Founded in 1900, Birmingham represented a new model for higher education. The University of Birmingham was established by Queen Victoria by Royal Charter in 1900 and was the UK’s first civic or ‘redbrick’ university. This was England’s first civic university, where students from all religions and backgrounds were accepted on an equal basis
It was a founder member of the National Union of Students and the first university in the country to:
- Build on a campus model – occupying a 276-acre green parkland around the University.
- Create a purpose-built students’ union building
- Incorporate a Medical School – now part of our College of Medical and Dental Sciences
- Open a Faculty of Commerce – which makes our Business School the longest established in the country
- Provide a women’s hall of residence – far-sighted in the early 1900’s; Birmingham continues to welcome students from all backgrounds, nations and religions
- Offer a sporting option for all students – sport and sporting excellence, along with music, are the cornerstones of Birmingham’s cultural life
Birmingham is constantly developing and evolving in its desire to become a leading global university. This is being achieved through our enhanced research power and reach; the distinctiveness of our exceptional student experience; the breadth and depth of our academic portfolio; our size and the extent of our global networks.
University of Birmingham is a global community with students of over 145 nationalities. We believe our diversity is a source of strength that encourages the flow of ideas, innovation and debate at the heart of our academic mission.
The world class research and facilities at Birmingham University facilitated the work of 8 Nobel Prize Winners. University is proud of their achievements and the global impact of their research.
Birmingham was named University of the Year 2014 in The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide in October 2013. Outstanding performance across the league tables and Birmingham’s bold and sector-leading initiatives were recognized by this prestigious accolade.
