Nestled in the rolling Lancashire countryside, Lancaster University is a distinguished public research university known for its strong academic reputation, supportive campus environment, and internationally recognised research. Established in 1964, it is a member of the prestigious N8 Research Partnership and consistently ranks within the top 15 UK universities. With around 15,000 students—nearly 25% of whom are international—Lancaster offers a globally minded and inclusive academic community.
Campus and Location
Lancaster’s single-site campus is located just a few miles from the historic city centre, sitting amid woodland and lakes. Designed within a pedestrian-friendly layout, the campus combines modern academic buildings with student accommodations, sports facilities, shops and cafés, all connected by scenic walking and cycling routes. The campus offers an immersive collegiate system with six undergraduate colleges and additional graduate communities.
Collegiate System
Each undergraduate college—Bowland, Cartmel, County, Furness, Grizedale and Lonsdale—serves as a tight-knit community hub. Colleges offer social events, sports teams, study zones, counselling services and peer support. Graduate students join the Graduate College, which provides tailored events, networking opportunities and communal spaces.
Academic Faculties and Courses
Lancaster University offers a wide variety of programmes across four faculties:
Lancaster University Management School (LUMS)
Ranked among the leading European business schools, LUMS provides courses in Management, Finance, Marketing, Accounting, Economics, Strategy, and International Business.
Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences
Offers degrees in Law, Psychology, Sociology, Politics, English Literature, History, and Theatre and Performance.
Faculty of Science and Technology
Covers Computer Science, Engineering, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Environmental Science, and Psychology.
Faculty of Health and Medicine
Focuses on Biomedical Science, Psychology, Medical Sciences, and a growing suite of clinical skills and research courses.
Undergraduate students can choose single or joint honours programmes, while postgraduate offerings include taught master’s and doctoral research opportunities. Many courses feature optional placement years, integrated international study, or professional accreditation.
Tuition Fees (2025 Entry)
Undergraduate Tuition Fees
Home students: £9,250 per year
International students: £20,500–£25,000 per year, depending on the subject
Postgraduate Taught Tuition Fees
Home students: £9,750–£14,500 per year
International students: £21,000–£28,000 per year
Postgraduate Research (PhD, MRes)
Home students: £5,500–£7,000 per year
International students: £19,000–£23,000 per year
A range of scholarships and fee waivers is available for international students, including academic merit awards and country-specific bursaries.
Admission Requirements
Entry standards vary by course but typically require strong A-level or equivalent qualifications and satisfactory English language scores. International students usually need IELTS 6.5 (minimum 6.0 in each component) or equivalent scores in TOEFL, PTE, or Cambridge exams. Select programmes may request personal statements, references, or admissions tests.
Student Accommodation
Over 6,000 students live on campus in a variety of college halls and shared flats. On-campus rooms come furnished and include utilities, internet access, and housekeeping services. Weekly rents range from £110 to £180, depending on room type and college. Off-campus rentals are also available in Lancaster city centre, with average rents from £450 to £800 per month for shared flats.
Campus Life and Student Experience
Students enjoy vibrant campus life through college-organised events, sports clubs, societies, and cultural groups. The Students’ Union represents student interests, organises entertainment, and facilitates volunteering and entrepreneurial activities. Key social hubs include the retail centre, lakeside café, arts venue, and sports park offering indoor and outdoor facilities for football, rugby, swimming, athletics, and climbing.
Student Services and Support
International students benefit from dedicated orientation programmes, visa and immigration assistance, English language support, and cultural integration activities. The university also provides personal tutors, wellbeing advisors, disability services, and careers support. The Career Lancaster team offers CV guidance, interview practice, internships, a graduate vacancy portal, and employer networking events.
Diversity and Community
Lancaster University celebrates a truly international community with students from more than 120 countries. Colleges encourage multicultural engagement through food events, festivals, language meet-ups, and support for international student societies. Inclusivity is woven throughout campus life, with cross-cultural celebrations and peer mentor schemes.
Research Strengths
The university is well known for its world-leading research in biosciences, data analytics, management science, environmental technology, and social policy. Many academic schools have strong relationships with industry partners and impact-driven organisations that enhance student learning and employability.
Graduate Outcomes and Employability
Lancaster graduates are highly valued in the global job market. Around 94% are in work or further study within 15 months of graduating, with alumni entering roles in top firms like Deloitte, EY, Rolls-Royce, Unilever, the NHS, and leading research institutions. The university’s flexible placement schemes and integration with employers support early career success.
Living in Lancaster
The city offers a safe, student-friendly environment with a compact centre featuring independent shops, cafés, markets, theatres and live music. Living costs are modest compared to major cities—student monthly budgets typically range from £800 to £1,300. Lancaster’s efficient public transport connects students easily to Manchester and Liverpool.
Why Choose Lancaster University?
Lancaster blends high academic standards with personalised student support, a strong sense of community, a beautiful campus, and successful graduate outcomes. It offers a balanced and enriching university experience for students seeking a modern, research-driven education set in a welcoming environment.
For guidance on applying, course selection or scholarship support, book a free consultation with Universitio today and plan your pathway to Lancaster confidently.
