University of Leicester is a public research university located in Leicester, England. Founded in 1921 as Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland University College, it was granted university status in 1957. The institution was established as a living memorial to those who lost their lives during the First World War, with its motto “Ut vitam habeant” meaning “So that they may have life.”
With a diverse community of more than 20,000 students from over 150 countries, the University of Leicester offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across its three main colleges: College of Life Sciences, College of Science and Engineering, and College of Social Sciences, Arts and Humanities. The university’s main campus is located close to Leicester’s city centre, providing students with easy access to cultural, historical, and social amenities.
The University of Leicester is internationally recognized for its research excellence, having made groundbreaking contributions such as the discovery of genetic fingerprinting in 1984. It has strong industry and academic partnerships, which enhance its focus on innovation, employability, and real-world application of knowledge. Significant investments have been made in recent years to develop modern facilities, including the George Davies Centre for Medical Education and the redevelopment of the Percy Gee Building, a central hub for student life.
Beyond academics, the university actively engages in community outreach, sustainability initiatives, and cultural enrichment. Its commitment to diversity, inclusion, and research-led teaching continues to strengthen its reputation both nationally and globally.
