About the University home Governance and management Departments, offices and sections Information for visitors Contacting people Founded on principles of excellence, equality and opportunity for all, the University of York opened in 1963 with just 230 students. Academic excellence
In less than 50 years, York has become one of the top ten universities in the UK for teaching and research – and is ranked in the top 100 universities in the world. There are now over 30 academic departments and research centres and the student body has expanded to 13,000. Read more about research at York The campus
Underpinning York's excellent reputation is a friendly and welcoming campus, strengthened by our collegiate system which encourages inclusivity and a valuable sense of community. Our prime location, in a beautiful landscaped park, within easy reach of the historic city of York, has positioned the University as a world-class destination in which to work and study. Several departments are located in the city centre at the King's Manor in Grade 2 listed buildings, and since 2000 York has added 20 new buildings to its Heslington West campus. Meanwhile, sustainability is key to the University's ambitious campus expansion at Heslington East. This stunning development, which is nearing completion of phase one, will increase our capacity for student numbers, drive up research income and provide more world-class facilities for the 21st century. Former students
Former students of the University include Editor of the Sunday Times John Witherow; former Director-General of the BBC Greg Dyke; authors Jung Chang and Helen Dunmore; comedian Harry Enfield, and ten MPs. Read more information for alumni The Vice-Chancellor
The Vice-Chancellor of the University is Professor Brian Cantor. York's fifth Vice-Chancellor, he joined the University in October 2002. The Chancellor
The Chancellor of the University is Greg Dyke, former Director-General of the BBC. He is the University's fifth Chancellor and took up his position in August 2004. Read more about governance and management
