The University of Westminster is a renowned public university located in the vibrant city of London, United Kingdom. Established in 1838 as the Royal Polytechnic Institution, it proudly holds the distinction of being the first polytechnic to open its doors in London. The Polytechnic was granted a Royal charter in August 1839, marking a significant milestone in its history. Over the years, it has evolved and transformed into the University of Westminster, solidifying its reputation as a respected institution.
University of Westminster’s main campus is located in the heart of London, with additional campuses in other vibrant areas of the city. Additionally, it manages the Westminster International University in Tashkent, located in Uzbekistan. The university is structured into three colleges and 12 schools, encompassing approximately 65 departments and centres. Notable entities within the university include the Communication and Media Research Institute (CAMRI) and the Centre for the Study of Democracy. Additionally, there are institutions such as the Policy Studies Institute, Business School, and Law School. The institution’s annual income for 2021–22 amounted to £240.9 million, with £4.25 million coming from research grants and contracts. Meanwhile, the institution’s expenditure reached £223.7 million. The university is affiliated with prestigious organisations such as the Association of Commonwealth Universities, the Association of MBAs, EFMD, EQUIS, and the European University Association.
University of Westminster’s impressive list of alumni spans across various fields, showcasing a diverse range of accomplished individuals. From Nobel laureates in Medicine to inventors, heads of state to Olympians, and BAFTA- and Oscar-winning filmmakers to Grammy Award-winning musicians, the university has nurtured talent across the board. Its alumni also include renowned journalists and poets, further highlighting the institution’s impact on society.
University of Westminster provides a wide range of educational opportunities, including Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral degrees, as well as certificates and diplomas at both undergraduate and postgraduate level. Over two thirds of Westminster’s programmes have received recognition from professional bodies such as BCS, BPS, CIOB, CABE, ICE, RICS, HPC, and more. This recognition reflects the high standards and relevance to the professions.
University of Westminster boasts a wide array of research centres that are renowned for their excellence. In fact, it was recognised as the sixth best institution in the UK and 40th globally for Media and Communications according to the prestigious QS World University Rankings 2018. The university achieved an impressive 15th ranking for Art and Design in the UK, along with a commendable 18th ranking for Architecture in the UK. Westminster University has been ranked 151-200 in the world by The Times Higher Education Young University Rankings 2019. This prestigious list recognises the top universities under 50 years old, showcasing Westminster’s excellence in education.
The university has achieved remarkable recognition and acclaim for their work, securing top positions in Communications, Cultural and Media Studies research, as well as Art and Design research. Additionally, the university has demonstrated impressive performance in Architecture and the Built Environment, and Geography and Environmental studies. Westminster’s research in 20 subject areas received high praise in the 2008 Research Assessment Exercise, with nearly 80% of it being recognised as internationally excellent. In 2013, Westminster achieved an impressive joint second ranking in the UK, as recognised by the Architects’ Journal in their esteemed “AJ Top 100” special issue.