University of Kent

About us

Location Canterbury, United Kingdom Funding Type Public
No of Students 19303 Establishment University
Founded In 1965 Estimated Cost of Living 9207 GBP
Address Canterbury, Kent, England, CT2 7NZ

History

Origins

A university in the city of Canterbury was first considered in 1947, when an anticipated growth in student numbers led several residents to seek the creation of a new university, including Kent. However, the plans never came to fruition. A decade later both population growth and greater demand for university places led to a reconsideration. In 1959 the Education Committee of Kent County Council explored the creation of a new university, formally accepting the proposal unanimously on 24 February 1960.

Two months later the Education Committee agreed to seek a site at or near Canterbury, given the historical associations of the city, subject to the support of Canterbury City Council.

By 1962 a site was found at Beverley Farm, straddling the then boundary between the City of Canterbury and the administrative county of Kent. The university's original name, chosen in 1962, was the University of Kent at Canterbury, reflecting the fact that the campus straddled the boundary between the county borough of Canterbury and Kent County Council.

At the time it was the normal practice for universities to be named after the town or city whose boundaries they were in, with both "University of Kent" and "University of Canterbury" initially proposed. The name adopted reflected the support of both the city and county authorities; as well as the existence of the University of Canterbury in New Zealand, which officially opposed the use of a name too similar to its own. The abbreviation "UKC" became a popular abbreviation for the university.

Why?

7 reasons you should study in Kent

Study in a historic city

Uncover a city bursting with history and discover why the beautiful ancient city of Canterbury is one of the brightest jewels in Kent’s crown. The historic hotspot is less than an hour from London by train, with gorgeous medieval streets. At the heart of the walled city is the iconic Canterbury Cathedral, which remains a popular pilgrimage site and is a calm oasis in the bohemian city – perfect for artists attending The University of Creative Arts looking to be inspired. Canterbury Christ Church University is one of only a handful of universities with a campus in a World Heritage Site, whilst the University of Kent with its rolling green campus overlooks the stunning city and has regular bus links to and from the city centre.

Make Medway your home this year

With locations across Kent, Medway is a great place to call home. And, with its Historic Dockyard Chatham and Rochester Castle you'll be spoilt for choice of things to see and do. The Medway Campus of Canterbury Christ Church University, along with the University of Kent and The University of Greenwich, is part of Universities at Medway, situated on the Chatham Maritime site in the heart of the Medway towns and within easy access of London - just 45 minutes away by train

Let literature come to life...

Studying English literature? See the iconic Canterbury Tales brought to life or explore the literary heritage of the Medway towns where Dickens lived most of his life. Dotted across Chatham and Rochester you will find the places of inspiration still sitting amongst its characterful streets. Track down the Dickens literary links on an expert-led tour or a self-guided trail and see for yourself the Six Poor Travellers House and Miss Haversham’s Restoration House. Austen, Dickens, Chaucer and even Shakespeare - they've all created masterpieces in the splendid Garden of England

Chill out in Chatham and rock out in Rochester

If you wind up studying in Medway, be sure to check out Dockside Outlet Centre for a great restaurant scene with tons of shops and a multi-screen cinema complex that are all just a hop, skip and jump from campus. Or why not gather up your housemates (and fellow gin aficionados) and take a tasting tour of the Copper Rivet Distillery to celebrate the start of term? With regular music festivals throughout the year and seasonal food and drink celebrations in nearby Rochester, even high speed links to London won't tempt you away when the end of term rolls around.

City sounds, stunning scenery and social life

Canterbury is a great place to socialise and when it comes to restaurants in the city there's an abundance to choose from. Sample The Goods Shed - an artisan farmers' market featuring seasonal, local food, all produced in Kent. Meander through the winding, cobbled streets where you will find scores of great restaurants and live entertainment from The Marlowe Theatre and the occasional popup restaurant, alongside an array of great Shepherd Neame pubs, bars and even Britain's Oldest Brewery close-by in Faversham. Just remember to keep some of your student loan back for the end of term celebrations!

The beach is closer than you think

With Canterbury just 10 minutes from some of Kent’s stunning beaches (trust us, you'll be glad of a beach on your doorstep come summer time) you can choose from miles of peaceful bays and hidden coves, perfect for some al fresco revision! And with sandy beaches, summer festivals and outdoor stages at Dreamland Margate (Kent's favourite retro theme park), why not hire a bike via Click2Cycle and follow the coast, taking in Turner Contemporary and the vibrant seaside towns of Ramsgate, Broadstairs and Margate for the ultimate post-exam escape