The University, established in 1904, is one of the largest higher education institutions in the UK. We are renowned globally for the quality of our teaching and research. The strength of our academic expertise combined with the breadth of disciplines we cover, provides a wealth of opportunities and has real impact on the world in cultural, economic and societal ways. The University strives to achieve academic excellence within an ethical framework informed by our values of integrity, equality and inclusion, community and professionalism.
Our values of professionalism, inclusiveness, integrity, community and academic excellence are at the heart of everything we do. We understand that what we do can have an impact on the wider community, which is why we take our social, economic and environmental responsibilities seriously. We strive to ensure that everyone within the University is treated fairly, with dignity and respect; that the opportunities we provide are open to all; and that the University provides a safe, supportive and welcoming environment.
As an international research-led University, Leeds strives to go beyond our legal duties to create a positive environment for our diverse community of staff and students. The University works hard to promote gender equality and support the career development of talented women working in the traditionally male-dominated fields of science, engineering and technology. The University renewed its Athena SWAN Bronze award in October 2016. Leeds is committed to recruiting the brightest and best students regardless of background and our Reach for Excellence and Access to Leeds (A2L) programmes are key parts of our Access Agreement and Education Engagement Strategy. We have also developed an access strategy to recognise the needs of potential mature students.
Our single-site campus, one of the largest in the UK, is just a short walk from the centre of Leeds. Everything is in one place and it's really easy to get around. The University is a creative community with a rich cultural life, offering many opportunities for you to get involved or immerse yourself in the arts.
University of Leeds Library is one of the best-resourced academic libraries in the UK. Widely recognised as one of the world's great research libraries, the Library provides over 4 million printed books, more than 500,000 eBooks and access to 41,000 electronic journals and hundreds of online databases. Alongside traditional library services, we offer self-service facilities, state-of-the-art group study areas, an in-house binding service and Wi-Fi throughout. Our £24 million Alan Gilbert Learning Commons provides a stimulating 24/7 environment for study, combining inspiring decor with flexible spaces and the latest in learning technology. Across campus several specialist libraries offer subject-specific and tailored services. The John Rylands Library, a magnificent neo-Gothic building housing one of the world's finest collections of rare books and manuscripts, offers a vast array of resources that are available for you to use. It is also a thriving visitor attraction, with exhibitions and events taking place throughout the year.