University of East London
London, United Kingdom
University of East London
London, United Kingdom
Founded
1898
Institution Type
Public University
Total Students
40,000+
International Students
160+ Countries
University of East London: Overview and History
University of East London: Overview and History
The University of East London (UEL) is a public university located in the London Borough of Newham, operating across three campuses in Stratford and Docklands. Founded in 1898 as the West Ham Technical Institute, UEL was established as a 'people's university' with the mission of serving its local community and beyond. Today it is home to over 40,000 students from more than 160 countries.
UEL gained university status in 1992 after evolving through several institutional forms, including the North East London Polytechnic (formed in 1970) and the Polytechnic of East London. The university is recognised as a careers-led institution with a strong focus on employability, industry-aligned education, and reducing inequality through accessible higher education.
UEL's research profile has grown significantly, with 92% of its research recognised as world-leading or internationally excellent in the Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021. The university earned University of the Year for Teaching Quality from The Times and Sunday Times in 2025 and is ranked among the top young universities globally by Times Higher Education.
Key Milestones
- 1898: Founded as the West Ham Technical Institute, offering courses in science, engineering, and art.
- 1970: Three colleges merged to form the North East London Polytechnic.
- 1992: Gained full university status and adopted the name University of East London.
- 1999: Docklands Campus opened as the first new university campus built in London in over 50 years.
Academic Structure and Schools
Academic Structure and Schools
The University of East London organises its teaching and research across several academic schools, offering over 160 undergraduate and 120 postgraduate programmes. UEL's curriculum is developed in collaboration with industry partners to ensure graduates are prepared for the modern workplace, with a strong emphasis on practical skills and professional readiness.
School of Architecture, Computing and Engineering
Established in 2011, this school delivers programmes in architecture, computing, civil engineering, electrical and electronic engineering, mathematics, and product design. It is known for award-winning architecture courses and strong industry links.
- BSc (Hons) Computer Science
- BEng (Hons) Civil Engineering
- BA (Hons) Architecture
Royal Docks School of Business and Law
This combined school offers undergraduate, postgraduate, and PhD programmes in business, management, law, and accounting. Its programmes are recognised by professional bodies including ACCA, CMI, and CIPD.
- MBA (Master of Business Administration)
- LLB (Hons) Law
- BA (Hons) Business Management
School of Arts and Creative Industries
Offering courses in media, performing arts, fashion, and creative industries, this school is home to vibrant programmes that blend practical skills with critical analysis. Students benefit from modern facilities at the University Square Stratford campus.
- BA (Hons) Fashion Design
- BA (Hons) Film Studies
- BA (Hons) Performing Arts
School of Education and Communities
This school delivers teaching and supports research in education, early childhood studies, social work, and community development. It is well-regarded for its focus on teacher education, multilingualism, and diversity.
- BA (Hons) Education Studies
- BA (Hons) Social Work
- MA Education
School of Health, Sport and Bioscience
Supporting research and teaching in nursing, physiotherapy, biomedical science, sports science, and more, this school partners with the NHS and operates London's only provider of podiatric education.
- BSc (Hons) Nursing
- BSc (Hons) Sports and Exercise Science
- BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science
School of Psychology
Delivering BPS-accredited programmes in psychology, counselling, and mentoring, this school is one of UEL's strongest departments. Psychology is ranked in the top 301-400 globally by Times Higher Education.
- BSc (Hons) Psychology
- MSc Clinical Psychology
- BSc (Hons) Counselling and Mentoring
Admission Requirements
Admission Requirements
Undergraduate Admission
- Application RouteUCAS or direct application via UEL portal
- Academic RequirementA-levels, BTEC, or equivalent Level 3 qualifications with minimum UCAS tariff points
- GCSE RequirementMinimum grade C in English and Mathematics plus three other GCSEs at grades A-C
- English Language (IELTS)Minimum IELTS 5.5 to 6.0 overall, depending on programme
- Application FeeGBP 28.50 via UCAS; direct applications to UEL are free
Postgraduate Admission
- Application RouteDirect application via UEL online portal
- Academic RequirementUK bachelor's degree at 2:2 or equivalent, or higher
- English Language (IELTS)Minimum IELTS 6.0 to 6.5 overall, depending on programme
- Application FeeFree for most postgraduate programmes
- Supporting DocumentsAcademic transcripts, personal statement, CV, and references
UCAS opens for September entry from 1 September the previous year, with the main UCAS deadline in January.
International students should aim to submit applications by March for the September intake to allow time for visa processing.
The September intake is the primary entry point with the widest range of available programmes at both UG and PG levels.
UEL also offers January and May intakes with a more limited selection of courses, popular for postgraduate programmes.
Tuition Fees and Scholarships
Tuition Fees and Scholarships
The University of East London offers competitive tuition fees relative to other London-based universities. Fees vary depending on your programme and fee status. The figures below represent typical annual costs for the 2025-26 academic year.
| Fee Category | UK/Home Students | International Students |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate Tuition (per year) | GBP 9,250 | GBP 15,560 |
| Postgraduate Taught (per year) | Varies by programme | GBP 13,920 - GBP 18,060 |
| MPhil/PhD Full-time (per year) | GBP 6,320 | GBP 16,900 |
| Estimated Living Costs (per year) | GBP 12,000 - GBP 15,000 | GBP 12,000 - GBP 15,000 |
| Total | Contact UEL for programme-specific totals | Contact UEL for programme-specific totals |
International Scholarships
UEL provides a range of merit-based international scholarships offering between GBP 1,000 and GBP 5,000 off the first year's tuition fees. These are automatically assessed when you receive an offer for an eligible course.
- Award Amount: GBP 1,000 - GBP 5,000
- Eligibility: International students with an unconditional or conditional offer
- Application: Automatically assessed; no separate application required
Postgraduate 50% Fee Waiver Scholarship
A highly competitive scholarship offering a 50% fee waiver on tuition fees for eligible postgraduate taught certificate, diploma, or master's courses. This is assessed internally and awarded based on academic merit.
- Award Amount: 50% tuition fee waiver
- Eligibility: Eligible PG taught programmes starting in September or January
- Additional Discounts: 5% early payment discount; up to 25% Alumni Scholarship; 15% direct progression discount
Campus and Facilities
Campus and Facilities
UEL operates across three modern campuses in East London, all located in the London Borough of Newham. The campuses are well-connected by public transport and situated near the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and the Canary Wharf financial district.
The largest campus, located on the Royal Albert Dock, featuring modern facilities, student accommodation, and the SportsDock sports complex.
Centred around the 19th-century listed University House, this campus hosts education, health, and psychology schools with upgraded labs and a modern library.
A state-of-the-art campus co-owned with Birkbeck, University of London, housing performing arts, business, law, and criminology programmes.
Housing and Dining
On-Campus Accommodation
UEL is one of the few London universities offering on-campus accommodation at its Docklands campus, with 1,200 waterfront student rooms featuring 24-hour security.
- En-suite rooms and shared flats available
- 24-hour security and CCTV on site
- Launderettes, shops, and cafes on campus
Sports and Recreation
The GBP 21 million SportsDock complex at Docklands served as the High-Performance Training Centre for Team USA during the London 2012 Olympics and is available to all students.
- Fully equipped gym and fitness suites
- Multi-purpose sports halls and outdoor pitches
- Open-air fitness suite and water sports access
Student Life at UEL
Student Life at UEL
UEL offers a vibrant and diverse student experience, with a wide range of clubs, societies, and activities run by the Students' Union. The university's location in East London provides easy access to the cultural, social, and professional opportunities of one of the world's most dynamic cities.
Location: East London, United Kingdom
Location: East London, United Kingdom
Living in East London
East London has undergone intensive regeneration since the 2012 Olympic Games, transforming into one of London's most exciting and diverse areas. UEL's campuses are in the London Borough of Newham, close to the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, the ExCeL Centre, and the Canary Wharf financial district, with excellent transport links across the capital.
Transport Links
Excellent connectivity via the DLR, Elizabeth Line, Jubilee Line, and London City Airport, making central London and beyond easily accessible.
Cultural Diversity
Newham is one of London's most diverse boroughs, offering a rich mix of cuisines, markets, and cultural events from communities around the world.
Affordable Living
Living costs in East London are generally more affordable compared to Central London, helping students stretch their budgets further.
Olympic Legacy
The Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park offers world-class sports venues, green spaces, and cultural attractions including the London Stadium and ArcelorMittal Orbit.
Career Outcomes and Alumni
Career Outcomes and Alumni
Notable Employers of UEL Graduates
Practical Information
Practical Information
For International Students
UEL's International Office provides guidance from the initial application stage through to arrival in London, including free orientation programmes and pre-sessional English courses.
The university supports international students with CAS issuance, pre-CAS checks, and Student visa (formerly Tier 4) application guidance. A CAS deposit of GBP 5,000 is required.
The Student Money Advice and Rights Team (SMART) helps students with financial queries, budgeting advice, and information about additional funding sources throughout their studies.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
Worldwide University Rankings
Worldwide University Rankings
The University of East London has seen significant improvements in national rankings, particularly for teaching quality and student satisfaction, while maintaining a presence in global ranking tables. UEL was named University of the Year for Teaching Quality 2025 by The Times and Sunday Times.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Psychology | Times Higher Education | #301-400 |
| Education | Times Higher Education | #501-600 |
| Computer Science | REF 2021 | 73% World-leading or Internationally Excellent |
| Interior Design | University Guru | #1 in UK |
Features
Vision 2028 is our ambitious 10-year strategy to reshape the face of education through collaborative initiatives alongside industry partners. As the economy rapidly shifts towards a digital future, we are nurturing the next wave of digital professionals, entrepreneurs, and researchers. Our mission remains to foster inclusive pathways to career readiness for students of all backgrounds whilst driving positive change and measurable impact through our research, global partnerships, and innovative educational models. We’ve forged strategic partnerships with industry giants like AWS, Microsoft, and Siemens to ensure our students are primed for success.
Accommodation
Off-Campus Accommodations Students wishing to live off-campus need to research availability on their own, and should arrive well before the start of term to do so.
Work While Studying
See guidelines on working while studying here.
Co-op/Internship Participation
Even if you do NOT meet our minimum English requirement (IELTS or TOEFL), you still can get conditionally accepted in the program of your choice with the condition of completing our English program prior to starting your chosen program.
Featured Programmes
Average Time To Receive Acceptance Letter
September - July
Location
University Way, London E16 2RD, United Kingdom
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