed. You’ll explore big ideas and be encouraged to think differently by academics whose research is changing the world.
HISTORY of the University of York
The University of York is 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 from over 150 countries. The diverse community fosters a sense of belonging and operates at the highest academic and ethical standards.
LIFE ON CAMPUS
At York, the beautiful parkland campus provides everything you need to make the most of your university experience.
You will join one of the University's eleven colleges. These small, distinct communities will become your home from home. Your college will provide you with a network of support, friendship, facilities, and a full calendar of events and activities to help you settle in.
It’s important to unwind during your studies. Whatever you’re interested in, you’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 you can pick up your groceries and essentials.
STUDENT SUPPORT AT the University of York
The support network is there if you need it and offers dedicated services for international students. They will help you settle in through a range of orientation events and support including a Manchester Airport collection service, a Welcome Week and immigration advice. You can also get to know others through the student-run International Students’ Association.
Each college has a wellbeing team of staff and students. They will welcome and support you and help you make the most of college and university life. An academic supervisor will support you through your studies, meeting regularly to advise you on your academic progress and personal development.
The Student Hub is the first point of contact for support and advice. The Student Support and Advice Team can help with money management, housing advice, academic progress and more. The University also has Open Door, a team of mental health professionals providing support to students, whilst their Disability Advisers offer support, advice and guidance to students with a diagnosed disability.
University of York FACILITIES
The main university Library on Campus West consists of the Morrell, the Fairhurst and the Burton, home to well over 1,000 single-and-group study spaces across our sites. These are divided into zones for different studying styles, with a blended approach of bookable and non-bookable spaces.
The School of Arts and Creative Technologies offers an exciting range of industry-standard facilities, venues, performance spaces, equipment, rehearsal and practice spaces for you to explore your creativity and hone your skills. The University boasts three HD TV studios, a scenic stage professional theatre, three Mac-based media labs and a digital cinema.
The York Law School is home to a mock courtroom giving students the opportunity to practice their legal arguments in a realistic setting. The Baroness Hale Legal Clinic provides a unique learning experience by working with ‘live’ clients who have real problems or issues. Students can take the Clinic as an assessed elective module in their third year.
SPORTS AND SOCIETIES AT THE UNIVERSITY OF YORK
The University of York Students’ Union is here to help you make the most of life in York. Join student-run sport and social societies, attend a variety of events on campus, get welfare support when you need it and campaign on the issues that are important to you.
There are over 200 student-run societies and over 60 sports clubs for you to get involved in. You don’t have to be an expert or pro to join – it’s all about new experiences, making friends and having fun. The York Sport Village and York Sport Centre also provide a choice of excellent sports facilities.
ACCOMMODATION AT THE UNVERSITY OF YORK
All university accommodation is located on or very near campus and is centred around the eleven colleges. Each college has a welcoming, supportive community, so you will soon feel at home.
The University offers self-catering and catered options. Both include access to a shared kitchen. Catered accommodation provides breakfast and evening meals during term time Monday to Friday and is available for undergraduate students. Rooms have either an ensuite bathroom or a washbasin in the room with access to a shared bathroom.
As an international taught student, you will be prioritised for an offer of accommodation that is owned, managed or approved by the University.
INTERNATIONAL FOCUS
Internationalism is a core value for the University of York, with almost 5,000 international students from over 150 countries making up their global community. They have research and teaching collaborations in 51 countries including the York - Maastricht Partnership and City College Europe Campus in Greece. The University offers dedicated support for international students and an International Students’ Association, a student-led network specifically for international students.
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 Careers and Placements team offers a range of opportunities to enhance your career prospects. The unique York Strengths programme helps you to identify what you’re good at and enjoy most. The University offers networking opportunities at regular careers fairs and events as well as advice on part-time work, internships and Placement Years that fit in with your visa requirements. You can also get involved in volunteering to broaden your leadership and organisational skills.
The Placement Year programme is open to almost all courses at the University of York. Some departments have their own programme, often called a Year in Industry. Previous students have undertaken placements at companies such as L’Oreal, Unilever, Disney, the NHS and PwC.
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.
Ranked the sixth safest city in England and Wales (CUG 2023), York is one of the best places to live and visit in the UK. It has a wealth of activities and welcoming spaces for you 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.
York’s central location is perfect for exploring other UK and European cities. London is only two hours away by train and you can reach Edinburgh in two and a half hours. The beautiful Yorkshire countryside and coastline are also on the doorstep.
If you are interested in studying at York University, please contact one of our Across the Pond Advisors.