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Posted March 12, 2025

University of Leeds

As a fully fledged member of the prestigious Russell Group, the University of Leeds represents the crème de la crème of the higher education world. 

Alongside its revered undergraduate courses, the university’s postgraduate programs provide life-changing opportunities across numerous fields for those looking to make a real difference when continuing their studies, returning to education or altering their career trajectory. Read on to discover why joining this pioneering research community could be for you.

Introducing the University of Leeds

The University of Leeds started life as the Leeds School of Medicine (founded in 1831) and the Yorkshire College of Science (established later in 1874), before obtaining university status as the University of Leeds in 1904.

From the very beginning, it was a pioneer, with its foundation making the study of medicine more accessible to those in the north of England. Prior to this, would-be medical students would have to venture to Scotland, London or abroad to complete their training. The institution was also one of the first to welcome students from all religions and backgrounds.

The push for diversity and educational accessibility remains a proud part of its heritage, with the university’s multicultural campus currently home to over 14,400 international students from some 137 different countries.

Rankings and reputation

The University of Leeds’ global reputation is renowned. It is famed for notable alumni across various fields of work, not to mention its world-leading research and thriving postgraduate community.

The opportunity to gain skills, build experience and broaden your horizons at the University of Leeds is undeniable, making it an attractive option for postgraduates from all over the planet. But, how does this translate in the university league tables? We’ll let the University of Leeds share more about its latest rankings:

“The University of Leeds is ranked 123rd in the new Times Higher Education World University Rankings, moving up six places from last year and securing its highest position for more than a decade. Out of 2,092 universities worldwide, Leeds is ranked 123rd for 2025. Securing an overall score of 64.5, Leeds is also ranked 15th out of 107 UK institutions.”

The university placed 31st in a rundown of the most international universities in the world 2024. 90% of the research its postgraduates submitted was also described as “world-leading” or “internationally excellent” by the Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021.

Course options and opportunities

The University of Leeds offers a number of postgraduate course options, including Master of Arts (MA), Master of Science (MSc), Master of Research (MRes), Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip) and Postgraduate Certificate (PGCert) qualifications. PhD opportunities are plentiful at the university, with fully funded scholarships also available.

Life as a University of Leeds postgrad

The vibrant city of Leeds is the perfect place to pursue your postgraduate studies. Leeds is a student-friendly city with lots to do, see and love. It’s super affordable too, with the cost of living for students lower than the national average.

As a bustling city, there are plenty of opportunities to top up your funds, while graduate job opportunities provide yet more reasons to settle in Leeds. There’s much to do beyond the city centre, with the great outdoors ready and waiting to be explored via parks, gardens, historic houses and estates, and of course the famous Yorkshire Dales, which offers miles and miles of trails and stunning scenery.

Find out more today

Browse postgraduate programs at the University of Leeds and other Leeds-based institutions (including Leeds Beckett University, Leeds Trinity University and Leeds Arts University) for details or sign up for their Postgraduate Virtual Open Day for further insights.

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