University of Central Lancashire logo

University of Central Lancashire

Preston, UK · Ranking #43

The University of Central Lancashire (recently rebranded as University of Lancashire) is a large public research university based in Preston, North West England, with roots dating back to 1828. It offers a broad portfolio of undergraduate, postgraduate and research programmes across fields including arts and humanities, business, health sciences, engineering, computing, social sciences and medicine. UCLan emphasises practical learning, industry relevance and innovation, embedding employability skills within its curricula and leveraging links with employers to enhance real‑world readiness and career outcomes. Its students’ union supports a dynamic campus life with over 100 student‑led clubs and societies spanning academic, cultural, sporting and special interest groups. As a diverse institution with students from over 100 countries, UCLan fosters an inclusive community, offering personalised support services, research opportunities and global partnerships that broaden academic horizons and professional pathways.

University of Central Lancashire logo

University of Central Lancashire

About the university

The University of Central Lancashire (recently rebranded as University of Lancashire) is a large public research university based in Preston, North West England, with roots dating back to 1828. It offers a broad portfolio of undergraduate, postgraduate and research programmes across fields including arts and humanities, business, health sciences, engineering, computing, social sciences and medicine. UCLan emphasises practical learning, industry relevance and innovation, embedding employability skills within its curricula and leveraging links with employers to enhance real‑world readiness and career outcomes. Its students’ union supports a dynamic campus life with over 100 student‑led clubs and societies spanning academic, cultural, sporting and special interest groups. As a diverse institution with students from over 100 countries, UCLan fosters an inclusive community, offering personalised support services, research opportunities and global partnerships that broaden academic horizons and professional pathways.

Key information

  • Location: Preston, UK
  • Ranking #43
  • QS #801
  • THE #601
  • National ranking #50
  • Institution type: public

Popular faculties

  • Business & Management
  • Health & Social Care
  • Engineering & Technology
  • Computing & IT
  • Forensic Science
  • Journalism & Media
  • Architecture & Built Environment

Programs (29)

  • Computer Science
  • Engineering
  • Electrical Engineering
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Medicine
  • Nursing
  • Pharmacy
  • Business Administration
  • Economics
  • Finance and Accounting
  • Marketing
  • Tourism and Hospitality
  • Law
  • Political Science
  • International Relations
  • Philosophy
  • History
  • Linguistics
  • Biology
  • Chemistry
  • Physics
  • Mathematics
  • Environmental Science
  • Psychology
  • Sociology
  • Anthropology
  • Education
  • Fine Arts
  • Music

Student body

  • Total students: 35,000
  • Undergraduate: 26,000
  • Graduate: 8,000
  • International students: 25%

Campus life

Campus life at the University of Central Lancashire is characterised by an active and diverse student body, supported by a vibrant Students’ Union that organises events, social activities, campaigns and clubs across academic, cultural and special interest areas. With more than 100 clubs and societies, there are opportunities for creative pursuits, academic engagement, cultural representation and hobbies ranging from dance and orchestra to engineering and health sciences. Facilities such as the Sports Arena and Students’ Union bars provide spaces for recreation and community building, while the central Preston location offers access to city cultural life, entertainment and professional networks. UCLan emphasises support services, employability events and career fairs that connect students with employers and help transition into the workforce.

Housing & accommodation

Housing cost: £900 - £1,500 / per month

Housing options

  • On‑campus halls
  • Shared houses/flats
  • Private student accommodation.

Student clubs and organizations

  • Aaja Nachle Dance
  • Aerospace Engineering Society
  • African‑Caribbean Society
  • Anaesthesia Society
  • Architecture Society
  • Biomedical Sciences Society
  • Black Women in Medicine
  • British Red Cross Society
  • British Sign Language Society
  • Burmese Society
  • Cardiology Society
  • Centre Stage Musical Theatre Society
  • Chamber Orchestra Society — and 90+ more

Sports

  • UCLan Rugby League
  • Football Clubs
  • Netball Teams
  • Cycling Club
  • Tennis
  • Hockey
  • Athletics
  • UCLAN Motor Sports Racing Team

Career & internships

Employment rate: 95%

Partner companies

  • ASDA
  • Aston Martin
  • BBC
  • IBM
  • John Lewis Group
  • Marks & Spencer
  • Lancashire County Council
  • NHS

Internships: UCLan’s Careers & Employability Service supports students in securing internships, placements and work experience opportunities that complement academic learning. Through employer networking events, careers fairs and personalised guidance on CV writing and interview preparation, students connect with industry partners and develop practical skills that enhance graduate outcomes. The service also facilitates access to regional and national employers and supports transitions into professional roles after graduation.

Admission requirements

Required tests

  • IELTS
  • TOEFL

Required documents

  • High School Diploma/Equivalent
  • Academic Transcripts
  • English Proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL)
  • Personal Statement
  • References (typical UK requirements).

Minimum GPA: 3

Tuition costs

  • £14,000 - £25,000 / per year
  • Acceptance rate: 80.00%
  • Scholarships available: University of Central Lancashire offers a range of scholarships, bursaries and financial awards for international and UK students. These include merit‑based scholarships, support for specific subject areas and funding for research programmes. Eligibility criteria, application procedures and award values vary by programme and year, and details are published on the university’s official scholarships pages.

Quick facts

  • Founded: 1828
  • Teaching languages: English, english
  • Study formats: offline

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