AN EDUCATOR OF CHOICE

With more than 300 postgraduate courses available, the University of Leeds offers one of the broadest ranges in the UK. Not only does this provide a wide choice for students looking to continue their studies, it opens up a wealth of exciting interdisciplinary opportunities across different areas of research.

Professor Vivien Jones, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Student Education, is a strong proponent of the benefits of a postgraduate education. “It develops students’ confidence in their own intellectual ability, as well as expertise in a chosen subject area, giving them a strong platform for career development. And a postgraduate qualification can also mean a premium in terms of future earnings.”

The university’s breadth and quality of courses makes it a top choice for those looking to work with leaders in their field. High-flying students are drawn by the focus on collaboration across disciplines, particularly in key areas of research into global problems, such as energy, climate, water management, food, cities, culture and high-value engineering. “The big issues are going to be solved increasingly through interdisciplinary discussion and collaboration,” says Professor Jones. “We’re making a strong contribution to that process.”

World-class teaching

The University of Leeds has consistently ranked highly for the quality of its teaching and research. It was a runner up for The Good University Guide’s University of the Year in 2014; it has twice been awarded the Queen’s Anniversary Prize, which recognises world-class achievement; it is placed in the top 50 in the world for subjects including English, Geography and Education by the QS World University Rankings; and its Business School is triple accredited by the most prestigious international accreditation bodies. This reputation attracts students from around the world – 46 per cent of the 8,000-strong postgraduate student body is international, with more than 140 countries represented on campus.

“One of the things we’re constantly trying to do is innovate in our postgraduate provision,” says Professor Jones. “We have partners in industry around the world and we work collaboratively to make the most of our vast knowledge and research – creating a stimulating and exciting environment in which to learn. Our students recognise that the university is able to offer unique opportunities, resources and networks.”

For instance, it has comprehensive partnerships with companies such as Arup, Opera North, Santander, Sinochem, Procter & Gamble and retailer Marks & Spencer, whose archive is held on campus. “This very special collaboration translates into internships and research in a range of areas,” says Professor Jones, “including business, sustainability, fashion and design, and food research.”

Enterprise and entrepreneurship

The university also has a strong focus on enterprise and entrepreneurship, offering mentoring support and sponsorship to those students who want to start their own business during their studies. In addition, the university is increasingly adopting a more flexible approach to shaping and timetabling its postgraduate courses, to encourage students to take up opportunities to work with industry and create valuable networks.

With such a breadth of world-class courses available, and a strong focus on collaboration and cross-disciplinary activity, the University of Leeds opens up a wealth of opportunities. In doing so, it provides postgraduate students with the ideal springboard to excel in their chosen career paths.