YORK UNIVERSITIES

Less than half a mile between them, York St John University and the University of York are the city’s only two universities with a fascinating history, both of which are situated within walking distance to the heart of York city centre.

Although the University of York is widely regarded as one of the UK’s most prestigious universities, it was not actually established until 1963, despite having petitions drawn several times for its creation in 1617, 1641 and 1647. More than 300 years since its first petition the university was finally opened with 216 undergraduates welcomed in its first year. The university has prospered and now admits over 14,000 students each year. It has been widely recognised as a world-class university which strives to achieve excellence for all, having obtained a position in the Top 50 of the Times Higher Education World University Rankings in 2019.

The University of York is the Alma-mater for fifteen members of parliament, five members of the House of Lords and even author Anthony Horowitz who is famed for his creation of the Alex Rider novel series.

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As most universities, with every year that passes, their vision for progression continues to expand with the belief that diversity, inclusion and a thirst for knowledge should take precedence above all else. Their future goals also include providing a home for some of the best research in the world and in recent years they’ve seen a 35% growth on their research income.

The University of York are focused on inspiring young minds and helping people of all ages to learn more in a way that best suits their needs. That’s why the University of York provides opportunities for online degrees for added flexibility to those who have to tailor study around a hectic personal life. They also offer 300 courses for professional development on a diverse range of topics.

But life at this university is not just about studying, it’s also about community and how the student lifestyle can provide sociable skills that will become invaluable for your future. There are over 200 student societies to choose from, such as academic groups like astronomy and Shakespeare to more light-hearted groups like Murder Mystery and Quidditch. Why not try something more energetic and choose from over 65 sport and fitness activities ranging from beginner to professional status depending on your athleticism!

As well as this, the University of York provide help for students on making the transition from living at home to spreading their wings and enjoying all that independent living has to offer, as easy and comfortable as possible.

Similarly, York St John University holds the same values and aspirations for their student’s wellbeing and dedication to help their education prosper, but they come from very different historical backgrounds.

Despite the city’s outcry for a local university, York St John remained at college status from its construction in 1841 until 2006, when it finally gained university status. Originally created for men only, a second college was created in 1846 for women but consequently relocated to Ripon in 1862. It wasn’t until 1974, both colleges merged and began working under the University of Leeds status in 1990 before finally receiving the right to award its own degrees in 2006.

Whilst not as large as the University of York, York St John has fast become a popular choice for studying, with 97% of students succeeding in progressing further study or work six months after graduation.

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