University of Reading stands as a prestigious research-intensive institution with over 150 years of educational heritage, having received its Royal Charter in 1926 to become the only new university established in the United Kingdom between the two world wars. Today, the university serves over 25,000 students from more than 160 countries across multiple campuses, maintaining its position among the top 30 universities in the UK and consistently ranking within the global top 200 institutions for academic excellence, research quality, and graduate employment outcomes. The university's strategic location in the Thames Valley economic hub provides exceptional opportunities for student career development and industry collaboration.
Academic excellence spans four main areas including sciences, humanities, social sciences, and business, with over 200 undergraduate programs and extensive postgraduate offerings that incorporate cutting-edge research into teaching delivery. The university's modular course structure enables students to specialize in areas of particular interest while developing core subject knowledge and transferable skills valued by employers. All undergraduate programs offer placement opportunities, either mandatory or optional, while study abroad options and language learning programs broaden students' horizons and enhance their global competitiveness in increasingly international career markets.
Research leadership positions the university at the forefront of global challenges, with 98% of research submitted to the Research Excellence Framework 2021 rated as internationally excellent or world-leading. Particular research strengths include climate science, where Professor Ed Hawkins created the globally recognized Climate Stripes visualization, agricultural and food sciences, business and management, and meteorology where the university consistently ranks among the world's top institutions. Research collaborations with governments, international agencies, businesses, and charities address critical global issues including climate change, food security, sustainable development, and social justice.
Campus facilities center on the award-winning Whiteknights campus, a 320-acre parkland setting that has received 14 consecutive Green Flag awards recognizing it as one of Britain's finest green spaces. The campus combines historic architecture with state-of-the-art facilities including modern laboratories, lecture theaters, libraries, sports facilities, and student accommodation. The London Road campus houses the Institute of Education, a major provider of teacher training, while the Greenlands campus on the Thames provides the base for Henley Business School's executive education and MBA programs. International campuses in Malaysia and partnerships worldwide extend the university's global reach and cultural diversity.
Student support services encompass comprehensive academic guidance, career development, mental health and wellbeing support, disability services, and international student assistance designed to ensure every student can achieve their potential. The award-winning Careers Team provides placement support, employer connections, and career guidance that contributes to 92% of graduates being in employment or further study within 15 months of graduation. Academic support includes language learning, study skills development, and research training, while personal support services address health, financial, and social needs that might impact academic success.
Environmental leadership reflects the university's ambition to become the greenest university in the UK, with 100% renewable electricity, fossil fuel divestment policies, and comprehensive sustainability initiatives embedded across all operations. Climate science expertise informs both research and practical sustainability measures, while the campus serves as a living laboratory for environmental innovation and testing. Student environmental groups, sustainability education programs, and green transport initiatives demonstrate the university's commitment to environmental responsibility and climate action leadership.
Industry connections flourish through the university's strategic location within the Thames Valley, home to major international corporations including Microsoft, Oracle, Procter & Gamble, and numerous financial services companies. The Thames Valley Science Park, associated with the university, provides innovation space for research commercialization and startup development. Henley Business School's triple accreditation and corporate partnerships provide extensive networking opportunities, while placement programs across all disciplines connect students directly with potential employers and career opportunities.
International partnerships span multiple continents, with collaborative programs, student exchanges, research partnerships, and overseas campuses that create a truly global educational experience. The University of Reading Malaysia provides UK degree programs in Southeast Asia, while partnerships with institutions worldwide enable student mobility and international research collaboration. These international connections prepare graduates for global careers while bringing diverse perspectives and cultural understanding to the Reading campus community.
Student life encompasses 150+ clubs and societies, extensive sports facilities, cultural events, and social opportunities that create a vibrant campus community. The Students' Union provides representation, support services, entertainment venues, and leadership development opportunities, while the campus location offers easy access to Reading's cultural attractions, shopping, and nightlife. Regular international food markets, farmers' markets, and cultural celebrations reflect the diverse student community while supporting local suppliers and sustainable practices.
Graduate outcomes demonstrate the university's success in preparing students for career advancement, with alumni holding leadership positions across business, government, academia, and non-profit sectors worldwide. Graduate starting salaries consistently exceed national averages, while career progression data shows strong long-term employment outcomes and professional advancement. Alumni networks provide ongoing support for career development, mentoring opportunities, and professional connections that benefit current students and recent graduates throughout their careers.
Admissions processes welcome applications from diverse educational backgrounds, with contextual admissions policies ensuring talented students from all backgrounds can access university education. Foundation programs, international pathway courses, and English language support provide preparation for students who need additional academic or language development. Scholarship programs, bursaries, and financial support help ensure that financial circumstances do not prevent talented students from accessing high-quality university education and achieving their academic potential.
Contact and information services include comprehensive online resources, admissions support, campus tours, open days, and extensive information for prospective students, current students, staff, and the wider community. Digital platforms provide access to course information, application systems, student portals, and research databases, while physical locations offer face-to-face support when needed. Regular communication through multiple channels keeps all stakeholders informed about university developments, opportunities, and achievements while maintaining strong connections with local and global communities.
