University of Sheffield Review: A Comprehensive Guide
The University of Sheffield is a well-ranked, research-focused university in the north of England. As a member of the Russell Group, it offers strong academic credentials across a wide range of subjects, especially engineering, architecture, and social sciences. In this review, we’ll cover the key things you need to know, from teaching and campus life to cost, career prospects, and whether it’s a good fit for you.
University of Sheffield Summary
- City: Sheffield
-
Graduate Employment Rate：
92% within 15 months of graduation.
Table of Contents
Overview of the University of Sheffield
The University of Sheffield was founded in 1905 and has grown into one of the UK’s top public universities. It’s based in Sheffield, a city in South Yorkshire known for its green spaces, low cost of living, and friendly atmosphere. The main campus is located close to the city centre, with most buildings within walking distance of each other.
The university is part of the Russell Group, which means it focuses heavily on research. It ranks consistently well in UK league tables, especially in subjects like engineering, architecture, journalism, and politics. Sheffield is also known for its partnerships with industry, including major employers like Boeing, Rolls-Royce, and Siemens.
Student life is active and inclusive, with over 350 clubs and societies. The Students’ Union has won several national awards and plays a big role in social life and student support. With around 30,000 students, Sheffield also has a strong reputation for student satisfaction and support services.
University of Sheffield Rankings 2026
Global Rankings
- 98th in the world and 12th in the UK – Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2025
- 92nd in the world – QS World University Rankings 2026
- 27th in the world and 10th in the UK – QS Sustainability Rankings 2025
- 58th in the world for progress on the UN Sustainable Development Goals – THE Impact Rankings 2024
- 5th globally for Responsible Consumption and Production (SDG 12)
UK Rankings
- 10th in the UK and top in northern England – Daily Mail University Guide 2025
- 14th in the UK – The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025
- 16th in the UK – Complete University Guide 2026
- Top 10 in the UK in 12 subject areas – The Guardian University Guide 2025
Student Experience
- University of the Year, Best Students’ Union, and Best for Student Life – Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2024
- #1 Students’ Union in the UK – multiple years running (Whatuni, StudentCrowd, NSS)
- Top in the Russell Group for student support and experience – Daily Mail University Guide 2025
Research Excellence
- 92% of research rated world-leading or internationally excellent – REF 2021
- Strong links with global industry, including Boeing, Rolls-Royce, and Siemens
University of Sheffield Courses and Programmes
Engineering at the University of Sheffield is one of its standout strengths. Consistently ranked in the UK top five for Civil, Mechanical, Aerospace and Materials Engineering, it offers students a high-quality academic experience backed by strong subject performance in national league tables. The university combines theory with practice through world-class facilities like The Diamond (a £81 million building featuring 19 labs, flight simulators and the student-run iForge makerspace).
Students also learn in the historic Mappin Building and gain hands-on industry experience at the Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC), which partners with companies like Rolls-Royce and Boeing. In research, the university stands out too. Over 90% of its engineering research is rated world-leading or internationally excellent (REF 2021). On top of this, students take part in real-world design projects, placement programmes, and award-winning robotics and engineering teams, creating a learning environment that’s both practical and career-focused.
Economics at the University of Sheffield is highly regarded both in the UK and internationally. It ranks among the top 12.5% of economics departments worldwide (IDEAS/RePEc), and was rated number one in the Russell Group for student satisfaction in the National Student Survey 2021. The department is based at 9 Mappin Street, a modern teaching space refurbished in 2014, which offers students access to secure data labs, dedicated study areas, and tailored facilities for research. Academic staff specialise in areas such as behavioural economics, macroeconomics, and environmental economics, and regularly publish in top journals. In addition, students benefit from active research seminars and strong support for independent study.
Architecture at the University of Sheffield is one of the top-ranked programmes in the UK. It is currently ranked 1st in the Complete University Guide 2025 and 2nd in the Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025. The course is taught in the Arts Tower, a Grade II listed building that offers large open-plan studios, model-making workshops, digital fabrication labs and access to industry-standard BIM and CAD software. The programme is accredited by both ARB and RIBA, which gives students exemption from RIBA Part 1. It combines strong academic teaching with hands-on design work and a focus on social and environmental responsibility. The school is also known for research in areas like sustainable architecture, urban design and spatial justice, supported by regular lectures and an active alumni network.
University of Sheffield Entry Deadline
| Date | What Happens |
| 13 May 2025 | Applications open. Students can start filling in their UCAS forms. |
| 2 Sep 2025 | Students can start submitting completed applications to UCAS. |
| 15 Oct 2025 (6pm) | Deadline for Oxford, Cambridge, and most medicine, dentistry, vet courses. |
| 14 Jan 2026 (6pm) | Main deadline for most undergraduate courses. |
| 26 Feb 2026 | UCAS Extra opens. Students with no offers can apply for more courses. |
| 30 Jun 2026 (6pm) | Last date to apply before Clearing. After this, applications go to Clearing. |
| 5 Jul 2026 | Clearing opens. Students can view and apply to available places. |
| 24 Sep 2026 | Final deadline to apply for 2026 entry. |
| 19 Oct 2026 | Last date to add a Clearing choice. |
University of Sheffield Entry Requirements
| Level | Academic | English | Pathway Option |
|---|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate | A Levels or equivalent; subject prereqs; GCSE English (and maths for some) | IELTS 6.0 (min 5.5 each) | International Foundation Year |
| Postgraduate Taught | UK 2:1 (some 2:2); relevant subject for some | IELTS 6.5 (min 6.0 each) | Pre‑Masters |
| Postgraduate Research | Bachelor’s + Master’s (or equivalent) | Varies; check departmental page | N/A – direct research route |
University of Sheffield Fees
Fees vary by course, here are some of the 2025/2026 fees:
BSc (Hons) Economics
UK
International
BSc (Hons) Computer Science
UK
International
University of Sheffield Facilities
| Facility | Details |
|---|---|
| The Diamond | £81 million engineering building with 19 labs, 9 lecture theatres, and 1,000+ study spaces. |
| Information Commons (IC) | 24/7 library and IT centre with 1,300 study spaces, 500 PCs, café, and showers. |
| Advanced Research Labs | Includes electron microscopes, climate-controlled plant labs, and X-ray/surface analysis. |
| Kroto Innovation Centre | Home to tech start-ups and clean-tech research, including Siemens Wind Power. |
| Goodwin Sports Centre | Gym, squash courts, sports halls, and multiple astroturf pitches. Renovated in 2023. |
| Arts Tower & Library | Grade II* listed building with rare collections, archives, and reading rooms. |
| Octagon Centre | Large event space for conferences, performances, and university events. |
| Students’ Union | Voted #1 in the UK. Offers shops, bars, food, support services, and 350+ student societies. |
| Creative Spaces | Studios, darkrooms, rehearsal rooms, and performance spaces across campus. |
| Campus Access | All key buildings within walking distance. Accessible and well-connected layout. |
University of Sheffield Notable Alumni
1. Sir Harold Kroto
Nobel Prize winner in Chemistry (1996) for the discovery of fullerenes. Graduated with a BSc in Chemistry.
2. Helen Sharman
First British astronaut and first woman to visit the Mir space station. Studied Chemistry at Sheffield.
3. Eddie Izzard
Comedian, actor, and political activist. Studied Accountancy and Financial Management.
4. Dame Jessica Ennis-Hill
Olympic gold medallist in heptathlon (London 2012). Studied Psychology at Sheffield.
5. David Blunkett
Former UK Home Secretary. Blind since birth, he earned a degree in Political Theory and Institutions at Sheffield.
6. Lee Child (James Grant)
Best-selling author of the Jack Reacher series. Studied Law at Sheffield.
7. Amy Johnson (honorary alumna)
Famous aviator and first woman to fly solo from London to Australia. Though not a graduate, the university has honoured her legacy.
8. Dan Walker
TV presenter and journalist, known for BBC Sport and Channel 5 News. Studied Journalism at Sheffield.
9. Dame Hilary Mantel
Double Booker Prize-winning author of Wolf Hall and Bring Up the Bodies. Studied Law briefly at Sheffield.
10. Sir Patrick Vallance
Former UK Government Chief Scientific Adviser. Completed part of his early academic training in Sheffield.
Experience the City of Sheffield as a Student
Sheffield is known for being one of the most student-friendly cities in the UK. It’s affordable, safe, and easy to get around. Also, most university buildings, accommodation, and amenities within walking distance.
The city offers a good mix of green space and urban life. With over 250 parks, Sheffield is one of the greenest cities in Europe. The Peak District National Park is just 20 minutes away by bus. In case you were wondering, it is ideal for weekend walks and outdoor activities.
The city centre has everything students need: supermarkets, cafes, bars, restaurants, independent shops, and cultural venues like the Crucible Theatre and Millennium Gallery. There’s also a strong music and nightlife scene, with live gigs, club nights, and student events happening year-round.
In addition, public transport is reliable and affordable, with discounts for students. Most students walk or use buses and trams. Cycling is also popular, with dedicated bike lanes around the campus and city.
How much does it cost to live in Sheffield for Students
| Category | Estimated Monthly Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Rent | £400 – £600 | Depends on location and type (university halls, private flat, shared house) |
| Utilities & Internet | £40 – £80 | Often included in rent for halls; not always for private accommodation |
| Groceries | £100 – £160 | Supermarkets like Aldi, Lidl, and Tesco help keep costs low |
| Transport | £0 – £50 | Most students walk; bus/tram passes available (e.g. Stagecoach student pass) |
| Phone | £10 – £20 | Basic SIM-only deals are widely available |
| Social/Leisure | £80 – £150 | Meals out, bars, clubs, gym, cinema, etc. |
| Study Materials | £20 – £50 | Books, printing, stationery |
| Miscellaneous | £30 – £60 | Toiletries, clothes, personal expenses |
Total Estimated Monthly Budget: £680 – £1,170
Opportunities in Sheffield for International Students
1. Part-Time Work
International students on a student visa can usually work up to 20 hours per week during term time.
- On-campus jobs include roles in the library, cafés, and student services.
- Off-campus options include retail, hospitality, and tutoring.
- The university’s Student Jobshop helps students find vacancies suited to their visa rules.
2. Internships and Work Placements
Many courses at Sheffield offer optional or integrated work placements.
- Examples: engineering, business, media, and biosciences.
- Sheffield’s Careers Service offers help with CVs, applications, and finding placements.
- Major employers in the city include Rolls-Royce, Boeing, HSBC, and the NHS.
3. Volunteering
The university supports students who want to get involved in community projects.
- Sheffield Volunteering offers flexible roles with local charities, schools, and events.
- Great for building your CV and gaining UK work experience.
4. Graduate Immigration Route (Post-Study Work Visa)
After graduation, international students can stay in the UK for 2 years (3 for PhD grads) to work or look for work.
- This applies automatically if you hold a valid student visa and complete your degree.
- Many Sheffield graduates secure graduate roles or start their own businesses during this period.
5. Career Support and Networking
- The Careers Service runs employer events, job fairs, and 1-to-1 career advice.
- Sheffield has strong links with local businesses and global employers.
- International students can also access Global Opportunities support for advice on working in the UK or abroad.
6. Entrepreneurial Support
- Students with business ideas can get support through the Startup Sheffield programme.
- This includes mentoring, pitching opportunities, and access to funding or workspace.
University of Sheffield Contact Information
- Official website: https://www.sheffield.ac.uk
- Address: Western Bank, Sheffield S10 2TN
- General information for international students: +44 114 222 2000
