The University was founded in 1876 as University College, Bristol. It was the first higher education institution in England to admit women on an equal basis to men.
The University has had a reputation for innovation since its founding in 1876. Our research tackles some of the world’s most pressing issues in areas as diverse as infection and immunity, human rights, climate change, and cryptography and information security.
- Bristol consistently ranks in the world’s top 100 and UK’s top ten universities in league tables that draw on information about both research and teaching excellence.
- One of the most popular UK universities, it is attracting on average eight top-quality applicants for every place.
- We attract students from all over the world, creating a rich and exciting international community. We are also lucky to be located in a vibrant, dynamic city with a reputation for creativity and sustainability.
- Bristol is ranked 10th in the UK, and 62nd in the world, in the latest QS World University Rankings (2022).
- Bristol graduates are highly sought after by employers in the UK and overseas. The University is in the UK’s top 10 in the latest QS Graduate Employability Rankings (2020).
- We offer more than 600 undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in a comprehensive choice of subjects. We also run foundation programmes, short-term study options and summer schools.
- Bristol is a friendly and diverse place to study. The University is home to more than 27,000 undergraduates and postgraduates. Around 25% of our students are international, with more than 150 countries represented.
- The University currently has40 Fellows of the Royal Society and 15 of the British Academy – a remarkable achievement for a relatively small institution.
