Lancaster University sits in Lancaster England. It's a top-notch school that focuses on great research and teaching. Founded in 1964, it ranks high among UK and world universities. The school offers many undergraduate and graduate programs in fields like arts, sciences, engineering, business, and social sciences. Lancaster is famous for its college system, which creates a tight community feel. It also cares about being green and coming up with new ideas. With a lively campus and students from all over, Lancaster University gives students a chance to grow both in their studies and as people.
Highlights of Lancaster University
Established
1964
Website
www.lancaster.ac.uk
Also Known As
LU, Lancaster
QS Ranking
122nd globally (2024)
US News & World Report- Global University Ranking
150th globally
Times Higher Education (THE) Ranking
146th globally
Accepted Exams
IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, GMAT (for specific programs)
Total No. of Students
Approximately 16,000
Scholarships
Available for both undergraduate and postgraduate students
Student-Teacher Ratio
14:1
Contact Information
+44 (0)1524 65201, admissions@lancaster.ac.uk
Latest About Lancaster University
Lancaster University ranks among the best schools in the world. It stands out for its top-notch academics, lively campus, and many chances to do research. Lancaster is one of the few UK schools that uses a college system. This setup blends tough academics with community involvement. You'll find the university in Lancaster, England. Students love its beautiful campus and are usually very happy with their experience there.
History of Lancaster University
Lancaster University began in 1964, during a time when the UK started many new universities. People call this time the "new university" movement, which aimed to meet the growing need for college education in the country. Over the years, Lancaster has grown from a small local school into one of the UK's top research-focused universities known worldwide for its great teaching and research.
Mission: To motivate and enable our students and staff to build knowledge, skills, and creativity, and to help make society better.
Vision: To become a top-notch university that people around the world respect for its high-quality research, teaching, and the effect of its work.
Core values:
Excellence: Setting high standards in every part of university life.
Inclusivity: Appreciating differences and pushing for equal treatment.
Innovation: Supporting fresh thinking and breakthroughs.
Sustainability: Dedication to protecting the environment.
Popular Courses
Lancaster University offers the following popular courses:
MSc in Data Science
BSc in Computer Science
MBA (Master of Business Administration)
MSc in Management
BA in Politics and International Relations
MSc in Psychology
BEng in Mechanical Engineering
MSc in Environmental Science
BA in English Literature
MSc in Cyber Security
These courses aim to give students the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in their chosen fields.
Lancaster University Placements
Lancaster University boasts a solid track record in job placement for graduates, with companies worldwide eager to hire its alumni. The university's job center offers plenty of help such as:
Career Advice: One-on-one chats with job coaches.
Work Experience: Chances to get hands-on experience during or after your degree.
Meeting Employers: Job fairs and hiring events on campus.
Job Skills: Classes to improve your resume, ace interviews, and apply for jobs.
Students who finish at Lancaster University often land jobs at big-name firms like PwC, Deloitte, Google, Microsoft, and IBM. New graduates start with a salary of about £28,000 a year.
Lancaster University Campus Life
Lancaster University's campus sits on 560 acres of parkland giving students a beautiful and peaceful setting. The campus features:
Nine Colleges: Each has its own distinct character offering housing social gatherings, and student services.
Student Union: Plans lots of activities, clubs, and events throughout the year.
Sports Centre: Has a gym, pool, climbing wall, and sports halls.
Library: Stays open all day and night, with tons of resources and places to study.
Accommodation: Offers different options, from rooms with private bathrooms to shared apartments all within easy walking distance of class buildings.
The campus aims to create a tight-knit community offering many chances to socialize, unwind, and have fun.
Lancaster University Alumni
Lancaster University boasts a worldwide network of more than 130,000 former students, with many achieving remarkable success in different areas. Well-known graduates include:
Andy Serkis: Actor who played roles in "The Lord of the Rings" and "Planet of the Apes."
James May: TV host, writer, and journalist famous for co-hosting "Top Gear."
Ranvir Singh: TV host and journalist, recognized for her contributions to "Good Morning Britain."
Alison Holt: BBC Social Affairs Correspondent.
Catherine Bell: Canadian diplomat and Ambassador.
The university keeps close connections with its former students providing chances to network, get mentorship, and receive help with careers.
Lancaster University Faculty
The teachers at Lancaster University are top experts in their fields helping the university produce great research and maintain its academic standing. With over 700 academic staff, many take part in groundbreaking research that shapes their lessons. The 14:1 teacher-to-student ratio means students get one-on-one help and backing throughout their time at school.
Lancaster University's Fees
The cost to attend Lancaster University changes based on what you study and at what level. Here are the rough Lancaster University fees for the school year 2024:
Undergraduate Courses: International students pay £20,000 - £24,000 yearly.
Postgraduate Taught Courses: International students pay £21,000 - £25,000 .
MBA Program: The entire course costs £33,000.
PhD Programs: International students pay £20,000 - £24,000 yearly.
Students should also plan to spend £9,500 - £11,000 on living expenses.
Scholarship
Lancaster University provides many scholarships to help students . Here's a list of some available scholarships:
Lancaster University offers a variety of scholarships to support students financially. Below is a list of some of the scholarships for Lancaster University :
Scholarship Name
Eligibility
Disbursement Amount
Lancaster Global Scholarship
Available to high-achieving international students
£5,000 - £10,000
Chancellor’s Scholarship
Merit-based, only open to international students
Up to 50% of tuition fees
Commonwealth Shared Scholarships
Available to students from Commonwealth countries
Full tuition, living costs, and airfare
Chevening Scholarships
Available to students from Chevening-eligible countries
Full tuition, living costs, and airfare
Alumni Loyalty Scholarship
Available to Lancaster University alumni pursuing postgraduate studies
20% reduction in tuition fees
Lancaster University's Admission
English Language Requirements:
Lancaster University requires international students whose first language isn't English to prove their English skills. Here are the typical English language requirements to get into Lancaster University:
IELTS: Overall score of 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in each component.
TOEFL iBT: Overall score of 87 with a minimum of 20 in speaking and 19 in all other elements.
PTE Academic: 62 with at least 51 in each component.
Supporting Documents:
To strengthen your application, Lancaster University needs these documents for admissions:
Academic Transcripts: Certified copies of your past school records.
Proof of English Language Proficiency: Your IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE test results.
Personal Statement: A write-up about your study interests, job plans, and why you want to attend Lancaster University.
Letters of Recommendation: Two teachers from your previous schools should vouch for you.
Curriculum Vitae (CV): If you're applying for a postgrad course, you need to submit a detailed job history.
Passport Copy: Scan your passport to prove who you are.
Portfolio: Some art or design courses might ask to see examples of your work.
These documents play a key role to determine if you qualify for the program you want and to make sure you meet the university's standards for Lancaster University admissions.
Lancaster University's Acceptance Rate
Lancaster University acceptance rate stands at 18.59%. Lancaster University seems to have a tough admissions process making it hard to get into this top-tier university. This figure shows that, on average 19 students gain admission out of every 100 who apply.
Lancaster University's Ranking
Ranked By 2024 QS Ranking
Lancaster University stands out as a top public university in Lancaster, United Kingdom. The QS World University Rankings 2025 places it at #=141. It holds the #3 spots in QS WUR Ranking by Subject. In Europe University Rankings- Northern Europe, it ranks #35, and #63 in Europe University Rankings overall.
US News & World Report- Global University Ranking
Best Global Universities ranks Lancaster University at #232. It sits at #89 among Best Global Universities in Europe, and #23 among Best Global Universities in the United Kingdom.
Times Higher Education (THE) Ranking
THE Ranking puts Lancaster University at =155th in World University Rankings 2024. The Impact Rankings 2024 place the University between 101-200th. Lancaster occupies the 176-200th position in World Reputation Rankings 2022. Young University Rankings list Lancaster University at 10.
Lancaster University has a campus right in the heart of Lancaster city spread over 560 acres of parkland site. The facilities division works across the campus to develop and maintain buildings that provide crucial support services 24x7 a year.
Lancaster University, UK, also has some activities for its students such as sports and well-being events, food and drink, sustainability to retail events. The university has eight college bars, five restaurants and cafes, and many food outlets.
Moreover, the research at Lancaster University, UK, has a global focus, including partnerships with more than 60 countries. Some of the research centers in the university include:
1. Centre for Ageing Research
2. Centre for Bioethics and Medical Law
3. Confucius Institute
4. Data Science Institute
5. Defying Dementia
6. Demand Research Centre
7. Centre for Disability Research (CIDR)
8. Energy Lancaster
9. Centre for Family Business
10. Centre for Financial Econometrics, Asset Markets & Macroeconomic Policy
11. Centre for Gender and Women’s Studies
12. Centre for Global Eco-Innovation
13. Gulf One Lab for Computational and Economic Research
14. Health Innovation Campus
15. Higher Education Research & Evaluation Centre (HERE)
16. Imagination Lancaster
17. Lancaster China Management Centre
18. Lancaster Intelligent, Robotic & Autonomous Systems Centre
19. Lancaster Leadership Collaboratory
20. Centre for Leadership Studies & Practice
83% of the research at Lancaster University has been rated as internationally excellent according to the United Kingdom’s Research Excellence Framework in 2014. The university currently has 1,500 plus academics and research staff and 2,000 postgraduate research students.
The medium of instruction at Lancaster University, UK, is English.
Academic
Lancaster University, UK, has three academic cycles: Fall, Spring, and Summer. The university accepts applications throughout the year; however, the season intake will largely depend on the program and level of education you choose.
The five primary faculties at Lancaster University are Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medicine, Lancaster University Management School, and Faculty of Science and Technology.
The university is home to nine different colleges and communities. These colleges are:
1. Pendle College
2. Lonsdale College
3. Graduate College
4. Grizedale College
5. Fylde College
6. Cartmel College
7. Furness College
8. County College
9. Bowland College
The Lancaster University admission process is simple and fast. The university is on the lookout for students with a proven academic record. By fulfilling the educational requirements, you will have to prove your academic ability and the motivation to study at the institution.
Applications need to be made using the online portal. You will be required to fill out a form and attach all the supporting documents. Moreover, applying as early as possible since the competition is intense for specific programs. Also, scholarships are provided on a first-come-first-serve basis.
As for the Lancaster University admission requirements, here is an application checklist of all the required documents:
1. Academic transcripts
2. Personal statement
3. Language test results in case your first language isn’t English (through IELTS or equivalent)
4. Degree certificates
5. References: you must include all the contact details. You must add one referee who can review the student’s academic suitability for the course. In case your program demands work experience, for instance, in the case of an MBA degree, your referee should be your reporting manager.
Once you’re done applying, the admissions committee will determine your suitability for the program. This may also include an interview round.
Following that, you can expect an email indicating your acceptance or rejection of the program.
If you are accepted into the course, you can log in to the university’s online application system to see the offer and reply. If all the conditions and requirements are fulfilled, you will receive an unconditional letter from the school. You may obtain a conditional offer upon English language results or upcoming exam or request for further evidence.
Once you receive an offer, you will be asked to pay a confirmation deposit to secure your place for the course. However, if you fail to satisfy the offer conditions, you will get a refund.
For this, you will be given four weeks to accept your offer in the online application system and pay the deposit.
As a prospective student, you will also be interested to know that Lancaster University’s acceptance rate stands at 64%, making it one of the moderately competitive schools to get into in the United Kingdom.
The university has 146 master's degrees, 341 bachelor's programs, and 12 online courses. The significant streams for both undergraduate and postgraduate courses are:
1. Social Sciences
2. Business & Management
3. Humanities
4. Law
5. Natural Sciences & Mathematics
6. Engineering & Technology
7. Environmental Studies & Earth Sciences
8. Medicine & Health
9. Computer Science & IT
10. Arts, Design & Architecture
11. Education & Training
12. Journalism & Media
13. Applied Sciences & Professions
14. Agriculture & Forestry
Additionally, popular courses at Lancaster University are in the following disciplines:
1. Art and design
2. Drama
3. Management
Talking about the credit hours that each student needs to take, each module at Lancaster University is worth some credits. Part one of most degree courses has a credit total of 120. So, the majority of the modules equate to 40 credits, and as such, you would need to enroll in at least three.
Next, the college calendar is another essential piece of information that you, as a prospective student, must have. So, here are critical dates for the academic session of 2022-23 at Lancaster University:
1. Welcome week: 3-7 October 2022
2. Michaelmas term: 7 October– 16 December 2022
3. Lent term: 13 January– 24 March 2023
4. Summer term: 21 April– 30 June 2023
5. Degree ceremonies/ Degree congregations (higher degrees): 13-14 December 2022
6. Remaining degree congregations: 18 – 21 July 2023
Lastly, the top programs at Lancaster University, according to The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2021, includes:
1. Physics and Astronomy
2. Mathematics
3. Biological Sciences
4. Mechanical Engineering
5. General Engineering
6. Geography and Environmental Sciences
7. Chemistry
8. Computer Science
Extracurricular and diversity
Lancaster University has a student base from over 100 countries. You can get opportunities to study abroad or visit the overseas campuses in Germany, Chine, Malaysia, and Ghana.
The campuses are:
1. Lancaster University College- Beijing Jiatong University, China
2. Lancaster University Ghana
3. Lancaster University Leipzig, Germany
4. Sunway University, Malaysia
International students receive assistance throughout the journey from the application process to graduation to the entire professional career. The guidance is for obtaining the correct visas, landing up at Lancaster, pre-arrival information and planning costs,
The university also offers airport pickup facilities from the Manchester Airport at the beginning of the term. There are also many pre-sessional English language courses for undergraduate and postgraduate students and international foundation programs.
Additionally, Lancaster University provides many employment programs to ensure that international students are appropriately supported to kickstart their careers in the United Kingdom and overseas. The university’s global partnerships, widespread alumni network, and innumerable stakeholders that are present in the regional communities also help support students.
Moreover, joining a society or a club of your interest at Lancaster University is a perfect way to diversify your profile during your time at the university. The student union organizes many activities and events, providing you with ample opportunities to explore and have fun.
At Lancaster University Management School (LUMS) specifically, all the student societies about business are clubbed together to form the Lancaster University Management School Association (LUMSA)
If you’re still not convinced, here are some of the other reasons why you should think of joining a LUMS society:
1. It is enjoyable and interactive
2. Your time at clubs hone your personality and increases your employability
3. You will meet many like-minded people and fellow students, which will pave the way to elevate your network
4. Students develop people and soft skills such as teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving.
Career/professional
The university provides an effective employability support program visible in the students' excellent graduate prospects for when they pass out from the institution. You will have dedicated career professionals to aid you in creating personalized career plans which will elevate your employability skills as well.
This will be done through employer presentation abilities, gaining valuable experience through placements and work experience, workshops, and connecting with alumni as mentoring programs.
Students can also access the Careers Portal interface to take complete control over their career development. Additionally, they can also sign up asking for alumni connect on the TARGETconnect and send queries regarding appointments, CV, and graduate-level jobs.
Some of the renowned artists from the university are mentioned below:
1. Andy Serkis (Actor, director, and producer)
2. James May (Presenter and journalist)
3. Audrey Azoulay (Director-General of UNESCO and former French Minister of Culture)
4. Jason Queally (Cyclist and Olympic gold medallist)
5. Sarah Waters (Author)
6. Jon Moulton (Venture capitalist and Better Capital founder)
7. Nahed Taher (Co-founder and Non-Executive Director, Gulf One Investment Bank)
Financial
The Lancaster University fees and living costs are the two main expenses that the student needs to incur. While the living cost remains more or less similar for most students, the tuition fee is significantly different.
Generally, the tuition fee to be paid by a student depends on the education level, program name, and whether the student is an in-house student or international.
Furthermore, the application fee for each program is GBP 65. On average, the tuition fee for international students at Lancaster University is GBP 25,000 (~INR 25 lakhs). But Lancaster University offers scholarships to deserving candidates to ease their financial burdens.
For instance, the Undergraduate Scholarships for International Students is a merit-based reward for students pursuing bachelor’s courses at Lancaster University. The amount in the funding is GBP 4,000 (~INR 4 Lakhs).
Lastly, the average living expenses for a student pursuing a bachelor’s program is GBP 9,200 (~INR 9 lakhs), whereas the average living cost for a master's program student is GBP 12,000 (~INR, 12 lakhs).
Disclaimer! All course fees/salaries/expenses are indicative.
What IELTS scores does Lancaster University ask for?
Lancaster University asks for an IELTS score of 6.5 overall, with at least 6.0 in each component to gain admission to most of its programs.
Is Lancaster University public or private?
Lancaster University operates as a public research university.
Is Lancaster University considered a good college?
Lancaster University ranks among the best in the UK and worldwide. It has earned a reputation for academic excellence and produces high-quality research.
Is Lancaster University a tier 1 university?
Many people view Lancaster University as a tier 1 institution in the UK. It stands out for its high-quality teaching and research.
Is Lancaster University a top 50 university?
Although Lancaster University doesn't rank among the top 50 universities , it sits within the top 150 worldwide, as reported by several global ranking organizations.
What are the top 3 Lancaster University majors?
Business & Management, Computer Science, and Environmental Science stand out as the top 3 majors at Lancaster University.
Is it easy to get admission in Lancaster University?
Getting into Lancaster University can be tough, with about 18-20% of applicants receiving acceptance. You'll need excellent grades and a well-rounded application to stand a chance.
What GPA do you need to get into Lancaster University?
To get in, you need a GPA of 3.2 or higher (out of 4.0), but this can change based on the program you're applying to.
What is the Rank of Lancaster University in the USA?
Lancaster University is in the UK, not the USA. But it's known worldwide. US News & World Report puts it at number 150 in its Global University Rankings.
Why do people choose Lancaster University?
Students pick Lancaster University because it has a good name in academics, a helpful community, great facilities on campus, and it helps graduates find jobs.
Does Lancaster University give full scholarships?
Lancaster University gives out many scholarships. Some of these cover all tuition fees and living costs. This is true for students from specific countries.
How much is Lancaster University tuition per year?
International students at Lancaster University pay between £20,000 and £25,000 per year for tuition. The exact amount depends on what you study.
All information provided on this page is for general use and upGrad Abroad is not responsible for any errors or omissions. The Universities involved in this Program are accredited/recognized in the countries where they are established. Relevant terms and conditions apply.Any action taken upon the information found on this website is strictly at your own risk.