The University of Worcester was founded in 1946 as an Emergency Teacher Training College following the end of the Second World War, with the purpose to ‘win the peace through education’. This legacy continues to shape our values and our commitment to community and learning.  

We are committed to the fundamental British values of: 

  • Democracy 

  • The rule of law 

  • Individual liberty 

  • Mutual respect 

  • Tolerance of different faiths and beliefs 

From our earliest days, we have worked hand-in-hand with local people, businesses, and organisations to create opportunities, improve lives, and contribute to the wellbeing of our region. 

Our impact in numbers 

  • Working in partnership with more than 500 schools to educate the next generation of teachers for our children’s classrooms 

  • More than 1,000 health professionals graduating each year to work in our hospitals and community settings 

  • With more than 1,700 staff, we’re one of the County’s largest employers 

  • 97% of our students come from state schools, reflecting our strong widening participation commitment. 

 

Supporting democracy

We believe that active participation in democratic processes is a vital part of civic life. We encourage all our students to register to vote and to make their voices heard in local and national elections.  

Through initiatives such as voter registration campaigns and providing clear information about upcoming elections, we help our community engage confidently with the democratic process.  

Democracy is also embedded in how we govern ourselves. The University is overseen by a Governing Body made up of independent and staff governors, many of whom are elected to represent diverse perspectives. We actively support a vibrant Students’ Union, whose elected representatives sit on the Board of Governors, ensuring that the student voice shapes key decisions. 

Welcoming the world

Our campus is home to students from across the globe, enriching Worcester with international perspectives and cultural exchange. 

We are delighted that the University has students and staff drawn from over 75 countries. 

By fostering global citizenship, we help prepare our graduates to thrive in an interconnected world while strengthening Worcester’s reputation as an open and welcoming city. 

Learn more about studying with us as an international student 

Students as good neighbours

We encourage our students to be good neighbours, asking them to be aware of their responsibilities as members of the community, not to let themselves down and to avoid causing offence or impacting negatively on the lives of their fellow citizens. 

Many students make a significant personal contribution and commitment to the city through their volunteering work while at university and many stay in Worcester after graduation to follow their careers and make their homes here. 

If you have any concerns or need assistance, please contact our Security team, who are available to help. 

Community engagement

We are committed to being an active member of our community and work hard to ensure our impact on the local area is enriching and beneficial. We work closely with our community through forums and collaborative initiatives with the aim of maximising the benefits of the University to the local community. 

IMPACT 

Our IMPACT group, bringing together researchers, practitioners, and community partners to improve health and wellbeing through shared projects. Its work focuses on practical solutions that make a real difference in people’s lives.  

Community Forum 

The Community Forum provides an open platform for dialogue between the University and local residents, organisations, and stakeholders. It helps shape shared priorities and ensures that our activities align with community needs. 

Children’s University 

The University is the lead for Worcestershire Children’s University, inspiring young learners to explore new interests and develop skills beyond the classroom. Through accredited activities and partnerships, we help children discover the joy of lifelong learning. 

Repair Café  

The University regularly hosts the Worcester Repair Café on campus, providing a space for the community to get items repaired instead of discarding them. 

Economic growth

The University’s annual income has risen by more than four times since 2004 and is now approaching £100m, with the University’s activities generating well over a quarter of a billion pounds annually for the regional economy and supporting more than 8,000 jobs directly or indirectly in the area. 

Our graduates are among the most employable in the country, with the highest rate of sustained employment, further study or both, from any multidisciplinary university in the UK. (Longitudinal Education Outcomes (LEO) 2017 to 2025). 

We have more than 1,000 employer partnerships across the region, supporting placements to ensure our graduates are workforce ready. 

Get involved

Attend an event

From public lectures and cultural events to collaborative projects and volunteering, we open our doors to share knowledge, celebrate creativity, and work together for a stronger, healthier society. Explore our latest events

Make a difference

The University of Worcester thrives because of the strong partnerships and goodwill we share with our local community. From schools and charities to businesses and residents, your support helps us deliver education, research, and opportunities that make a real difference. Find out more about how you can support our work 

 

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