History
- Aston University received its Royal Charter from Queen Elizabeth II on 22 April 1966.
- In 1875 we started life as the School of Metallurgy, part of the Birmingham & Midland Institute.
- The Institute played a leading role in introducing scientific and technical education to people of all backgrounds in Birmingham, and set the scene for how Aston University would evolve.
Research
- Our mission is to deliver research that changes lives for the better. As a public research university, we foster collaboration between students, academics and industry leaders, bringing together people from all backgrounds and disciplines in the pursuit of knowledge, academic excellence, and a better world.
- For over 70 years, we’ve pushed boundaries at the heart of the UK’s second city. We’ve embraced diversity, led change, and championed learning.
- We empower our researchers with access to cutting-edge facilities and investment opportunities. And we aim to magnify the impact of our research beyond academia, to the benefit of all.
University Ranking
QS World University Rankings by TopUniversities
2025
423 23
2024
446 115
2023
561
QS World University Rankings is one of the top international rankings measuring the popularity and performance of universities all over the world. They measure university reputation based on the impressions of higher education experts, companies who hire graduates, and teaching quality. QS also considers the ratio of international teachers and students present at universities, as well as the times research papers were mentioned by researchers. After calculating and comparing these criteria, QS ranks the universities accordingly.
World University Rankings by Times Higher Education
2025
-
2024
401
2023
401
World University Rankings is a vital resource that provides the definitive list of the world's best universities. They look at how often they're producing new ideas, what their reputation is around the world, and how much they're contributing to science and academic fields. After calculating and comparing these criteria, THE ranks the universities accordingly.
Best Global Universities Rankings by U.S. News & World Report
2025
-
2024
659 58
2023
717
Best Global Universities Rankings by U.S. News & World Report presents all the top universities from the U.S. and 60 other countries around the world. They measure the rate of students going to their second year of studies, as well as the rate of students who graduate. It also asks university representatives on the performance of universities, and evaluates university resources, teacher salaries, graduation rates, student academic achievements and satisfaction. After calculating and comparing these criteria, U.S. News ranks the top international universities accordingly.
Student services
- Aston is a safe campus to live, work and study and we have a number of systems in place to ensure your safety, security and wellbeing are protected.
- Staying safe and reporting any incidents is the shared responsibility of our whole community and there are some simple steps you can follow to give you extra vigilance and peace of mind.
Housing services
- We provide award-winning accommodation on our small, friendly campus in partnership with Unite Students.
- All new undergraduate students who meet our criteria are guaranteed a room in Aston Student Village. If you require off-campus accommodation, this is organised through Aston Students' who will help you find recommended rental spaces across the city.
- For students looking to study off-campus, Amber Student has stepped in to offer a home away from home while providing affordable, safe, and hygienic student accommodation in Birmingham.
Library services
Aston University's library offers access to digital and print resources, with personalised support for learning and research. Learn more about how you can make the most of our facilities and services.
Campus life
- The Aston University campus is located on a green, 60-acre, self-contained site in the centre of Birmingham, within 5-10 minutes walk of the main shopping, business and entertainment areas of the city.
- You’ll find a number of facilities in this friendly space, including cafes, a supermarket, and places to meet, study and get healthy.
Sports facilities
- Welcome to Sport Aston. The go to place to get fit, stay fit and most importantly have fun working out and enjoying the range of facilities we have to offer.
- Based on the Aston University campus, The Sir Doug Ellis Woodcock Sports Centre is home to a fully functional gym, multiple studios and courts alongside Birmingham’s oldest, but most stunning operational swimming pool.
- Sport Aston also manages the Aston University Recreation Centre in Great Barr, which provides grass pitches for hire and a floodlit all weather pitch. This is set across 48 acres of greenery providing beautiful views in a relaxing environment. The centre also has functions rooms and break out areas for public hire.
Student clubs
- Joining a club or society is one of the best ways to get the most out of your time here at Aston. With over 130 student-led groups we have something for everyone. Take a look below to see what groups we have on offer! Don't see anything that interests you? Start your own here! We love hearing your ideas for new clubs and societies.
- We are part of an elite group of global business schools who hold the gold standard of 'triple-crown' accreditation from AACSB (Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business), AMBA (Association of MBAs) and EQUIS (EFMD Quality Improvement System).