Keele University

Welcome to Keele University, where we pride ourselves on being different. Established 75 years ago to address the needs of a changing society, economy, and world, our founding principles are more relevant today than ever. Our campus university, home to over 12,500 students, is set within 600 acres of beautiful Staffordshire countryside, yet is conveniently located just an hour from Manchester and Birmingham. Keele offers a large campus with a small, cosmopolitan community, providing ample space for both contemplation and activity.

Keele University was conceived from a visionary idea, aiming to create a different kind of institution. Founded in 1949 by Lord Lindsay, the former Vice-Chancellor of Oxford University, during a period of post-World War II recovery, Keele’s mission was to produce graduates with not only technical and specialist knowledge but also a deep understanding of the social and political contexts driving societal needs. Seventy-five years later, this original ethos continues to drive Keele’s mission, with our global network of over 100,000 alumni in 120 countries making a positive impact across diverse career fields.

Our commitment to teaching excellence is evident, with Keele consistently ranked among the best for student satisfaction. In 2022, students voted Keele as “Britain’s best university” in the Student Crowd University Awards, and in 2023, we received the highest “Gold” rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework. This recognition is a testament to our high-quality curriculum, inspiring faculty, and research with global impact.

At Keele, we believe in educating the whole person. Our aim is to develop not only academic expertise but also life skills. Our interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary approach fosters a dynamic learning environment where debate and discussion extend beyond the classroom. This method encourages students to view the world from multiple perspectives, enriching their educational experience.

Our campus, one of the largest in Britain, is a stunning expanse of the Staffordshire countryside. Despite its size, all accommodation, facilities, including a medical centre and pharmacy, and teaching spaces are centrally located, ensuring everything is within walking distance. Keele has been recognized as one of the top 10 “most beautiful universities” in Britain by The Telegraph in 2012. The nearby market town of Newcastle-under-Lyme offers bars, a cinema, and a renowned theatre, while the city of Stoke-on-Trent is just a short bus ride away. For those seeking the excitement of bigger cities, Manchester and Birmingham are less than an hour away by train.

Our faculty are leaders in various fields, including climate change, sustainability, global health, and food security, conducting research that aims to create a better world. Keele provides a range of accommodation options to suit different lifestyles and budgets. With over 2,700 bedrooms on campus, students have easy access to the central campus and study areas. The campus also features sports facilities, shops, cafés, and open spaces, ensuring that all essential amenities are just a short walk away.

Choosing Keele means joining a community dedicated to your personal and academic growth. With our supportive environment and exceptional resources, you will thrive here and be well-prepared for a successful future. Come and explore Keele University, where you can be part of a community that inspires change and fosters lifelong connections.