Kingston University London

Kingston University London is a globally recognised public university with an educational heritage dating back to 1899. It offers a wide portfolio of undergraduate and postgraduate degree courses across four academic faculties: Kingston School of Art, Faculty of Business and Social Sciences, Faculty of Health, Science, Social Care and Education, and Faculty of Engineering, Computing and the Environment.

The university welcomes a diverse, dynamic community of around 21,000 students from more than 140 countries, providing a cosmopolitan experience with excellent opportunities, resources, and support services. Courses are designed in collaboration with industry partners, ensuring they remain elevant and aligned with modern workplace needs.

Students graduate fully equipped with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to succeed in competitive careers, particularly in London's expansive and well-connected job market. A degree from Kingston University is internationally respected, opening doors to professional opportunities while offering a rich student lifestyle and a vibrant social and personal experience.

Kingston University is located in south-west London, giving students easy access to the city centre with all its world-famous culture, history and entertainment. London consistently ranks in the top three student cities globally (QS Best Student Cities, 2026), and is exceptionally well-connected nationally by road and rail, and internationally through its six major airports.

Kingston University has over 120 years of educational heritage and a highly qualified, internationally experienced faculty. Tutors, mentors, and researchers provide expert guidance, forming effective working relationships with students from all backgrounds. Many faculty members are engaged in active research, giving students access to innovative insights and real-world industry knowledge.

Students at Kingston University benefit from Gold standard teaching (Teaching Excellence Framework, 2023), and courses that consistently achieve strong national rankings. In the 2025 Guardian Good University Guide, Kingston University ranked in the top 10 nationally for mental health nursing, fashion and textiles, graphic design, construction, surveying and planning and geography.

Courses often include work placements and internships, complemented by guest lectures and industry talks to inspire students and support career development. Students frequently highlight the enthusiasm and dedication of lecturers and tutors, appreciating their guidance on both academic and personal matters.

Kingston University is also renowned for the quality of its research, with 70 percent ranked as world-leading or internationally excellent in the Research Excellence Framework (2021). Research has a collaborative focus and spans a wide range of fields, giving students access to cutting-edge knowledge and opportunities to engage with practical applications in their disciplines.

The Faculty of Business and Social Sciences brings together Kingston Business School and the School of Law, Social and Behavioural Sciences. It fosters inquisitive minds and sharp critical thinking skills, preparing graduates to challenge convention, engage with real-world issues, and succeed in today's evolving professional landscape.

The Faculty of Health, Science, Social Care and Education is equipped with industry-standard facilities and cutting-edge technologies to deliver high-quality courses in life sciences, pharmacy, nursing, midwifery, social work, sport science, nutrition, education, and research. With an emphasis on hands-on experience and an interdisciplinary approach, students develop leadership, teamwork, and professional skills essential for their future careers.

The Faculty of Engineering, Computing, and the Environment combines interdisciplinary research with strong partnerships between academia and industry. Courses are delivered through the School of Engineering and the Environment and the School of Computer Science and Mathematics, giving students the technical expertise, innovation skills, and real-world experience needed to tackle global challenges.

Kingston School of Art (KSA) is comprised of three schools:

• The School of Arts is home to some of the longest-established disciplines at KSA, including architecture and fine art, film, photography and the performing arts.
• The School of Creative and Cultural Industries offers a wide range of theoretical and historical courses spanning art, design, fashion, film and other creative disciplines.
• The Design School provides rigorous programmes in design education, research and enterprise, enabling students to develop professional skills across multiple design fields.

Students across all three schools have the opportunity to showcase their work in the annual KSA Degree Show, celebrating creativity and innovation.

Kingston University accepts a wide range of international qualifications for entry to its courses. Applicants must be at least 18 years old on 1 September of their first year.

Applicants may be assessed on formal qualifications or, in some cases, on relevant professional, voluntary or personal experience. The university values diversity of background and considers each applicant's interest, ability and potential for success, looking beyond academic achievements.

Entry requirements vary by course, with some requiring a portfolio or specific subject background. Prospective students are encouraged to check course-specific details on the university's website. The admissions team provides advice and guidance throughout the year.

English language

International students for whom English is not a first language must demonstrate the required level of English language proficiency prior to starting their programme. Students are advised to check the specific requirements for their chosen course prior to application.

In general, for most courses, the English language requirements are as follows:

• Undergraduate study: overall IELTS Academic score of 6.0 with no band score lower than 5.5
• Postgraduate study (Kingston School of Art): overall IELTS Academic score of 6.5 with no band score lower than 5.5
• Postgraduate study (all other faculties): overall IELTS Academic score of 6.5 with no band score lower than 6.0
• Research degrees: variable

Kingston University is committed to supporting students with the financial security needed to complete their studies with confidence. Recognising the cost of studying in London, the university offers a range of international scholarships and bursaries to assist those in need and to reward talent and achievement.

The International Scholarship scheme is highly competitive and open to offer holders who demonstrate they will be strong ambassadors for Kingston University. In addition, a range of faculty scholarships are available for postgraduate students, alongside a loyalty award offering a 10 percent tuition fee reduction for returning Kingston University alumni who have completed an undergraduate degree.

Most awards are provided as a tuition fee discount or non-repayable grant. Full details and application guidance are available on the university website.

Kingston University enjoys an exceptionally high graduate employment rate, with 92 percent of graduates in employment or further study within 15 months of completing their course, demonstrating the effectiveness of its career-focused approach.

The university is a research-driven institution with a strong career-oriented focus. It is committed to the success of its students and leads the way in enhancing professional training and employability through initiatives such as its Future Skills Report 2025, which identifies the attributes most valued by employers and informs course design across all disciplines.

Students are supported in their career aspirations through a wide range of opportunities, including study abroad programmes, the Kingston Award for extra-curricular achievements, volunteering, and casual work through the Kingston Hub and Enterprise! Scheme. These initiatives help graduates to become highly informed, adaptable, and skilled professionals.

Kingston University's careers department runs a busy calendar of events and workshops, focusing on employability skills, interview training, CV development, and more. Guest speakers and networking opportunities connect students directly with industry professionals and the extensive global alumni network, spanning multiple employment sectors.

Teaching excellence

Kingston University is a progressive and outward-looking institution, dedicated to delivering high-quality teaching, an outstanding student experience, and strong graduate outcomes.

This commitment has been recognised with a Gold rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework (2023), placing Kingston among an elite group of 26 universities and colleges in the UK awarded Gold in all three categories. This rating reflects the excellence of academic experiences, resources, student support, engagement, and the positive outcomes achieved by graduates.

Future Skills programme

The university's Future Skills programme equips students with the nine key graduate attributes most valued by employers, including creative problem solving, digital competency, adaptability, collaboration, and resilience.

Developed in collaboration with global employers and integrated into all courses, Future Skills ensures that students are prepared to succeed in today's fast-changing workplace, addressing skill shortages and supporting future prosperity in the UK and beyond.

Sustainability and social responsibility

Kingston University is wholly committed to sustainability and social responsibility. In 2024, it was awarded the Fairtrade University and College Award in partnership with the Union of Kingston Students, becoming one of only 25 UK higher education institutions to achieve this recognition. The University was also recognised in the UK and Ireland Green Gown Awards for its ambitious net zero strategy and student engagement initiatives.

These awards celebrate student-led campaigns, sustainable procurement, and opportunities to gain transferable skills through active involvement in social and environmental projects. Many students volunteer as auditors, gaining valuable experience while supporting the University's sustainable practices.

Together, these initiatives reflect Kingston University's commitment to academic excellence, employability, global awareness, and social responsibility — ensuring students graduate with the skills, experiences, and perspectives to thrive both professionally and personally.