University of Westminster

University of Westminster started out 180 years ago as the first polytechnic in London and one of the first in the UK, established to educate the working people of London. Today we continue to build on this reputation, helping students from a variety of backgrounds to realise their full potential.

The University of Westminster, originally founded as the Royal Polytechnic Institution in 1837 by William Mountford Nurse, opened its doors at 309 Regent Street in London on 6 August 1838. Its mission was to provide affordable practical knowledge in various fields of science and technology, such as manufacturing, mining, and rural economy. Sir George Cayley, often referred to as the father of aeronautical engineering, served as the first chairman, and the institution received a Royal Charter in 1839. The Polytechnic became a hub for scientific demonstrations, including early photography exhibitions and public rides in a diving bell, which were particularly popular with royal figures like Prince Albert.

In the mid-19th century, the Polytechnic saw significant expansion under the leadership of John Henry Pepper, who introduced evening lectures in engineering and applied science for working Londoners. This period marked the development of the institution's reputation for practical education in science and technology. Pepper also oversaw the introduction of optical shows in a specially designed theatre, where his famous "Pepper's Ghost" effect was first demonstrated, cementing the Polytechnic's place in the history of entertainment technology.

However, by the late 19th century, the Polytechnic's financial struggles led to its closure in 1881. Christian philanthropist Quintin Hogg acquired the lease for the building and reopened the institution as the Polytechnic Young Men's Christian Institute in 1882. Under Hogg's leadership, the Polytechnic expanded its educational offerings to include more academic disciplines, such as science, engineering, and the arts, and attracted large numbers of students from across London. The Polytechnic became a key player in London's growing technical education movement.

In 1896, the Polytechnic gained international recognition when it hosted the first paid screening of a moving film in the UK, courtesy of the Lumière brothers. This event marked the beginning of British cinema, further solidifying the Polytechnic’s legacy in both educational and cultural innovation. Throughout the early 20th century, the institution continued to expand, with major building projects, including the construction of the Polytechnic Extension building for women’s education, and the rebuilding of the Regent Street campus to accommodate the growing number of students.

Following World War II, the institution's curriculum broadened to meet the increasing demand for higher education. In 1960, the London County Council planned a major expansion, leading to the creation of the Polytechnic of Central London (PCL) in 1970. This new phase brought together a number of colleges, including the Holborn College of Law, Languages, and Commerce, and marked the beginning of PCL's role in offering accredited degree courses, including in engineering, architecture, and media studies.

In 1992, the institution transitioned from a polytechnic to a full-fledged university under the name University of Westminster, following the Further and Higher Education Act. This change granted the university the power to award its own degrees, marking a new era in its development. The university’s international presence grew, with the establishment of Westminster International University in Tashkent in 2002, and it received multiple Queen's Awards for Enterprise in the early 2000s for its contributions to global education.

Today, the University of Westminster has four main campuses in central London, offering a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses across various fields. The university is known for its commitment to providing high-quality education and promoting research and innovation. With a focus on global outreach and inclusivity, it continues to prepare students for successful careers in a rapidly evolving world, offering specialized centres for the study of democracy, modern culture, and international media.

The University of Westminster in London offers diverse undergraduate and postgraduate courses for the academic year 2025–26, catering to academic interests and professional aspirations. With campuses situated across central London—including Regent Street, Cavendish, Marylebone, and Harrow—the university provides students with access to state-of-the-art facilities.

For the 2025–26 academic year, the University of Westminster offers undergraduate programs across disciplines. These include degrees in Accounting and Finance, Architecture, Biomedical Sciences, Business and Management, Computer Science, Criminology, Law, Media and Communication, Psychology, and more. Many programs offer flexible study options such as sandwich years (including industrial placements), foundation years, and opportunities for studying abroad, allowing students to tailor their education to their career goals and interests. 
 

The university emphasizes practical learning, integrating industry-standard workshops, labs, and studios into its curriculum. Students benefit from mentoring schemes, work placements, and industry workshops, which equip them with the skills and experience necessary to excel in their chosen fields.
 

At the postgraduate level, the University of Westminster offers a wide range of master's programs designed to provide advanced knowledge and skills in various fields. These include programs in Accounting and Finance, Architecture, Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Film and Television, International Relations, Law, and more. Some programs are delivered in partnership with industry leaders, such as the Business of Film MA, offered in collaboration with the British Film Institute and Regent Street Cinema, which prepares students for the challenges of the film industry through creative problem-solving and business acumen. 
 

Postgraduate courses at Westminster are designed to be practical and career-focused, delivered by expert educators and industry professionals. These programs aim to equip students with the technical and transferable skills needed to progress and succeed in their careers. 
 

Prospective students can apply for undergraduate courses through the UCAS system, while postgraduate applicants can apply directly via the university's application portal. For most September-start postgraduate courses, it is recommended to apply by 1 August, and by 1 July if a student visa is required. Applicants should ensure they have all necessary documents ready, including academic transcripts, proof of English language proficiency (if applicable), and a personal statement. 
 

The University of Westminster offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses for the 2025–26 academic year, providing students with the opportunity to study in one of the world's most dynamic cities. With a focus on practical learning, industry engagement, and a diverse academic community, Westminster prepares students for successful careers in their chosen fields. For more detailed information on specific courses and application procedures, prospective students are encouraged to visit the university's official website.

The University of Westminster offers a broad range of academic programs, including Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral degrees, as well as certificates and diplomas at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. More than two-thirds of its programs are accredited by prestigious professional bodies such as the BCS, BPS, CIOB, CABE, ICE, RICS, and HPC. These recognitions underscore the university's commitment to maintaining high standards that are highly relevant to professional practices across various sectors.

In terms of rankings, Westminster has established itself as a leading institution globally. In the QS World University Rankings 2018, the university was ranked 6th in the UK and 40th globally for Media and Communications, showcasing its strength in these fields. It also ranked 15th for Art and Design and 18th for Architecture within the UK. Furthermore, the Times Higher Education Young University Rankings 2019 placed Westminster between 151-200 in the global ranking, highlighting its competitive standing among universities under 50 years old.

The university has made significant strides in research, with many of its departments achieving world-leading and internationally excellent status. Notably, Westminster was ranked second in the UK for Communications, Cultural, and Media Studies research and sixth for Art and Design research. The institution also performed well in Architecture, Built Environment, Geography, and Environmental studies. In the 2008 Research Assessment Exercise, almost 80% of Westminster’s research across 20 subject areas was deemed to be of international quality, further solidifying its reputation for academic excellence. In 2013, Westminster was also ranked joint second in the UK by the Architects’ Journal in their "AJ Top 100" special issue.

The University of Westminster in London has demonstrated a strong commitment to enhancing graduate employability, as evidenced by its recent performance in the Graduate Outcomes Survey. The university has consistently outperformed the sector average in graduate employment rates. For instance, in the 2020/21 academic year, the gap between Westminster's employment rate and the sector benchmark increased to 4.6 percentage points, highlighting its effective strategies in supporting students towards successful employment outcomes. 

Westminster's Careers and Employability Service plays a pivotal role in this success by offering a range of tools and dedicated support to help students develop their personal and professional skills. Initiatives such as career education programs, employer partnerships, and networking opportunities are designed to prepare students for the evolving graduate job market. 
University of Westminster

Moreover, the university acknowledges the need to address disparities in employment outcomes among different demographic groups. Analysis indicates that Black and Asian graduates, as well as female leavers, experience higher unemployment rates and are more likely to be employed in non-graduate roles. To mitigate these gaps, Westminster is implementing targeted support and initiatives aimed at enhancing employability for these groups, ensuring equitable opportunities for all graduates. 

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