The University of Liverpool, located in the vibrant coastal city of Liverpool in northwest England, is a world-leading public research university and a founding member of the prestigious Russell Group. Established in 1881 as University College Liverpool, it gained its Royal Charter as an independent university in 1903. The university is renowned for its commitment to academic excellence and innovation, tackling global challenges and making a positive impact on society. Students benefit from state-of-the-art facilities, a multicultural campus environment, and strong industry connections, which provide a solid foundation for their future careers.
The University of Liverpool has a strong research profile, with 91% of its research being recognized as world-leading or internationally excellent in the latest Research Excellence Framework (REF 2021). Furthermore, the university was awarded a Gold rating in the 2023 Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF), demonstrating its commitment to high-quality teaching and an outstanding student experience.
Quick Facts
Quick Facts


Key Faculties
Popular Subjects and Ranking
| Subject | Ranking* |
|---|---|
| Accounting and Finance | 10 |
| Animal Science | 4 |
| Architecture | 7 |
| Business, Management & Marketing | 14 |
| Chemistry | 8 |
| Dentistry | 9 |
| Economics | 11 |
| Pharmacology & Pharmacy | 10 |
| Physiotherapy | 6 |
| Radiography | 5 |
| Materials Technology | 6 |
| Music | 6 |
| Physics & Astronomy | 6 |
| Town & Country Planning and Landscape Design | 7 |
Fun Facts
A history of “firsts”
Liverpool holds the distinction of being the first UK university to establish departments and offer degrees in marine biology, civic design (planning), architecture, and biochemistry, showcasing its history of pioneering new fields of study.
Medical Research Excellence
The university’s medical school is among the largest in the UK and a leader in research on cancer, cardiovascular disease, and other critical areas. For example, university research teams have achieved significant progress in developing new cancer therapies and enhancing the quality of life for individuals with heart conditions.
Leadership in Tropical Medicine
Established in 1898, the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM) is one of the oldest and most prestigious institutions of its kind worldwide, making significant contributions to combatting malaria, dengue fever, and other tropical diseases.
Radiography Research
The MSc Radiography program at the University of Liverpool emphasizes research methodology, with students conducting research projects related to clinical practice. For example, a 2021 study explored the influence of social media on career choices among radiography students, shedding light on how clinical and university experiences shape students’ professional paths.
Physiotherapy Research Funding
The physiotherapy team at the University of Liverpool received £112,000 in funding from the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy to investigate the effects of transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) on individuals with myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS). This research utilizes advanced metabolic equipment and aims to improve treatment approaches for ME/CFS patients.
Notable Alumni
British physicist who was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1917 for his work on the X-ray spectroscopy and the fundamental properties of X-rays.
Indian-American biochemist who shared the 1968 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for his research on the interpretation of the genetic code and its function in protein synthesis.
Polish-British physicist who received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1995 for his efforts towards nuclear disarmament.
American biologist who, as part of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), shared the 2007 Nobel Peace Prize with former US Vice President Al Gore for their work on climate change awareness.
British astrophysicist who served as Project Scientist for the European Space Agency’s Rosetta mission, which successfully landed a probe on a comet. He received his PhD in astrophysics from the University of Liverpool.
University Pathway Programmes

















