Lancaster University

Global reputation and research excellence

Lancaster is a top 10 UK university (Complete University Guide 2026) set on a 578‑acre parkland campus in north-west England. It is a research-led, campus-based university with an exceptional reputation that is recognised globally.

We’re proud to be joint 3^rd for research intensity in the Complete University Guide 2026. We’ve also been awarded 5 Stars for overall performance and research in the globally renowned QS World Ratings.

We’re home to a diverse, close-knit community of students and staff from over 120 countries. We’re proud to be one of a handful of collegiate universities in the UK, giving you support, a ready-made community, and a feeling of belonging from the moment you arrive.

What is Lancaster University known for?

99% of our overall research environment has been independently rated as ‘internationally excellent’ or ‘world leading’ in the latest Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021.

We’re one of the 30 most targeted universities by the UK’s leading graduate employers (the Graduate Market in 2026 report by High Fliers in association with The Times).

Sustainability is at the heart of Lancaster’s values – we’re joint 25^th in the UK and joint 80^th in the world in the QS World University Rankings: Sustainability.

Where is Lancaster University and what’s the setting like?

The historic city centre is just three miles from our campus. You’ll find an array of shops, cafes, bars, restaurants, entertainment venues and more, with something to suit every vibe. The city hosts a variety of cultural events and festivals throughout the year, so there’s always something going on.

Lancaster also has great transport links to the coast, countryside, and nearby cities. We're 30 minutes from the Lake District, one hour from Manchester, and 2.5 hours from London and Edinburgh by train.

What are the standout course offerings at Lancaster University?

Lancaster offers postgraduate taught and research degrees across four faculties:

• Faculty of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences
• Faculty of Health and Medicine
• Faculty of Science and Technology
• Lancaster University Management School

We also have several subjects that are ranked in the top 100 in the QS World University Subject Rankings 2025. These include Linguistics (3^rd), English Language and Literature (38^th), and Marketing (48^th).

How does Lancaster University support your career?

Lancaster students benefit from fantastic career prospects as well as careers support for life, even after you graduate. We’re also one of the top 30 most targeted universities by the UK’s leading graduate employers (The Graduate Market in 2026 report by High Fliers in association with The Times), and our global reputation means a degree from Lancaster will be recognised by employers around the world.

Your degree will equip you with transferable skills for your career, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities outside of your course to boost your employability. We can support you with finding the right path and achieving your goals.

What is student life like at Lancaster University?

We offer an excellent education, but life outside of your studies is just as important.

• Colleges and community - We’re proud to be one of only a handful of UK universities with a collegiate community. As a postgraduate student, you’ll join Graduate College, which will help you settle in, make long-lasting friendships, and provide support.
• Students’ Union - Lancaster University Students’ Union (LUSU) offers a range of support and hosts a varied calendar of social events throughout the year. This includes Roses – the annual intervarsity sporting competition against the University of York.
• Clubs and societies - There are over 200 clubs and societies at Lancaster, including sports clubs, academic societies, cultural and faith-based groups, and societies for a whole range of hobbies. Whatever your interests, passions, or beliefs, you’ll find your place at Lancaster.
• Accommodation - We have a range of high-quality accommodation located within Graduate College on campus, with options to suit many different preferences and budgets.
• Support and wellbeing - We offer a range of free specialist support services for students, focusing on academic success, health, wellbeing, belonging, and your university experience.

What facilities does Lancaster University offer?

Lancaster’s 578-acre parkland campus has everything you’ll need in one place

• Specialist learning facilities, from a mock court room to an ultra-low temperature lab
•  A multitude of study spaces, including a 24-hour (in term time) library
• Cafes, bars, restaurants and takeaways serving flavours from around the w
• Competition-standard sports facilities including a gym, swimming pool, and climbing wall
• Essentials like supermarkets, a pharmacy, and even a pre-school centre
• Plenty of green outdoor space to explore

What are the entry requirements and fees?

Entry requirements vary by course; check our website for more details.

If you don’t meet the entry requirements for your course, you could be eligible for one of our pathway programmes to help you build upon your current academic knowledge and/or English language skills.

Tuition fees vary based on fee status (home or international), course, and length/mode of study. We believe funding concerns should not stop any student with the talent to thrive at Lancaster from applying, which is why we offer a range of generous scholarships and bursaries.

What do students say about Lancaster University?

Chat to our current students about life at Lancaster. Our friendly ambassadors will be able to tell you about their student experience and answer any questions you may have.

Ask a student

How do you apply to Lancaster University?

You can use our postgraduate application portal to apply for most of our courses. Visit our website to learn more.

What else should you know about Lancaster University?

Have a question about studying at Lancaster? Visit our website to get in touch, or download a postgraduate prospectus.

Visit our website for further details.