University of Leicester

The University of Leicester, established in 1921, is celebrated for its pioneering research and inspiring teaching. Known for transformative discoveries like genetic fingerprinting and the identification of King Richard III, Leicester has earned a reputation for innovation and impact.

Research excellence is at the heart of Leicester’s achievements, placing it among the UK’s top 30 universities for research quality, according to the Research Excellence Framework 2021 (REF21). With over 60 years of leadership in space research, the university has contributed more than 90 instruments to international space missions, including equipment on six active missions - a record unmatched by any other UK university.

The university’s dynamic student life is enhanced by a campus just minutes from the city centre, offering a wealth of shopping, dining, and cultural experiences. With a welcoming atmosphere, strong international presence, and affordable cost of living, Leicester is an ideal place to study and live.

Leicester’s prime location in central England provides easy access to major cities, including London which is just an hour away by train. The city’s multicultural atmosphere is mirrored on campus, with a vibrant, close-knit international community representing over 150 countries.

University of Leicester students on Postgraduate Search say:

“University of Leicester is an amazing place to study as well as a great place to get the full student life experience.”

“Very good university. Great faculties, everything is good.”

“It is a student centric university and they actually listen to students which is nice.”

Postgraduate

The University of Leicester is a top 40 UK university (Complete University Guide, 2026) offering a dynamic and diverse range of postgraduate learning opportunities, supported by world-leading research groups. Its specialised academic programs attract students from across the globe.

The university’s postgraduate degrees provide a transformative experience, enriching students’ lives and enhancing their prospects for meaningful careers and further academic pursuits. The vibrant postgraduate community is at the forefront of addressing some of today’s most urgent social, economic, political, and scientific challenges, pushing the boundaries of research excellence and impact.

Ranking 33^rd in the UK (Complete University Guide, 2026) the University of Leicester offers over 100 taught postgraduate study programmes, including master’s degrees and postgraduate certificates and diplomas. The doctoral college offers a range of PhD, MPhil and professional doctorate opportunities.

The university strives to empower all its students to become Citizens of Change. Courses provide the specialist subject knowledge and an international outlook demanded by employers around the globe. Course content is of the highest quality and meets the benchmarks required for graduates to successfully embark on a competitive and fulfilling career.

Teaching staff at the University of Leicester are enthusiastic, highly qualified and extensively experienced. Many have worked and taught overseas and benefit postgraduate students through their expertise and professional connections. Learners benefit from significant contact time with their supervisors and mentors, allowing plenty of opportunities for feedback and a personalised approach to their studies.

Student researchers benefit from the University of Leicester’s wealth of academic resources and superb facilities, both during their studies and in their careers beyond. Upon graduation, students will join the growing ranks of leading professional alumni, who can be found working in a variety of private and public sector professions around the world.

University of Leicester students on Postgraduate Search say:

“My favourite part of Leicester is how supportive the staff are and they really make the effort to know you personally and support you in your best interest.”

“The best part was the supportive academic environment, with passionate lecturers and plenty of resources like well-equipped libraries and study spaces.”

“The course is organised and set out nicely.”

Entry requirements vary by course, so prospective postgraduate students should refer to the University of Leicester website to familiarise themselves with any course-specific information before applying.

For most master’s and doctoral degree programmes, applicants need a good undergraduate honours degree, ideally a 2:1 or above, in a subject related to their chosen postgraduate course. Some degrees, particularly business-focused courses, will also accept professional qualifications. 

The University of Leicester is dedicated to recognizing talent and nurturing potential from a range of student backgrounds and experiences. In light of this, students with lower or alternate qualifications may be considered with respect to relevant professional or personal experience.

International

At the University of Leicester, postgraduate courses are taught in English. Students whose first language is not English must demonstrate a minimum level of English proficiency before admission. A range of English language tests are accepted, and a common entry requirement is an overall IELTS (Academic) score of 6.5, or an equivalent qualification.

The University of Leicester’s strengths span many academic disciplines, and its commitment to research excellence is consistent across the board. New postgraduate students can be confident that the content and teaching of their chosen course will be at the forefront of latest knowledge and best practice.

With over 100 taught master’s courses, including MSc, MA, PGCert, and PGDip qualifications, the University of Leicester caters to a diverse range of academic backgrounds and career aspirations. There are many highly ranked departments at the university, delivering pioneering work across a broad spectrum of academic fields.

For those interested in research, the university offers a wide variety of postgraduate research opportunities, allowing students to join a dynamic research community dedicated to producing impactful work for today’s society. From viruses and disease to air quality and preserving the natural world, as well as ensuring social justice for all, the University of Leicester’s breadth of research leads the way.

For students who require more flexibility to their postgraduate study, the University of Leicester provides a selection of part-time programmes, as well as online and distance learning courses, making advanced study accessible to students worldwide.

University of Leicester students on Postgraduate Search say:

“Getting involved in research projects has allowed me to apply my knowledge, develop practical skills, and contribute to new discoveries.”

“The support and resources are amazing and the tutors are very knowledgeable.”

“Engaging with new ideas and developing a deeper understanding of your field.”

The rate of University of Leicester postgraduates in graduate-level employment 15 months after completion of their study programme is 93% (HESA Graduate Outcomes Survey), indicating the university’s success in ensuring that its postgraduate cohort is thoroughly prepared for their lives and careers after education.

Employability is built into course curricula, and many postgraduate courses also include the option of an industry placement, equipping students with meaningful practical experience to excel in their careers.

The university maintains strong connections with local and national employers, who frequently offer subject-specific lectures, engaging guest speakers, and workshops. These opportunities, along with networking events, open doors to valuable work placements, supported by dedicated university teams.

The University of Leicester’s careers and employability team provides students with lifelong access to services and events, ensuring a smooth transition into their graduate roles. Students can book appointments with careers consultants via the MyCareers service, to which all new students are automatically registered. The team can offer guidance with job applications, interview training, CV writing, and coaching for setting up businesses and start-ups.

In-house recruitment consultancy Unitemps helps students find part-time work to fit around their studies. Unitemps provides an ideal place to look for flexible work within the university and in the local area. 

University of Leicester students on Postgraduate Search say:

“University offers wide range of career opportunities and student support which is really important in international student's point of view.”

“Building a professional network through internships, guest lectures, and career fairs.”

“My curriculum seems career ready.”

Student union

Leicester's Students’ Union (SU) is the representative voice of its student membership. It works to establish a positive and constructive dialogue between students and staff, and functions as a hub for social engagement, offering clubs, societies and a schedule of events and activities.

Clubs and societies

Students can join over 200 clubs and special interest societies covering a broad range of areas, from film, arts and theatre clubs to national cultural societies, faith and language groups. There are societies for politics, campaigning, hobbies and student media, and an extensive selection of casual and competitive sporting societies.

If a society doesn’t exist yet, students are encouraged to create their own, with the SU offering their full support.

City life

The university campus offers the perfect blend of convenience and community. It’s close enough to the city centre for easy access but provides a peaceful retreat with its own unique atmosphere.

Leicester is known for its affordability, diversity and vibrant cultural scene, hosting major events like the largest Diwali celebrations outside of India and the colourful Caribbean Carnival. For those who love shopping, Leicester offers everything from big brands to quirky boutiques, with plenty of restaurants, cafés and bars nearby for when students need a break.

University of Leicester students on Postgraduate Search say:

“The vibrant campus life, with diverse clubs and events, made it a great place to meet people and grow personally.”

“There are so many societies that you are spoilt for choice and students who are in the committees are super friendly.”

“Campus feels nice and there is a good variety in societies.”

Accommodation

The University of Leicester guarantees university-managed accommodation for all new postgraduate students who apply for a room before 1^st September. 

Postgraduate accommodation is available at both The City and The Village. The City, which is just a short walk to campus and the city centre, features the brand-new Freemen’s Common neighbourhood, which is vibrant new development in which postgraduate students can live and enjoy.

The Village is surrounded by an abundance of green space with a free university shuttle bus pass for ease of travel to and from campus. Both sites offer self-catered accommodation options.

Facilities

The University of Leicester is a well-established institution which has steadily expanded its infrastructure to become a world-class campus. Specialist equipment and technologies allow students to hone their practical skills, while the David Wilson library offers an expanse of books, journals and study spaces.

Through intelligent investment of funds, the university provides modernised teaching and research facilities, state-of-the-art laboratories, and workshops equipped with industry standard equipment and the latest technologies.

The recently opened Freemen’s Common represents a £150 million investment in the future of its student experience, and the £20 million refurbishment of the student’s union indicates the effort being put into extracurricular enrichment.

University of Leicester students on Postgraduate Search say:

“Great location and facilities.”

“The university has a lot of options for spaces to study for post-graduate students.”

“Access to valuable resources like libraries, labs, and online databases.”

The University of Leicester values the importance of providing excellent student support, and works hard to provide a range of free and confidential services to encourage a positive and supportive learning environment to help students to achieve their academic and personal goals.

The student support services team provides resources and guidance on issues such as health and wellbeing, childcare, academic support, disability services, financial assistance and more.

The students’ union offers further support, including a peer mentoring scheme to support students through the opening weeks and months of university. Students can download a free SafeZone app to summon first aid, security or safety assistance at any time. 

The University of Leicester website acts as a hub of useful information and online support resources. Many of the university’s student initiatives are featured online where students can engage with the student support services team, book appointments or even find contact information for more specialised services.

Research students

Research students at the University of Leicester have access to both the student and staff support services, reflecting their role as both learners and professionals. Their research supervisor is also on hand to offer academic and pastoral support throughout their degree.

University of Leicester students on Postgraduate Search say:

“Best Student support from emotional wellbeing to career development.”

“The best part is the support and location.”

“The best definitely is the supportive environment.”

The University of Leicester appreciates that postgraduate course fees can be a significant financial consideration. Each year, it offers a comprehensive programme of financial support options for new and returning postgraduate students, ensuring that everyone has access to the resources needed to study in confidence.

Scholarships and bursaries are available for domestic and international students. Eligibility criteria vary, but may be based on financial need, academic excellence, or residency. Sports and music scholarships are also available.

Prospective students are encouraged to check the university’s fees and funding pages to check eligibility requirements and familiarise themselves with key dates and deadlines.

Funded studentship opportunities are available for research students.

Taught

The University of Leicester offers a range of postgraduate taught programmes, including master’s degrees and postgraduate certificates and diplomas. Studied full-time, master’s degrees are typically completed in one to two years, although there are also part-time and distance learning options available.

Taught courses may be studied in their own right or act as a pathway into subsequent doctoral study.

Research

The University of Leicester is a research-driven institution, with a progressive and future-oriented approach towards its postgraduate courses. There is a comprehensive selection of research topics to participate in, tackling some of the most significant challenges faced by humanity as a society and as a species.

The university’s postgraduate community of around 5,000 students and researchers is central to its research output, and undertakes much of the ground-breaking work which is shared with the wider research community.

Distance learning

The University of Leicester offers a continually evolving programme of postgraduate qualifications and study modes. It has invested in developing the successful and effective delivery of distance learning courses, and has over 30 years of experience in this teaching method.

Distance learning students benefit from flexible study, allowing them to organise their degree around existing employment and personal commitments, as well as complete a course of study from anywhere in the world.