Ellison Pl, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 8ST, United Kingdom
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Establishment Year
1969
National Students
32,565
International Students
36,000
Acceptance Rate
49%
Distance From City
15 minutes from Newcastle Central Station
QS World University Ranking
#550
Times Higher Education Ranking
401–500
Northumbria University is a public university in Newcastle upon Tyne, UK, known for its strong emphasis on research, employability, and industry partnerships. Established in 1969, it has campuses in Newcastle, London, and Amsterdam. The university offers a wide range of programs across business, engineering, law, health sciences, and the arts. It has a diverse student body of over 30,000 from 130+ countries and is recognized for its graduate employability and research excellence. With modern facilities, a vibrant student life, and strong industry links, Northumbria provides a dynamic learning environment.
(1969) Origins and Establishment
Northumbria University traces its origins back to 1880 with the founding of Rutherford College in Newcastle upon Tyne. Over time, it merged with several institutions, including the College of Art & Industrial Design and the Municipal College of Commerce. In 1969, these colleges combined to form Newcastle Polytechnic. The institution gained university status in 1992, officially becoming Northumbria University. Since then, it has grown into a leading modern university, known for its strong research output, industry links, and high employability rates.
Modern Day Development
Northumbria University has undergone significant modernization and expansion in recent years, enhancing its reputation as a leading UK university. It has heavily invested in state-of-the-art facilities, including the City Campus redevelopment, cutting-edge research centers, and the award-winning Sport Central complex. Academically, the university has strengthened its research profile, ranking highly in the Research Excellence Framework (REF 2021) and forming strong industry collaborations with global companies like Nissan, IBM, and the NHS. It has also expanded its international presence, establishing a London Campus and a European base in Amsterdam.

Northumbria University aims to create a world-class learning environment that empowers students with knowledge, skills, and opportunities to succeed globally while driving research and innovation.

Complete University Guide Ranking
Ranked 34th overall
QS World University Ranking
Ranked 535
Times Higher Education Ranking
Ranked 401–500
Guardian University Guide
Ranked 38

Sting
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Sir Jonathan Ive
Former Chief Design Officer at Apple Inc

Victoria Pendleton
Olympic Gold Medalist in Cycling

Steve Cram
Former Middle-Distance Runner and Sports Broadcaster

Andy Bird
Former Chairman of Walt Disney International
Ranked highly in Research Excellence Framework (REF 2021)
Award-winning Sport Central facility and modern campus investments