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Our global reputation

Since we first introduced overseas examinations in 1837, the University of London’s purpose has been to pioneer unique forms of education and research that transform lives and society. Today, with students in 190 countries, we remain a leading force in transnational higher education.

Our strategic aims

Our aim is to enrich our academic work in the pursuit of excellence in education, research and knowledge exchange through collaboration with our Member Institutions; developing academic programmes, networks and partnerships that further our federation’s goals across London, the UK and internationally. 

Our ambitious 2020-2025 Strategy, ‘Transforming Education… Creating Futures’ addresses new challenges by harnessing the strengths of our history and forging a path for a world class university in a modern, global community.

The strategic vision for 2014-2019 was to make a unique contribution to learning and research-led scholarship through our unrivalled network of Member Institutions, our global reach and reputation, and the breadth of our high-quality innovative academic services and infrastructure.

You can study with the University of London, anywhere in the world.

Worldwide access

The University of London is proud of its history of global engagement since its founding in 1836. The first UK university to open its doors to all regardless of gender or creed, we were also the first to enable students to take our degrees anywhere in the world.

We educate students from all backgrounds - without regard to race or colour, nationality, national or ethnic origin, sex, marital status, religion, age, sexual orientation or disability. The University is committed to sharing and exchanging knowledge and expertise with academics, professionals, their institutions, their organisations and their communities as part of our societal engagement wherever this is relevant to local needs.

When you study with us, you will join over 45,000 students in every corner of the globe studying more than 110 different programmes.

The flexibility of our programmes allows us to fit your studies around your lifestyle, choose how to pace your studies and study independently by distance learning. You can also attend face-to-face classes at a Recognised Teaching Centre.

Our former students have won Nobel prizes, governed countries, and written great works of literature. They also work in the legal profession, in finance and banking, and as business leaders and managers.

Read more about how the University strives to make all aspects of university life accessible.

Academic Quality

The University of London is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the UK and is internationally regarded as a centre of academic excellence.

The programmes you study and all the materials provided are created and assessed by the University of London's Federation members, which have an international reputation for their teaching and research. The high standing of our qualifications is valued and recognised by universities, employers and specific professional and statutory bodies.

Read more about our commitment to academic quality and how the University is run.

Opportunity

We recognise that embracing equality, diversity and inclusion is critical to the success of the University and that we can only achieve our vision of being a world-class, forward looking, and ambitious university by recruiting, supporting, and developing both students and staff from a wide and diverse range of backgrounds.

We offer a diverse range of career opportunities at the University of London, from supporting students to supporting the growth and expansion of the organisation in one of our central support teams such as property and facilities management, finance and planning or one of the many libraries.