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Posted Dec. 11, 2024

University of Southampton

Our list of Russell Group universities wouldn’t be complete without the University of Southampton. The research-intensive institution is actually a founding member of the group, and boasts impressive rankings to boot – but more on that later!

Home to a diverse community of students from more than 130 countries, the university has the experts, facilities and support that appeals to postgraduates looking to study at masters or PhD level.

Introducing the University of Southampton

Located in the historic city of Southampton, the University of Southampton has grown into a global institution renowned for research and teaching across several disciplines since it was founded back in 1862.

The university started life as the Hartley Institution, which has a colourful past of its own. Here the University of Southampton shares more about its humble beginnings:

“It all started with a local eccentric – Henry Robinson Hartley. Hartley was the heir to a family of Southampton wine merchants. A studious and reclusive character, he had turned his back on the family business, and when he died he left his estate to the Corporation of Southampton to promote the study and advancement of science and learning. The result was the formation of The Hartley Institution, which opened in the High Street, below the Bargate in 1862.”

Just three years after opening its doors, the Hartley Institution had some 700 students, many of which studied part time. The institution later became the Hartley College then the Hartley University College before achieving official university status as the University of Southampton in 1952.

The university now consists of six closely-connected campuses throughout the city of Southampton. You’ll also find sites in nearby Winchester, the Malaysian city of Iskandar Puteri, and Delhi in India.

Rankings and reputation

The university excels on the national and global scale. It was ranked 14th best university in the UK in the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2025 and 80th on the planet by the QS World University Rankings 2025.

The University of Southampton is also well known for its excellent graduate employability, with the latest data from the Higher Education Statistics Agency’s Graduate Outcomes survey reporting that 97% of its graduates were in employment or further study after completing their courses.

Another selling point is its global alumni network, which proudly offers one-to-one guidance and support for up to five years after graduation.

Course options and opportunities

The heritage of the University of Southampton has always reflected a commitment to addressing real-world challenges. So, it should come as no surprise that the university is renowned for its research excellence, postgraduate course options and outstanding opportunities.

The university currently offers more than 200 masters degrees and other taught courses, covering everything from accounting, arts and humanities to web design, engineering and social sciences. It also provides over 90 PhD courses to choose from. 

The institution offers several scholarships, awards and funding opportunities for students from all walks of life, including postgraduate scholarships for international students.

Life as a University of Southampton postgrad

As a vibrant and multifaceted institution, the University of Southampton allows postgraduate students to blend academia with a truly enriching experience outside of the classroom.

The city of Southampton is a lively backdrop for postgraduate student life, with its bustling waterfront, cultural landmarks, and huge variety of dining, shopping and entertainment options providing plenty to see and do.

Students can enjoy the great outdoors at their leisure, with centrally located green spaces (including Southampton Common) and the nearby New Forest, just some of the haunts within easy reach. The city’s maritime heritage is of course a must-explore too.

The university’s active postgraduate community is certain to keep you busy, with plenty of opportunities for networking and socialising through clubs, societies and events.

Find out more today

Are you ready to find out what postgraduate life at the University of Southampton is really about? Browse postgraduate courses at the University of Southampton to get started.

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