The University of Leeds received its Charter as an independent institution from Edward VII in 1904. Since, Leeds has developed into one of the UK’s top research universities with more than 90% of our research rated as ‘world leading’ or ‘internationally excellent,’ by the Research Excellence Framework, 2021.
The University’s priorities are rooted in our desire to make a difference in the world. Our academic strategy for 2020 to 2030 ‘Universal Values, Global Change’, sets a blueprint for a values-driven university that harnesses expertise in research and education to help shape a better future for humanity, working through collaboration to tackle inequalities; benefit society; and drive change.
The University of Leeds is ranked 75th globally in QS World University Rankings, a key strength being the International Research Network, for which the University is ranked 16th in the world and 7th in the UK.
As highlighted by Professor Hai-Sui Yu, interim Vice-Chancellor and President, “This international recognition vindicates our commitment to collaboration rather than competition; building on dynamic and outcome-focused partnerships aimed at tackling the major challenges of our time.”
Academic excellence is one of our core values and we conduct research of international importance to shape lives. The University of Leeds has a significant portfolio of Official Development Assistance (ODA) research, that highlights our commitment to challenge-led research that addresses the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Addressing global challenges and the UN SDGs, has been a key driver for research at the University. This places Leeds 3rd in value of, and 1st for the number of Official Development Assistance (ODA) awards, promoting research in the social and economic welfare of low or middle-income countries.
We are one of the largest research-based universities in the UK. The University’s significant contribution to world-leading excellence, innovation and public benefit has been recognised by the Queen’s Anniversary Prizes three times; for the impact made by the Priestley Centre for Climate Futures, Institute of Medical and Biomedical Engineering, and Institute for Transport Studies. Our experts represent their fields in global and national organisations such as the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) and the UK Food Standards Agency.
Our global reputation for teaching and research attracts students from around the world, with almost 40,000 students current enrolled, of which 28% are postgraduates and more than 14,400 are international students from 137 countries.
