The University of York opened in 1963 with just 230 students. In less than 50 years, it has become one of the world's leading universities with nearly 16,000 students.

York is one of the top universities in the UK for teaching and research - and is first in the UK and seventh in the world in the Times Higher Education world rankings of universities less than 50 years old. In 2012, York became a member of the influential Russell Group of leading UK universities.

The University is located in Heslington, which is within walking distance of York city centre. The campus, which has benefitted from a £750 million investment programme in recent years, is home to the University's eight colleges, most of its departments and a £10 million Sport Village with a competition standard pool. The University also has several departments located in the city centre at the historic King's Manor.

Former students of the University include the former Director-General of the BBC Greg Dyke, author Jung Chang and comedian Harry Enfield. Greg Dyke is also the University's fifth Chancellor.

In 2013, York celebrated its 50th anniversary.