Exploring Student Numbers: University Of Chester's Size

The University of Chester is one of the oldest higher education institutions in the UK, having celebrated its 182nd year of teaching in 2025. The university has over 14,000 students, with sources giving exact figures of 14,365, 14,900, 15,000, 19,000 and 20,000. The university offers a wide range of courses, with over 400 course combinations available across foundation, undergraduate and postgraduate levels.

The University of Chester has around 14,000-20,000 students

The University of Chester has a student population of between 14,000 and 20,000. The university offers over 400 course combinations in a wide variety of subjects, with most degrees including a work-based learning module. The university's courses emphasise practical learning to enhance employment prospects, with industry placements or overseas opportunities ranging from five weeks to one year.

The University of Chester is the fifth oldest higher education establishment in England, founded in 1839 as a Church of England training college. It gained full university status in 2005 and now occupies six campuses in and around Chester, one in Warrington, and a University Centre in Shrewsbury.

The university has a diverse student body, with 10% international students from 130 countries worldwide. It provides a vibrant, inclusive, and safe environment for those travelling from overseas to study, offering a range of support services to ensure a smooth transition to life in the UK. The university also has a strong commitment to student safety, with 24-hour security and CCTV on all campuses.

The University of Chester offers a well-rounded student experience, with opportunities for personal and professional development beyond the classroom. Students can join one of the over 100 sports teams, learn a language, or take part in various societies, such as the Debating Society, the Drama Society, and the International Development Society.

It offers over 400 course combinations

The University of Chester is one of the oldest higher education providers in the UK, celebrating over 180 years of teaching. The university offers over 400 course combinations across a wide variety of subjects, ranging from foundation to postgraduate level. With a focus on practical learning and enhancing employment prospects, Chester provides an extensive range of single and combined honours courses.

Students can choose from various course options, including international and merit-based scholarships at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. The university has a strong emphasis on practical learning, with industry placements and overseas opportunities ranging from five weeks to one year. Most undergraduate degrees include a work-based learning module, allowing students to gain valuable work experience.

The University of Chester's Graduate Entry Medicine programme is a unique offering, allowing students with any Bachelor's degree to pursue a career in medicine. The 4-year programme leads to an MBChB degree, enabling registration with the GMC and the ability to practise in the UK and abroad.

Chester's courses are taught across multiple campuses, including the historic Parkgate Road Campus and four other sites in and around Chester. The university also has a presence in Warrington and Shrewsbury, offering specialist sites with state-of-the-art facilities.

With approximately 15,000 students from diverse backgrounds and over 1,700 staff members, the University of Chester provides a vibrant and inclusive learning environment. The university is committed to ensuring student success and development, offering a range of support services, extracurricular activities, and placement opportunities to enhance the student experience.

It has 6 campuses

The University of Chester has a long history, dating back to its founding in 1839 as the UK's first purpose-built teacher training college. It has since expanded significantly, now boasting six campuses and a University Centre in Shrewsbury. With over 14,000 students, Chester is a diverse and vibrant institution, welcoming students from a range of backgrounds and offering an extensive selection of courses.

The main campus, Parkgate Road Campus, is located just north of the City Walls in Chester and offers a mix of Victorian and modern buildings. It features a range of facilities, including a fitness centre, sports hall, swimming pool, science and language laboratories, and a bar. The campus also houses the historic Old College, which includes a chapel built by the original students in the 1840s.

The University has expanded beyond the main campus, with several departments located off-site but still within walking distance. The Department of English, for example, is housed in a Grade II-listed former Victorian vicarage, while the Law School can be found at 67 Liverpool Road. The University has also developed the Kingsway Campus in Newton, incorporating innovative green features such as ground source heating.

In addition to its Chester campuses, the University has expanded its reach to nearby towns and cities. In 2002, the University acquired the higher education faculty and campus of Warrington Collegiate Institute, establishing the Warrington Campus. This smaller campus has strong ties to Granada Television and is also the training ground for the rugby league team, The Warrington Wolves. The University of Chester's presence in Warrington provides a convenient option for local students and contributes to the town's vibrant educational community.

Furthermore, the University Centre Shrewsbury was established in 2015 as a joint venture with Shropshire Council. This sister institution, located in the Guildhall and Rowley's House, offers a range of courses and provides a unique educational experience for students in the Shropshire area.

With its six campuses, the University of Chester has a wide reach and offers a diverse range of facilities and courses to its students. Each campus has its own unique characteristics, contributing to the rich academic and cultural life of the University and the surrounding communities.

It's one of the oldest higher education institutions in the UK

The University of Chester is a public university located in Chester, England. With approximately 14,900-19,000 students, it is one of the oldest higher education institutions in the UK. The university was founded in 1839 as Chester Diocesan Training College, making it the fifth-oldest higher education establishment in England. It was the UK's first purpose-built teacher training college, which makes it one of the longest-established higher education institutions in the country.

The University of Chester has a rich history that spans nearly two centuries. In 1839, the institution was founded by a group of local leading figures in the Church of England, including future Prime Ministers William Ewart Gladstone and the 14th Earl of Derby. It was opened as the first dedicated teacher training college in the United Kingdom. The college's original buildings, located on the Parkgate Road site just outside the City Walls, were opened in 1842 by Gladstone for its first intake of ten male student teachers.

Chester formally became an affiliated college of the University of Liverpool in 1921, which allowed Chester's students to use Liverpool's facilities and receive qualifications awarded by the University of Liverpool. In the following decades, the college continued to grow and expand its academic offerings. Women were first admitted in 1961, and in 1963, the college's name was changed to Chester College of Education.

In 1974, the college expanded its academic offerings beyond teacher education to include Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees. To reflect this broader remit, the institution was renamed Chester College of Higher Education. In the early 1990s, the college established the School of Nursing and Midwifery (now the Faculty of Health and Social Care) and began offering additional degrees, including Bachelor of Theology, HNDs, and postgraduate courses such as master's and PhD programmes.

In 1996, Chester earned the right to be called University College Chester, but this title was short-lived due to changes in government requirements for university colleges. However, in 2003, Chester was granted its own degree-awarding powers, and in 2005, it was awarded full university status, becoming the University of Chester.

Today, the University of Chester has six campuses and a University Centre in Shrewsbury, offering a range of foundation, undergraduate, and postgraduate courses across various subjects. The university's long history and establishment as the first dedicated teacher training college in the UK contribute to its reputation as one of the oldest higher education institutions in the country.

It has a wide range of student support services

The University of Chester, located in Chester, England, has a diverse student population of around 14,900 to 19,000 students, with a rich history dating back to 1839. The university prioritises student support and offers an extensive range of services to ensure an enjoyable and enriching experience for its students.

Wellbeing and Mental Health

The University of Chester recognises the importance of student wellbeing and mental health. They provide support services, including counselling and guidance, to promote the overall wellbeing of their students. The university advises students to register with local healthcare providers to ensure easy access to healthcare services during their time at the university.

Cost of Living Support

Understanding the financial challenges that students may face, the university offers cost-of-living support. They are committed to making higher education accessible and provide assistance to help students manage their finances effectively.

Student Advice Centre

Chester Students' Union (CSU) plays a vital role in student support. The CSU Student Advice Centre offers free, impartial, and confidential advice to students on a wide range of issues. This service provides guidance and support to students navigating various aspects of university life.

Disability and Inclusion

The University of Chester is dedicated to creating an inclusive environment for all. They provide support services for students with disabilities, ensuring equal access to education and opportunities. The university has been recognised for its commitment to student support, being shortlisted in the 2024 Whatuni Student Choice Awards.

Student Services and Policies

The university offers a range of student services and policies to support students throughout their time at the university. This includes information for parents and carers, as well as procedures for professional suitability, student complaints, and discipline. The university aims to provide a supportive framework that addresses the diverse needs of its student population.

Frequently asked questions