Kingston University

About Kingston University

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. 

University academic structure

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.

Graduate outcomes

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.

What’s new

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.