University of Lancashire

The University of Lancashire, with roots going back to 1828, is a multi-campus, international university leading the way in modern postgraduate learning and helping people seize every opportunity to flourish in education, at work and for life.

The university’s main campus is located in Preston, Lancashire – a small yet thriving city which was recently named the best city in the north west of England to live and work (Demos-PwC Good Growth for Cities Index, 2024).

In recent years the university has invested millions in transforming its Preston Campus to provide all students with an exceptional experience. According to the Center for World University Rankings, the university is one of the top 7% of universities in the world (CWUR, 2025).

In 2025 it was awarded the maximum Five QS Stars (excellent) in the five key categories of teaching, employability, inclusiveness, internationalisation, and facilities.

Where is University of Lancashire and what’s the setting like?

The University of Lancashire’s main campus is in the centre of Preston, at the heart of beautiful Lancashire, and it’s the ideal student city. The campus is within walking distance of the city-centre but still well-connected enough to enjoy short journeys to Manchester or Liverpool, or further afield to the Lake District and Scotland. Down-to-earth, multicultural and welcoming with loads of character, Preston is small enough to feel safe and friendly but large enough that staff and students happily call it home.

What are the standout course offerings at University of Lancashire?

There are 10 academic schools across the university, offering postgraduate courses in everything from business to health sciences, engineering and performing arts. Students can enjoy a wide range of qualification options, all of which are considered an excellent gateway to further career opportunities.

The University of Lancashire has a long tradition of excellence and is known for its strengths in areas like forensic science, journalism, fashion and the creative arts. Its British Sign Language (BSL) and Deaf Studies programmes have run for over 30 years, with around 60% of the UK’s BSL/English interpreters trained at the University of Lancashire.

What are the entry requirements and fees?

The university offers a generous alumni loyalty discount. Students who gained their undergraduate degree at the University of Lancashire may be eligible for a 20% reduction on postgraduate tuition fees. This offer is only available to UK students.

There are a range of postgraduate-specific bursaries and scholarships to support students during their studies.

Entry requirements vary from course to course, and students are advised to make themselves familiar with their chosen subject’s requirements as soon as possible to ensure they can provide the necessary documentation.

What is student life like at University of Lancashire?

There’s always something going on in Preston - from cinemas, bowling and escape rooms to live football at Deepdale Stadium, home of Preston North End. At night, the city lights up. Whether it’s laid-back pubs, buzzing nightclubs, or cool cocktail bars, or for those who prefer no alcohol, there are also lots of late-night cafés, dessert bars and live music venues to visit.

There are also beautiful green spaces to relax in, including the charming Georgian setting of Winckley Square and the tranquil surroundings of Avenham and Miller Parks, perfect for a stroll and fresh air on the banks of the River Ribble.

What facilities does University of Lancashire offer?

All the university’s accommodation is conveniently located close to the campus, and as well as on-campus cafes and coffee bars, there are social spaces where students can heat up and eat their own meals.

In addition, facilities include:

• Crime Scene Simulation and Forensic Labs
• Clinical Skills Labs and Surgical Suites for veterinary, medical, nursing and healthcare training
• The Engineering Innovation Centre (EIC) with flight simulators, manufacturing tools, group workspaces and live projects
• The Media Factory with professional TV and radio studios, editing suites and a full theatre
• Custom Moot Courtrooms for trial practice and advocacy
• Specialist Art and Design Studios with exhibition areas
• Sports Arena with a FIFA 2-star pitch, tennis courts and athletics track
• On campus Sports Centre for sports science and fitness
• Simulation Centre for Fire and Rescue Services, offering realistic emergency training
• 5-storey library, open 24/7
• On campus health centre and pharmacy
• Dental Clinic and Eye Clinic run by postgraduate students.

How does University of Lancashire support your career?

If students are interested in establishing their own start-up company, they can access expert business advice, mentoring and incubation facilities through the university’s Propeller service, which will help them transform their ideas into reality, by offering help with planning, funding and development. Open to all, it links students with local businesses, runs skills workshops and gives personal support and online training.

In addition, the university offers lifelong careers support to graduates through its alumni network, as well as employment and volunteering opportunities during their study. All students have access to the services at CareerEDGE, including CV writing, interview preparation, careers events and workshops.

What's more, The University has impressive industry links with over 1000 employers, providing plenty of work experience opportunities for students.

What do students say about University of Lancashire?

Students can hear direct from previous students on our website.

How do you apply to University of Lancashire?

Once you have found the postgraduate degree course you’re interested, you can apply online via our Apply pages

What else should you know about University of Lancashire?

The University’s research aims to create positive outcomes and insights that are incorporated into its teaching. Many academics work with leading organisations like NASA, the NHS and the United Nations. A large proportion of our research outputs (72%) are rated as ‘outstanding’ or ‘very considerable’ in terms of impact (REF 2021 Submissions, renewing 2029). This includes projects focused on crime prevention, offering advice on firefighter health in the UK and improving maternity care worldwide, demonstrating a strong commitment to global progress and excellence.

A research degree is especially useful for those who want a career in academia. Students are supported by experienced supervisors and may have the chance to do fieldwork in the UK or abroad. These degrees require students to work on their own and as part of a team, aiming to create new knowledge in their subject.