University of Greenwich
London, United Kingdom
University of Greenwich
London, United Kingdom
Founded
1890
Institution Type
Public University
Total Students
28,000+
TEF Rating
Gold (2023)
Discover the University of Greenwich: History and Overview
Discover the University of Greenwich: History and Overview
The University of Greenwich is a public university located in London and Kent, United Kingdom, with its main campus set within the historic Old Royal Naval College — a UNESCO World Heritage Site on the banks of the River Thames. Founded in 1890 as Woolwich Polytechnic, the second-oldest polytechnic in the UK, it has grown into a modern institution serving students from over 140 countries worldwide.
The university was granted full university status in 1992 and officially renamed the University of Greenwich in 1993. It is organised into four faculties — Engineering and Science, Education Health and Human Sciences, Business, and Liberal Arts and Sciences — offering over 200 undergraduate and 150 postgraduate programmes across a broad range of disciplines including architecture, business, computing, engineering, humanities, and pharmacy.
Greenwich has been classified as Gold in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) 2023, recognising its outstanding student experience and outcomes. The university has earned four Queen's Anniversary Prizes and nine Times Higher Education Awards, and its alumni include two Nobel Prize laureates: Charles Kao (Physics, 2009) and Abiy Ahmed (Peace, 2019).
Key Milestones
- 1890: Founded as Woolwich Polytechnic, the second polytechnic established in the United Kingdom.
- 1992: Granted university status by the UK government and renamed the University of Greenwich in 1993.
- 1996: The Natural Resources Institute (NRI), formerly a UK government research agency, was incorporated into the university.
- 2023: Awarded Gold in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF), recognising outstanding teaching quality and student outcomes.
Academic Structure and Faculties
Academic Structure and Faculties
The University of Greenwich organises its academic disciplines into four main faculties, each offering a diverse portfolio of undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programmes. With over 400 programmes spanning business, computing, engineering, health, humanities, and sciences, students benefit from career-focused curricula and strong industry connections.
Greenwich Business School
The Business School offers programmes in accounting, finance, economics, marketing, management, and human resources, with strong links to London's business community and professional accreditations.
- BA (Hons) Business Management
- MSc International Business
- MBA Global
Faculty of Engineering and Science
This faculty covers engineering, computing, natural sciences, pharmacy, and mathematics, with access to specialist laboratories and research centres including the Natural Resources Institute.
- BEng (Hons) Civil Engineering
- MPharm Pharmacy
- MSc Computer Science
Faculty of Education, Health and Human Sciences
Offering programmes in teacher training, nursing, midwifery, physiotherapy, paramedic science, and sport science, this faculty is based primarily at the Avery Hill campus with strong NHS partnerships.
- BSc (Hons) Adult Nursing
- PGCE Primary Education
- MSc Physiotherapy (Pre-registration)
Faculty of Liberal Arts and Sciences
This faculty encompasses architecture, design, humanities, law, social sciences, and creative arts, housed in award-winning buildings including the Stockwell Street Building.
- BA (Hons) Architecture
- LLB (Hons) Law
- MA Creative Writing
Natural Resources Institute (NRI)
A specialist research and teaching centre within the university, the NRI focuses on food security, pest management, and sustainable development, and has received multiple Queen's Anniversary Prizes.
- MSc Food Safety and Quality Management
- MSc Agriculture for Sustainable Development
- PhD Natural Resources
Greenwich Maritime Institute
Established in 1998, the Greenwich Maritime Institute is a specialist postgraduate and research centre focused on maritime history, management, and policy, located at the Old Royal Naval College near the National Maritime Museum.
- MSc Maritime Management
- MA Maritime History
- PhD Maritime Studies
Admission Requirements for International Students
Admission Requirements for International Students
Undergraduate Admissions
- Academic QualificationA-Levels, International Baccalaureate, or equivalent secondary qualification; foundation year available for those who need it
- English Language (IELTS)IELTS 6.0 overall (minimum 5.5 in each component) for most programmes
- Application MethodApply through UCAS or directly via the university's online application portal
- Application FeeUCAS application fee of approximately GBP 28.50 for multiple choices
- Supporting DocumentsAcademic transcripts, personal statement, reference letter, and proof of English proficiency
Postgraduate Admissions
- Academic QualificationA recognised bachelor's degree (minimum 2:2 or equivalent) in a relevant subject area
- English Language (IELTS)IELTS 6.0-6.5 overall depending on programme (minimum 5.5-6.0 in each component)
- Application MethodApply directly through the university's online application portal; no application fee for direct postgraduate applications
- Supporting DocumentsAcademic transcripts, degree certificate, two references, personal statement, and CV
- Tuition Fee DepositInternational students must pay a deposit of GBP 3,000 to GBP 5,000 to secure their CAS for visa application
The UCAS equal consideration deadline for international undergraduate applicants is typically mid-January each year.
The primary intake for both undergraduate and postgraduate programmes begins in September, with Welcome Week activities.
Select postgraduate programmes also offer a January start date. Check the university website for eligible courses.
Postgraduate applications are accepted on a rolling basis, but early application is strongly recommended to allow time for visa processing.
Tuition Fees and Scholarships
Tuition Fees and Scholarships
The University of Greenwich offers competitive tuition fees for both home and international students. International undergraduate fees are consistent across most programmes, simplifying financial planning. Various scholarships and bursaries are available to help offset costs.
| Fee Category | Home Students (Annual) | International Students (Annual) |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate Tuition | GBP 9,250 - GBP 9,790 | GBP 16,700 - GBP 17,700 |
| Postgraduate Taught | GBP 8,500 - GBP 11,000 | GBP 17,450 - GBP 21,000 |
| Accommodation (approx.) | GBP 5,000 - GBP 8,000 | GBP 5,000 - GBP 8,000 |
| Living Expenses (approx.) | GBP 12,000 - GBP 15,000 | GBP 12,000 - GBP 15,000 |
| Total | GBP 34,750 - GBP 43,790 | GBP 51,150 - GBP 61,700 |
International Scholarship Award
A first-year tuition fee reduction of up to GBP 3,000 for international students with accepted offers. Applications are competitive with specific deadlines.
- Award Value: Up to GBP 3,000
- Eligibility: International fee-paying students with an accepted offer
- Application: Apply through the university or its authorised representatives
Alumni Postgraduate Award
Greenwich alumni returning for postgraduate study may be eligible for a tuition fee reduction, supporting continued academic development at the university.
- Award Value: Up to GBP 5,000
- Eligibility: University of Greenwich graduates enrolling in a postgraduate programme
- Application: Apply via the Fast Track alumni application route
Campus and Facilities
Campus and Facilities
The University of Greenwich operates across three distinctive campuses, each with its own character and facilities. The main Greenwich Campus is set within the stunning Old Royal Naval College, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring baroque architecture by Sir Christopher Wren on the banks of the River Thames.
The main campus is located within the historic Old Royal Naval College, home to the Business School and Faculty of Liberal Arts and Sciences.
Opened in 2014 and shortlisted for the Stirling Prize, this building houses the campus library, film and TV studios, and editing suites.
Situated in Eltham near the 86-acre Avery Hill Park, this campus hosts the Faculty of Education, Health and Human Sciences and student accommodation.
Housing and Dining
Student Accommodation
The university offers a range of on-campus accommodation options including en-suite rooms, shared flats, and studio apartments, primarily located at the Avery Hill campus with excellent transport links.
- En-suite single rooms and shared flats
- Studio apartments for postgraduate students
- Campus bus service connecting all three campuses
Dining and Social Spaces
Each campus features cafes, eateries, and social spaces. The Cooper Building and Dreadnought Building at Greenwich Campus host the Students' Union with a bar, pool room, and food outlets.
- Multiple cafes and food outlets across campuses
- Students' Union bar and social spaces at the Dreadnought Building
- On-campus shops and convenience stores
Student Life at the University of Greenwich
Student Life at the University of Greenwich
Student life at Greenwich is vibrant and diverse, supported by an active Students' Union with a presence on all three campuses. With students from over 140 countries, you will experience a truly multicultural environment enriched by cultural events, clubs, and community activities throughout the academic year.
Location: Greenwich, London
Location: Greenwich, London
Living in Greenwich, London
Greenwich is a historic and culturally rich borough in southeast London, famous for the Prime Meridian, the Royal Observatory, and its UNESCO World Heritage Site. With excellent transport links including the DLR, rail, and river bus services, Central London is just 29 minutes away by train, giving students access to one of the world's most dynamic cities.
UNESCO World Heritage Site
Maritime Greenwich is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, encompassing the Old Royal Naval College, the Queen's House, and the Royal Observatory.
Greenwich Park and Royal Observatory
The 74-hectare Greenwich Park offers green spaces, panoramic views of London, and is home to the Royal Observatory where the Prime Meridian line is located.
Excellent Transport Links
Greenwich is well connected via DLR, Southeastern rail services, buses, and Thames Clipper river buses, making commuting across London quick and convenient.
Vibrant Local Culture
The area features Greenwich Market, the National Maritime Museum, the Cutty Sark, independent shops, cafes, and restaurants, providing a lively atmosphere for students.
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Where Greenwich Graduates Work
Practical Information for International Students
Practical Information for International Students
For International Students
The university provides dedicated visa guidance for international students, including support with CAS letters, Tier 4 student visa applications, and post-study work visa options under the UK Graduate Route.
The Employability and Apprenticeship team offers CV workshops, mock interviews, careers fairs, internship placements, and mentoring. Services remain available for up to two years after graduation.
New international students are supported through a pre-arrival programme and on-campus Welcome Week, covering orientation, campus tours, social events, and practical advice on banking and settling into London.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
University of Greenwich: Worldwide Rankings
University of Greenwich: Worldwide Rankings
The University of Greenwich is consistently ranked among the top universities globally, with recognition across multiple international ranking systems. Its Gold TEF rating and strong subject-level performance in areas like hospitality, business, and social sciences highlight its commitment to teaching excellence and research impact.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Hospitality and Leisure Management | QS World Rankings | #151-175 |
| Business and Economics | Times Higher Education | #201-250 |
| Social Sciences | Times Higher Education | #201-250 |
| Tourism and Hospitality | ShanghaiRanking (ARWU) | #46 |
Features
Historical Significance: The Greenwich Campus is set in a historic area near the Royal Observatory and the Cutty Sark, offering a rich cultural and historical backdrop.\n\nAcademic Programs: The university offers a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programs across various disciplines including business, engineering, science, health, humanities, and social sciences.\n\nResearch: The University of Greenwich is involved in impactful research across various fields. It supports research initiatives and has several research centers dedicated to different areas of study.\n\nInternational Community: With a significant number of international students, the university provides a diverse and multicultural environment, with dedicated support services for international students.\n\nFacilities: The university boasts modern facilities, including state-of-the-art laboratories, libraries, sports centers, and student accommodation.\n\nStudent Life: The university has a vibrant student community with various clubs, societies, and activities. It supports a range of extracurricular activities and offers resources for student well-being and personal development.\n\nEmployability: The University of Greenwich emphasizes employability, offering career services, industry links, and placement opportunities to help students prepare for the job market.\n\nSustainability: The university is committed to sustainability and has initiatives in place to reduce its environmental impact and promote sustainable practices across its campuses.\n\nLocation: Its campuses are well-connected by public transport, making it easy for students to explore London and the surrounding areas.
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
April - October
July - January
September - March
Location
The Old Royal Naval College campus of the University of Greenwich is situated in the historic Greenwich area of London, UK. It is located on Park Row, which runs along the southern bank of the River Thames. Nearby attractions include Greenwich Park, the Cutty Sark ship, Greenwich Market, and the Greenwich Observatory.
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