University of Bristol

About us

Location Bristol, United Kingdom Funding Type Public
No of Students 25955 Establishment University
Founded In 1909 Estimated Cost of Living 9207 GBP
Address Beacon House, Queens Road, Bristol, BS8 1QU, UK.

History

Before the University of Bristol, there was University College, Bristol

University College, Bristol existed from 1876 to 1909 and was the precursor to the University of Bristol.

Its history can be traced back to the efforts of John Percival, headmaster of Clifton College, to press for the establishment of such an institution. In 1872, Percival wrote to the Oxford colleges observing that the provinces lacked a university culture. The following year he produced a pamphlet called 'The Connection of the Universities and the Great Towns', which was well-received by Benjamin Jowett, Master of Balliol College, Oxford. Jowett was to become a significant figure, both philosophically and financially, in the establishment of University College, Bristol.

In June 1874, a meeting took place at Bristol's Victoria Rooms 'to promote a School of Science and Literature for the West of England'. Percival and Jowett spoke at the meeting and won the support of Albert Fry and Lewis Fry, members of an influential and affluent local family.

University College, Bristol finally opened its doors at 9 am on Tuesday 10 October 1876 in rented premises at 32 Park Row. Initially, there were two professors and five lecturers offering courses in 15 subjects. The College was open to men and women on the same basis (except in medicine). During the first session, 99-day students registered (30 men and 69 women) and 238 evening ones (143 men and 95 women).

Why?

Why choose Bristol?

Learning and teaching at Bristol

Bristol's world-class learning experience encourages students to become independent thinkers, equipped to respond to the intellectual, social, and personal challenges they encounter throughout their lives and careers and become leaders in their chosen fields.

Research-informed teaching

At Bristol, you will be taught by internationally renowned academics whose research directly influences your course. Our teaching is innovative, informed by researchers at the forefront of developments in their field.

Facilities and resources

We offer state-of-the-art facilities at Bristol and are continually investing in new technology. With nine libraries, new study spaces, and major campus developments underway, it's an exciting time to join us.

Careers and employability

University of Bristol graduates are highly employable and in demand. We're in the top five universities targeted by top employers for the fifth year in a row (High Fliers report 2020)

Global opportunities

Every year more than 500 Bristol students travel overseas to study or work abroad as part of their degree. Our partnership institutions span the globe, so where do you want to go?

Get connected and secure your future

Our strong industry partnerships mean our students have access to collaborative networks, training opportunities, and resources, both while studying here and after graduation. Our alumni are among the highest-paid and in the top five most targeted by UK employers (High Fliers 2020).

Be taught by world-leading researchers

Learn from our internationally renowned academics and join our thriving interdisciplinary research community. Access opportunities to connect, collaborate, and showcase your work to peers and the world.

Enjoy Bristol city culture

Immerse yourself in Bristol's vibrant and artistic atmosphere while studying and beyond. Our city is home to a thriving economy centered on creative media, technology, electronics, and aerospace engineering industries, providing a range of educational and professional opportunities.

Make an impact

Our academics tackle real-world, global challenges. From the search for a vaccine for COVID-19 to climate change. Bristol’s Research and Enterprise Development team amplify research impact in many ways, including brokering business-collaborations and facilitating spin-outs.