Top Universities in Sheffield: Courses, Rankings & Student Life

TL;DR: Quick Summary

• Two major universities in Sheffield: University of Sheffield (Russell Group), Sheffield Hallam University.

• Strong academic reputation: The University of Sheffield ranked in the UK Top 25 (REF 2025); Hallam excels in employability and industry links.

• Affordable student city: Sheffield cost of living is ~30% lower than London; one of the UK’s most affordable university cities.

• Excellent support and facilities: Both universities offer robust international student support, modern campuses, and active student unions.

• Easy transport & lifestyle: Compact city centre campuses with excellent public transit, green spaces (Peak District nearby), and lively student communities.

If you are a student who wishes to learn in Sheffield, you're looking at a city where education is deeply ingrained in its identity. Education sets values, and universities in Sheffield set the soul of the society. The most famous and prestigious educational institutions in the city, like the University of Sheffield and Sheffield Hallam University, contribute to the city’s learning space. They provide high-quality education and welcome a diverse student population. Besides, you’ll find a range of comfortable and affordable student accommodation in Sheffield located in proximity to these universities. This ensures that you don’t have to spend a lot of your precious time travelling to and from your university. This blog will explore the compelling reasons why Sheffield stands out as an ideal destination for students and top universities in the city. Stay tuned! 

Why Should You Choose Sheffield for Education? 

‘Genius without education is like silver in the mine.’ 

When Benjamin Franklin quoted this, it hit! The way education impacts your life, the places where you enrol for education, also influence your career trajectories. Known as the ‘Steel City’ due to its significant industrial past, Sheffield is one such modern hub for students and their bright careers, with two distinguished universities. It is a melting pot of rich history and innovation. The city ranks 64th in the QS Best Student Cities and has a welcoming environment for students with affordable student accommodation options. Now, let’s explore how universities and friendly surroundings in Sheffield contribute to the city’s success: 

• Universities in Sheffield celebrate their global perspective and encourage a vibrant student life. 
• The University of Sheffield and Sheffield Hallam University are famous for their academic excellence and diverse student life. 
• These institutions have excellent courses that equip students with knowledge and skills. Beyond that, they also offer great career opportunities. 
• Following impressive academics, the city of Sheffield is a great place to spend your student life. It has several green spaces, gardens, lively club nights, and thrilling sports events. 

Choosing Sheffield as your education partner is a great choice. It is like immersing yourself in a city that values both studies and student life. 

List of Top Universities in Sheffield

Sheffield City is an unparalleled mix of first-rate education, vibrant student life and quality living experiences. Being a crucial part of the UK’s education system, Sheffield accepts approximately 60,000 students from all over the world each year. The University of Sheffield and Sheffield Hallam University are the most prestigious and respected universities in the city. They offer top courses, an inclusive environment and better career opportunities. 

University of Sheffield

Established in: 1897

Total Students (2023/24): 30,233

Website: https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/

The University of Sheffield is a well-renowned educational institution and is one of the prestigious universities in the elite Russell Group. It attracts thousands of students from around the world and is one of the prominent research education foundations in the UK. The university was formed through the merger of institutions like Firth College, Sheffield Technical School and Sheffield Medical School. It is also one of six red-brick universities constructed in the industrial area of England.

The university has seen substantial growth over the years. It has seen an increase in enrollments, the addition of new departments, courses, and even campus expansion. The university provides courses mainly in the Faculty of Science, Engineering, Social Sciences, Arts and Humanities, and Medicine and Health. Moreover, it has nurtured and encouraged the brilliance of not one, but six Nobel Prize winners! Students graduating from the university will be known for their insight, skills and experience. Furthermore, there are comfortable student halls near Sheffield University with cosy rooms and quality facilities. 

Sheffield Hallam University 

Established in: 1843

Total International Students (2024/25): 4000

Website: https://www.shu.ac.uk/

Sheffield Hallam University is one of the largest and most diverse universities in England. Located in Sheffield, South Yorkshire in England, this institution has an excellent educational framework and committed staff. The university has an ideal location for students as it is close to Sheffield Railway Station, supermarkets, hangout spots, and student halls in Sheffield​. It is proud of its huge student community with around 32,000 students, 4200 staff and 3,30,000 alumni around the world. Given this huge student population, the city has a variety of high-quality living options tailored to this vibrant community.

Moreover, Hallam is 5th for graduate success in the UK. A maximum of students enter skilled jobs or further study, fifteen months after graduation. It has achieved 5 stars in the QS star ranking and top marks in different categories such as teaching, employability, facilities, innovation and inclusiveness. The university has various faculties, including the Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities (SSH), Health and Wellbeing (HWB), Science, Technology and Arts (STA), and Sheffield Business School (SBS). Additionally, its research and innovations work across world-class facilities and highlight real-world impact. It celebrated its first partnership with La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia, accessing international learning experiences.

Student Life in Sheffield

A big city like Sheffield may intimidate an outsider because of its fast-paced environment and distinct lifestyle. Especially, a student staying away from home can experience difficulty in adjusting to this new life. However, Sheffield stands different with a welcoming, vibrant and safe life. It is a friendly and affordable student city with prestigious universities like the University of Sheffield and Sheffield Hallam University.

The city sees students as residents and offers a wide range of student halls near these educational institutions. Truro, Central Quay and Rockingham House are some of the best places to stay in Sheffield​ , offering top student accommodation options. You can visit Best Student Halls for affordable housing and in-depth information about student properties in Sheffield. These housing options ensure you have an enjoyable experience with state-of-the-art facilities and dedicated onsite management.

Sheffield is a multicultural and friendly city that welcomes millions of visitors and thousands of students each year. Students will find multiple things to do in Sheffield in their free time such as Sheffield Botanical Garden, Peveril Castle, Kelham Island Museum, and Escape Sheffield.

The city has a great nightlife scene with numerous student unions, including Dryad Works, Gut Level, Network, and Church - Temple of Fun. Moreover, it is a hub of indulgent food halls that include Cutlery Works, Kommune and Peddler Night Market (monthly). You can also check out our blog on the top restaurants in Sheffield to find more options for affordable dining. Shopping in Sheffield is much more exciting owing to famous avenues like Makers shops, the City Centre, and Sharrow Vale Road. You can also enjoy free street art, walking routes, and outdoor running routes around the city.

The Final Chapter 

In essence, we can say that Sheffield is a fertile ground for growth. The city is home to the finest educational system, with universities that help students grow personally and career-wise. Furthermore, they also offer tremendous opportunities for further education and employment.