University of Lancaster, UK
EducationWorld June 12 | Institution Profile UK
Routinely ranked among the best universities in the UK and the top 200 worldwide, University of Lancaster is one of six varsities in the UK which follows the collegiate system Established by royal charter in 1964, University of Lancaster (LU) has rapidly matured and is routinely ranked among the best universities in the UK and the top 200 worldwide. The 48-year-old varsity is ranked seventh among British universities in the Guardian University Guide 2012, eighth in the Times Higher Education league table 2011 and ninth in the Good University Guide 2012. Internationally, it’s ranked No. 131 in THE World University Rankings 2011 and No. 153 in QS World University Rankings 2011. Moreover a recent Research Assessment Exercise of the British government confirms that 92 percent of research conducted at LU — a member of the N8 group of research universities in the UK — is of “international quality”. Its high national and global ranking apart, a distinguishing feature of University of Lancaster, UK is that it’s one of only six universities in the UK which follows the collegiate system. Under this system, every student admitted into LU is assigned to a college (regardless of the student’s field of study) which offers academic, housing, social and recreational facilities. Currently 12,000 including 1,500 foreign students from 150 countries, are enroled in LU’s nine colleges sited on a sprawling 360-acre campus in Lancaster, north England. Its four faculties — arts and social sciences, health and medicine, management, science and technology — offer a diverse range of bachelor’s and Masters study programmes. Comments Prof. Mark E. Smith, vice chancellor: “Lancaster is one of the UK’s top universities, consistently highly ranked in the UK league tables and established as a world player in research and teaching as reflected in our rising global league tables position. The entry standard for undergraduates is now at its highest level ever, and Lancaster graduates are performing well in an increasingly competitive job market. The university places great emphasis on an excellent student experience and students work with academics who are experts in their fields. Since 2003, the university has invested over £400 million (Rs.3,400 crore) to transform the campus for students and boost research and teaching facilities. As we move towards the university’s golden anniversary in 2014, we will celebrate the inspiring work of our academic community and extend the opportunities that higher education brings to students from all backgrounds.” Lancaster. Located in north west England on the river Lune, between Manchester and the Lake District, Lancaster (pop.50,000) offers rich history, culture and scenic countryside. Once a thriving Georgian port at the centre of trade with the West Indies, Lancaster boasts numerous historical monuments and museums including the Lancaster Castle, City Museum, Judges’ Lodgings and Ashton Memorial. The Lancaster Grand Theatre and Dukes are two of the city’s most notable venues for live performances offering open-air theatre, also offered in the award-winning Williamson Park. For recreation there are commercial cinemas, nightclubs, a variety of restaurants and numerous pubs and shops in and around the city…