University of Huddersfield

Founded in 1825, the University of Huddersfield – originally the Huddersfield Scientific and Mechanic Institute – has a longstanding tradition of providing vocational education.

Today, with student numbers at more than 24,000, the university continues to emphasise professional experience alongside academic study, with all students given the opportunity to undertake work placements and sandwich courses. Around 70% of Huddersfield students gain a professional qualification alongside their main degree and many courses also include a new language as an extra module.

Aided by strong industry links, Huddersfield also prides itself in being a leader in the field of enterprise. It supports self-starters and was awarded with the THE Entrepreneurial University of the Year award in 2012. Its new, state-of-the-art 3M Buckley Innovation Centre promotes innovation and collaboration between students, faculty and local business start-ups.

Overseas study opportunities are available to students within Europe and further afield via Huddersfield’s partnerships with Hong Kong Polytechnic University and SUNY (State University of New York), among others.

The university comprises seven academic schools and is located in Huddersfield town centre, alongside the picturesque Narrow Canal and tree-lined towpath, old bridges and converted mills.

It recently opened Student Central, a new £22.5m development that brings together learning and leisure facilities under one roof.

With a lower cost of living compared to other parts of the UK, Huddersfield is a popular student destination. Mid-way between Leeds and Manchester, it offers easy access to two major northern cities as well as the great outdoors. The Peak District National Park is also within easy reach, which offers activities such as hiking, rock climbing, caving, sailing, quad biking, horse riding and more.

Alumni of the university include the politician Lord David Blunkett, BBC Breakfast presenter Sally Nugent, the actor Rob James-Collier who played Thomas Barrow in Downton Abbey, and Adil Ray, who co-writes and stars in Citizen Khan.