University of Chester

The University of Chester is one of the oldest higher education providers in the United Kingdom, having recently celebrated its 185th year of teaching. Established in 1839 as a teacher training college, the university was originally based on a single campus in Chester. Today, it offers more than 200 single and combined honours programmes across several specialist sites. Over the years, the University of Chester has built a vibrant, diverse, and supportive student community, with 14,000 students from over 123 countries worldwide. For the second consecutive year, the university has been ranked first for International and Postgraduate categories in the 2024 and 2025 WhatUni Student Choice Awards. Additionally, in 2024, it was named Business School of the Year at the Times Higher Education Awards. Courses at the University of Chester emphasise practical learning, encouraging students to develop transferable skills and enhance career prospects through industry placements or overseas opportunities. The university is proud of its high graduate employment rate, with 91.5 per cent of graduates securing employment or progressing to further study within six months of graduation. A range of financial support is available at all levels of study, including a generous programme of international and merit-based scholarships. The city of Chester combines modern living with a rich and vibrant cultural history. As one of eight world-famous British Heritage cities, Chester welcomes over eight million tourists annually. It is home to the largest Roman amphitheatre in Britain, the most complete city walls, and a 1,000-year-old cathedral, offering a wealth of must-see beauty and heritage attractions. Chester is also well connected to the rest of the UK, with Liverpool and Manchester less than an hour away and London only two hours by train. The University of Chester takes pride in the quality of support provided to its students. With a wide range of support services available across campuses and dedicated offices, the university offers comprehensive information, advice, and guidance on all aspects of student life. In 2024, the University of Chester was ranked first for student support in the WhatUni Student Choice Awards, an accolade that reflects its commitment to ensuring every student enjoys an enriching and fulfilling experience during their time at the university. Students benefit from access to outstanding support services throughout their studies. Before arrival, all students receive a tailored International Welcome designed to help them settle into life in the UK. This includes guidance on setting up a UK bank account, registering with a doctor, understanding visa requirements, and more. Students also have access to a dedicated Careers and Employability team, committed to helping them reach their full potential. The team provides a variety of employability-enhancing opportunities, including employer engagement, tailored group sessions, and individual information, advice, and guidance. The University of Chester is strongly committed to student safety. A wide range of services, procedures, and interventions are in place to maintain a secure environment. A dedicated team of porters provides a 24-hour security service throughout the year, supported by CCTV across all campuses.