About UCL

Welcome to About UCL, our short guide to the university.  UCL is a modern, outward-looking institution, committed to engaging with the major issues of our times. One of the world's leading multidisciplinary universities, UCL today is a true academic powerhouse.

UCL was ranked fourth in the world in this year's Times Higher Education-QS rankings. No fewer than 21 Nobel prizewinners have come from the UCL community.

We have a global reach and global vision. Some 34% of UCL students come from outside the UK, attracted from nearly 140 countries around the globe. Our research, too, reaches the farthest corners of the globe; from the conservation of antiquities in Iraq to the transformation of engineering research in Kazakhstan.

Much of the energy of UCL life comes from our students, who are clever, curious about the world and passionate about making a difference.  Student life here is challenging.  We provide the opportunity and leadership in teaching and research, entrepreneurship, volunteering and overseas study.  We admit only excellent students - from all backgrounds - and we work with them to develop and excel.

UCL was founded in 1826 as a radically different university, opening up English higher education for the first time to people of all beliefs and social backgrounds.  That radical tradition remains alive today.  Our research strategy commits us to addressing UCL's 'Grand Challenges', by working together right across the university in order to tackle the problems that face us today - in global health, sustainable cities, intercultural understanding, and human wellbeing.  We believe in undertaking fundamental research and in applying it.

History of UCL

UCL has a rich history spanning 180 years. Read about UCL's origins and key figures in its past more...

UCL Today

An overview of UCL today, its current priorities and its aspirations for the future more...

UCL President & Provost and Officers

Who's who more...

Contact Details

Key addresses, email addresses and telephone numbers more...

Fellows and Honorary Fellows

Listings of Fellows and Honorary Fellows of UCL

Maps and Locations

Links to maps, plus Public Transport information on getting to UCL more...

Facts and Figures

Interesting facts about UCL, including student numbers, research statistics, etc more...