University of Chester

University of Chester is a forward-thinking modern university rooted in the rich heritage of one of the UK’s most historic cities. Established in 1839, the University is recognised as the fifth oldest higher education institution in England, preceded only by the universities of Oxford, Cambridge, Durham, and London.

Originally founded as a Church of England teacher training college by local Anglicans, including future British Prime Minister William Gladstone, it became the first dedicated teacher training college in the United Kingdom. Since gaining full university status in 2005, the University has expanded significantly and now delivers more than 200 course combinations across a broad range of academic disciplines. With over 186 years of academic excellence, the University of Chester combines tradition with innovation to create a supportive and career-focused learning environment. The University is home to a diverse student community of around 15,000 students representing more than 130 countries, offering international students a welcoming, vibrant, and safe place to study in the UK.



The University operates across several specialist campuses and centres located throughout Chester and the wider region, including Exton Park, Creative Campus, Kingsway, Queen’s Park, Wheeler, Gateway House, Bache Hall, The Hammond, and a network of University Centres focused on professional skills development. Its academic structure is organised into three major faculties: the Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences; the Faculty of Health, Medicine and Society; and the Faculty of Science, Business and Enterprise. This structure encourages collaboration between disciplines while providing students with industry-relevant knowledge and practical experience. Research excellence is another defining strength of the University. More than half of its research was rated world-leading or internationally excellent in the Research Excellence Framework (2021), supporting the development of three Research Knowledge Exchange Institutes (RKEIs). The University also offers over 200 undergraduate, postgraduate, and research degree programmes taught at modern campuses in Chester, Shrewsbury, and Warrington.

Known for its inclusive atmosphere and outstanding student experience, the University ranked 1st place UK University for International Study in the WhatUni Student Choice Awards 2025 and achieved 1st place in the UK for student support in the WhatUni Student Choice Awards 2024. A dedicated student services team and a range of automatically considered scholarships further strengthen the University’s reputation as an accessible and supportive destination for higher education.

University of Chester is recognised for delivering outstanding student support through a comprehensive range of academic, well-being, career, and international services designed to help students succeed both personally and professionally. With dedicated support teams across its campuses, the University ensures that every student has access to expert guidance, practical assistance, and a welcoming environment throughout their academic journey.

Student well-being is a major priority at the University of Chester. The Wellbeing and Mental Health Services provide professional support for students experiencing stress, anxiety, low mood, or other personal challenges during their studies. Students can access confidential guidance and mental health support whenever needed, helping them maintain a healthy balance between academic and personal life. In addition, the Student Counselling service offers students the opportunity to speak with qualified professionals about issues affecting their university experience, while also helping them develop coping strategies and resilience.

The University’s Disability and Inclusion team works closely with students and academic departments to ensure inclusive learning opportunities for disabled students. Through confidential advice, tailored guidance, and personalised support plans, the University enables students to fully participate in university life and achieve their academic potential.

Academic development is supported through the Academic Skills (ASk) team, which helps students strengthen essential study skills such as research, communication, critical thinking, and assignment preparation. These skills are valuable not only for academic success but also for long-term career development. Students also benefit from extensive library resources, including more than 200,000 books, journals, and a wide range of electronic learning materials covering multiple subject areas.

Career preparation is another key strength of the University of Chester. The Careers and Employability Service provides one-to-one career guidance, CV and application support, interview preparation, and career planning throughout a student’s studies and after graduation. The University’s Chester Future Skills Curriculum focuses on applied learning and career readiness, ensuring courses remain relevant to industry needs. Many undergraduate programmes include work-based learning modules and professional placements in the UK or overseas, while selected business courses offer a four-year degree option with a 12-month placement year.

International students receive additional support through the International Arrivals team, which offers airport pickup services, visa guidance, help opening UK bank accounts, and a tailored Welcome Programme. Combined with award-winning Student Futures Support and Development services, the University creates a supportive, inclusive, and career-focused environment where students can confidently prepare for future success.

University of Chester continues to strengthen its reputation as a respected UK institution through consistent achievements in national and international university rankings. Its strong performance across teaching quality, student experience, employability, and research demonstrates the University’s commitment to academic excellence and career-focused education.

In the latest national league tables, the University of Chester was ranked 70th in the UK in The Guardian University Guide 2026 and 74th in The Complete University Guide 2026. The University also secured 109th position in The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026, highlighting its growing recognition across the UK higher education sector. Internationally, the University was placed in the 1501+ category in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026 and ranked within the 601–650 band in the QS Europe University Rankings 2026. In addition, Chester achieved a QS Sustainability Ranking of =977 in 2026, reflecting its ongoing focus on sustainable development and responsible education.

The University’s student experience and international reputation have also received significant recognition. It was ranked 1st place UK University for International Study in the WhatUni Student Choice Awards 2025, underlining its supportive environment and strong satisfaction levels among international students. Chester was also recognised as 1st in the North West for Career Prospects in the Guardian University Guide 2024, while StudentCrowd named Chester among the Top 20 Best UK Student Cities in 2023.

The University’s academic and professional strengths extend to its Business School, which received the prestigious Business School of the Year title at both the 2024 THE Awards and the North Educate Awards 2024. Graduate outcomes are another major success, with the University reporting approximately 96.3% graduate employability, demonstrating the effectiveness of its practical learning approach and career preparation.

Research quality at Chester has improved significantly in recent years. According to the Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021, 51% of the University’s research was rated world-leading or internationally excellent, compared to 31% in 2014. This substantial progress highlights the University’s expanding research influence and its commitment to delivering high-quality teaching informed by impactful academic research.

University of Chester offers a student life experience that is inclusive, vibrant, and highly supportive, creating an environment where students can thrive academically, socially, and personally. Located in one of the UK’s most historic and picturesque cities, the University combines modern student facilities with the charm, culture, and community atmosphere of Chester, giving students an unforgettable university experience both on and off campus.

Student life at Chester is centred around building strong connections and creating opportunities for personal growth. The Chester Students’ Union plays a major role in campus life, offering students the chance to join a wide variety of societies, sports clubs, campaigns, and volunteering projects. With more than 100 sports teams and student societies available, students can explore interests ranging from football, netball, and fitness activities to drama, photography, and other specialist clubs. Students also have the opportunity to create their own societies, encouraging creativity, leadership, and community engagement.

The University strongly promotes an active and healthy lifestyle through its sports and recreation facilities. Students have access to modern sports centres, fitness facilities, and organised activities that support physical wellbeing alongside academic success. Whether students are interested in competitive sports, recreational exercise, or simply maintaining a healthy lifestyle, the University encourages participation and teamwork across all levels of experience.

Beyond campus life, Chester itself provides an outstanding student environment. The city is known for its historic architecture, cultural attractions, green spaces, and welcoming atmosphere. Students can enjoy relaxing walks by the River Dee, explore Chester’s famous Roman walls, visit independent cafés and shops, or take part in local festivals and community events throughout the year. The city offers a balance between lively student activities and a safe, comfortable place to live and study.

The University of Chester is also recognised for its strong sense of community and student support. Students benefit from extensive wellbeing services, mental health support, academic guidance, and career development assistance throughout their studies. Dedicated support teams help students settle into university life while providing advice and resources whenever needed.

Modern study spaces, libraries, cafés, and social areas across the campuses create a comfortable and engaging learning environment where students can study, relax, and connect with others. Combined with practical learning opportunities, active student communities, and excellent support services, the University of Chester delivers a well-rounded student experience designed to help students achieve both academic success and personal fulfilment.

University of Chester offers a wide range of comfortable, affordable, and student-friendly accommodation designed to help students feel at home from the moment they arrive. Most accommodation is located either on campus or within walking distance of the University’s Exton Park site, allowing students easy access to academic buildings, libraries, social spaces, and city attractions. The University also provides an accommodation guarantee for international students who meet the application deadline, giving added confidence and security when planning to study in the UK.

Students can choose from a variety of accommodation styles, including traditional Victorian houses, modern purpose-built residences, en-suite rooms, studio apartments, and shared housing options. Accommodation is available on full-board, semi-catered, and self-catered arrangements, allowing students to select a living style that matches their budget and lifestyle preferences. All rooms are fully furnished and include utilities such as Wi-Fi, heating, and electricity, creating a convenient and stress-free living environment.

Grosvenor House, located in the centre of Exton Park, provides self-catered studio accommodation for 202 students, along with communal facilities and a laundrette. Student Roost The Towpath offers accommodation beside the canal, while Student Roost Tramways provides stylish modern housing in Chester city centre. Tudor Place features spacious en-suite rooms and studios less than ten minutes from both the University and city centre, while Granary Studios offers modern studio accommodation close to the University, Chester train station, and Grosvenor Shopping Centre.

The University also offers a variety of residences around Exton Park, including Sumner House, Powys Court, Church College Close, Hollybank Court, John Douglas Court, Chichester House, and 37 Liverpool Road. Full-board accommodation is available at Astbury House, Fisher House, and Gladstone House, all located within the grounds of Exton Park. Additional housing options include Cheyney Road, Bridge St Row, Hayes Park, Arden Court, and the newly refurbished John Milton Hall, which offers self-catered en-suite rooms for more than 60 students from 2025 onwards.

For postgraduate students, Bache Hall provides a quieter living environment close to the Countess of Chester Hospital. Across all accommodation options, students benefit from shared social spaces that encourage community living, friendships, and student interaction. The University of Chester also supports students seeking private accommodation, ensuring every student has access to safe, secure, and high-quality housing throughout their studies. With its combination of convenience, affordability, and supportive community atmosphere, Chester accommodation provides an excellent foundation for student life in the UK.