10 Best Cities to Study and Work in the UK
.jpg)
While the UK's education system is globally recognized for being world-class and academically rigorous, it offers much more than just lectures and textbooks. It provides an environment where students can grow, explore, and flourish both academically and personally.
With William Shakespeare, George Orwell, Oscar Wilde, and many more world-renowned playwrights, poets, and authors, literature is at the heart of the place.
Britain not only coined the term 'pop music' but also gave the world many legendary pop artists like the Beatles and the Rolling Stones.
Moreover, there is a lot of diversity arising from Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. The cities have a charming and magnificent aura with medieval-style architecture.
With an overall diverse and rich culture, the UK proves to be one of the best places for international students, providing them with exposure and the best educational institutions.
Here are the top cities with a blend of top-class education and quality of life.
10 Best Cities to Study and Work in the UK
London
Being the largest city and the capital of England, London is a hub of opportunities, education, and a cosmopolitan experience. Over 40 universities are a part of London, making it a dream destination for scholars from all over the world. It is not only the home for many prestigious institutions but also entertainment; no doubt, leisure is one of the major parts of London's economy.
From classical music appreciators to new-age music fans, it provides something for everyone. Apart from being a forerunner in education and culture, it welcomes diversity and young talent, making it a great host for everyone. London has a significant number of globally ranked universities, making it a leader in the education sector, specifically for international students.
Imperial College London
- 1
With the QS ranking of 2 in the world and 1 in Europe, it is the best.
- 2
It offers undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral courses and programs across STEMB subjects.
- 3
The university offers 110 undergraduate courses, as well as 200+ postgraduate courses.
- 4
Many Nobel laureates and prestigious academicians have been a part of it.
- 5
Imperial graduates command the highest median salaries in the UK within three years of graduation.
- 6
Imperial provides resources for students who plan on working part-time.
- 7
Students can work in shops/cafes/bars, or tutor part-time.
University College London
- 1
Ranked 9th as per QS ranking, it is a pioneer in this field.
- 2
It is the second-largest university by total enrollment in the UK.
- 3
It provides over 650 master's programs and over 500 undergraduate programs.
- 4
The undergraduate courses are available in the fields of Arts & Humanities. Engineering, Science & Mathematics, Social Sciences, and Medicine.
- 5
UCL offers specialized master's programs in fields like Finance, Management, Healthcare, Business Analytics, AI, and Data Science.
- 6
UCL's student support website provides guidance on visa regulations and finding part-time jobs in London, such as in retail, cafes, tutoring, and campus services.
King's College London
- 1
As per the QS ranking King's is 31st in the world and 5th in the UK.
- 2
It ranks 1 when it comes to nursing.
- 3
There are over 180 undergraduate programs, along with a diverse range of master's programs, where almost half of the students are international.
- 4
The courses offered have a wide range of subjects such as Arts, Humanities, Social Sciences, Business, Law, Sciences, Engineering, and Health Sciences.
- 5
King's career and employability service provides information about temporary job opportunities across all faculties and campuses.
- 6
Opportunities for student ambassadors in part-time roles and ad hoc work are also available.
Edinburgh
The capital of Scotland, Edinburgh, is known as the "Athens of the North" and is one of the top preferences for students all across the world. It has a unique blend of academia and culture. With a prominent art scene, it hosts the world's largest art festival, called the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. With many museums, galleries, and art centers, it is a main attraction for art aficionados. When the art scene merges with its significant tech and research sectors, it creates a complete educational experience for students.
The University of Edinburgh
- 1
Ranked 34th in the world, it is one of the leading institutions in the world.
- 2
Combined, it has more than 800 undergraduate and graduate programs.
- 3
Almost half of the student population is international, making it diverse and safe.
- 4
The university offers a wide range of courses across various disciplines like Arts, Humanities, Social Sciences, Medicine, Veterinary Medicine, and Science and Engineering.
- 5
The university also provides assistance and resources to students who are interested in part-time and vacation jobs or internships.
Edinburgh Napier University
- 1
As per the Times Higher Education World University ranking, it is the number one university in Scotland.
- 2
It provides more than 250 undergraduate and graduate courses.
- 3
The university provides extensive courses in the fields of Accounting & Finance, Biological Sciences, Building & Surveying, Business & Management, Computing, Criminology, Psychology & Sociology, Design, Photography & Advertising, Engineering, English & Publishing, Film, Journalism & Media, Health & Social Care, Law, Marketing, Music, Nursing & Midwifery, Sports & Exercise Sciences, Teaching, Tourism, Hospitality & Events, and even Acting.
- 4
There are work opportunities within the university for students as student ambassadors. There is also information provided for students who are interested in part-time work.
Manchester
Manchester is one of the most happening and student-friendly cities in the UK. Manchester promises an unforgettable experience. Manchester is often referred to as the "Capital of the North" of England. The city is globally recognized for its rich industrial history and modern urban development.
Over the years, Manchester has also emerged as a leading educational hub, attracting thousands of international students from across the world. The city offers specialized international support, career counseling, and international student societies at the universities. Furthermore, Manchester's location offers excellent connectivity to major UK cities and Europe via Manchester Airport. Students benefit from access to internships, part-time jobs, and graduate employment opportunities in sectors like Finance, Digital Technology, Healthcare, Manufacturing, and Research.
The University of Manchester
- 1
With a ranking of 35 in the world, it has more than 700 graduate and undergraduate programs.
- 2
It is home to 45% international students.
- 3
The University of Manchester offers a diverse range of courses in various disciplines such as Arts & Humanities, Biology & Biochemistry, Mathematics, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Physics, Economics, and Business.
- 4
Students can find a wide range of part-time job opportunities on the university website in various sectors such as administration, bars and restaurants, conferences/exhibitions, customer service, IT/web design, market research, shop/retail, and translation
Manchester Metropolitan University
- 1
It is one of the biggest universities in the UK with 330,000 students from 170 countries.
- 2
The university provides several courses in the fields of Arts, Humanities, Business & Management, Science, Engineering, and Health & Education.
- 3
Students can find plenty of temporary, part-time jobs in different sectors such as marketing, IT, student ambassadors, and even sports, which are provided by the university website.
Glasgow
Being the most populous city in Scotland, Glasgow does not disappoint when it comes to also taking the lead for culture, fashion, and finance. The city has more than 12,000 companies providing more than 410,000 jobs.
Glasgow is a fascinating place, and the influence of education can be guessed by the existence of the Mitchell Library, which has 1.3 million books. Glasgow is the home for major national art organizations such as the Scottish Opera, Scottish Ballet, BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, etc. Glasgow provides affordable living costs compared to other UK cities, along with student discounts in transport, entertainment, and retail, making Glasgow both financially accessible and culturally enriching for students coming from abroad.
The University of Glasgow
- 1
Dating back to the 18th century, the University of Glasgow is one of Scotland's ancient universities.
- 2
The university provides more than 300 undergraduate and graduate courses.
- 3
The courses offered are in the fields of Arts and Humanities, Engineering, Medical, Veterinary, and Life Sciences, and more.
- 4
Students can find an opportunity to work part-time on the official website. It can be temporary, fixed-term, or permanent contracts.
- 5
There are international student support team pages for individuals applying for job roles.
Glasgow Caledonian University
- 1
With over 100 courses, Glasgow Caledonian University is home to 23,000 students from over 130 countries.
- 2
The university believes in inclusivity and sustainability, providing courses in the same domains.
- 3
The courses are provided in various domains such as Computing, Engineering, Health & Life Sciences, Business, Creative Industries, Social Sciences, and other fields.
- 4
Many part-time jobs are advertised at the Career Hub Portal of the official website.
Newcastle Upon Tyne
Newcastle Upon Tyne, also known as Newcastle, is one of the most happening and exciting cities in the UK. Newcastle proves the stereotype of the UK not having authentic food wrong by providing local delicacies such as pease pudding and stottie cake.
However, it is not limited to local food options but has a wide array of multinational cuisine cultures. It is known for its nightlife, especially attracting tourists to it. What the city offers is not limited to external stimulation but an introspective approach too. It has a strong reputation as a poetry center.
Despite its rich quality of life, Newcastle is known for its affordable cost of living compared to other major UK cities, offering international students a budget-friendly lifestyle without compromising on quality, which is specifically advantageous for students. Being the home of prestigious universities like Newcastle University, it offers global academic standards.
Newcastle University
- 1
With its foundation dating back to 1834 Newcastle University has been a forerunner in education.
- 2
The university is ranked 4th in the UK for sustainable development by Times Higher Education Impact Ranking
- 3
The University is home to 29,000 students from 135 countries.
- 4
Newcastle University provides over 185 undergraduate and 300 postgraduate courses for students to choose from.
- 5
Undergraduate courses are from various fields such as Arts, Humanities & Social Science, Business, Engineering, Health & Medical Science, and Sciences.
- 6
Postgraduate courses include courses in Computer Game Engineering, Digital Marketing, Accounting, and Finance & Strategic Investments.
- 7
Graduate certificates and diplomas are also available in areas like Early Childhood Disability Support, Education, and Environmental Management.
- 8
Students can easily find part-time jobs in shops, bars, restaurants, and call centers. However, there are also jobs available for specific courses.
- 9
The university also holds a part-time job fair every year where employers from different sectors, such as event management, healthcare, and hospitality, hire candidates.
- 10
On the official website, there is also support provided for students who are looking for part-time jobs.
Bristol
The city has been the birthplace of many academics and scientists, such as Nobel Prize-winning physicist Paul Dirac. These associations are not merely coincidences but the result of the city's enthusiasm towards education.
The city has an artistic inclination as well, making it the 'City of Film' in 2017. Apart from education, Bristol has a thriving nightlife, equally contributing to the economy of the city.
University of Bristol
- 1
Ranked 51 in the world and always among the top 10 in the UK, the University of Bristol is one of the best.
- 2
The University of Bristol provides courses in the fields of Art, Law & Social Sciences, Health & Life Sciences, and Science & Engineering.
- 3
Students from over 150 countries are a part of the university.
- 4
Students can find part-time job opportunities with local employers or even field-specific employment, such as NHS jobs, art jobs, and retail jobs.
- 5
There are many university or on-campus jobs available, such as postgraduate student ambassador, teaching support roles, etc.
The University of Law
- 1
The University of Law is a private university that provides undergraduate and postgraduate courses in Law, Business, Psychology, Criminology, Policing, and Computer Science.
- 2
The university has a wide range of career opportunities for students and professionals, ranging from student information officers to campus representatives.
- 3
The jobs in academia as a lecturer are also available.
- 4
Depending on the nature of the job, it can be permanent, contractual, or seasonal.
Nottingham
Nottingham combines modern urban living with historic landmarks such as Nottingham Castle, the Robin Hood heritage sites, and the Old Market Square. Nottingham has a booming economy with retail, tech, and enterprises. It offers a lot of opportunities to international students in these sectors and many more.
University of Nottingham
- 1
The University of Nottingham has been ranked among the top 20 universities in the UK according to the QS world ranking.
- 2
They have also been awarded the title of Sports University of the Year in 2024
- 3
The university offers courses in Arts & Humanities, Engineering, Medicine & Health Science, Science, and Social Science.
- 4
Part-time jobs are offered on campus as well as by local employers.
- 5
Part-time jobs include roles of social media ambassadors, research assistants, catering & hospitality staff, invigilators, sports assistants, and administrative roles.
Nottingham Trent University
- 1
Nottingham Trent University was formed by the amalgamation of several institutions of higher education in Nottingham.
- 2
The university won the UK 'University of the Year' five times in six years.
- 3
The university offers courses in the following domains - Animal Rural & Environmental Science, Architecture, Design & Built Environment, Arts & Humanities, Business, Law, Science & Technology, and Social Science.
- 4
There are part-time job opportunities on the official website in different fields. Students can also provide volunteer work, which would boost their resume.
Birmingham
With a robust service sector, Birmingham is the hub of manufacturing and engineering. It is the largest center for employment in public administration, education, and health. Birmingham is home to many literary giants such as J.R.R. Tolkien, political playwright David Edgar, and science fiction author John Wyndham.
Along with providing satisfaction to the intellectual palate, the city also has an extraordinary food culture and is the only city outside London to have Michelin-star restaurants. The city is home to five major universities. It is one of the top cities in the UK when it comes to hosting international students across different age groups.
University of Birmingham
- 1
The University of Birmingham is the 11th largest in the UK in student population.
- 2
The university provides courses in the fields of Arts & Law, Engineering & Physical Sciences, Life & Environmental Sciences, Medicine & Health, and Social Sciences.
- 3
The campus of the university provides one with everything like shops, bars, cafes, and even its own transportation.
- 4
International students can get advice and guidance from the UK Council for International Students' Affairs.
University College Birmingham
- 1
The university offers courses in the areas of Hospitality & the Culinary Arts, Hairdressing & Beauty, Tourism, Business Enterprise, Marketing, Business Management, Accounting, Finance, Event Management, Sports Management, Sports Medicine, Sports Therapy, and Early Years Education.
- 2
University College Birmingham provides services for students who are interested in part-time work.
- 3
A lot of opportunities are available for students in retail, gym, and hospitality.
- 4
Career fairs are often organized by the institution throughout the year.
Leeds
The official tourism website of Leeds by the City Council describes Leeds as - A city at the heart of the action, bursting with life and cultural energy. A vibrant, creative community with award-winning national theatre and dance companies, a world-class arena, and a thriving independent food scene you won't find anywhere else.
But it offers more than it promises. Leeds has seen exceptional private sector growth compared to any of the UK cities. Leeds is home to 109,000 companies. Along with the work opportunities, Leeds has the fourth-largest student population in the country.
University of Leeds
- 1
Ranked among the top 90 universities in the world as per the QS World University Rankings, the University of Leeds is a prestigious institution.
- 2
The university offers over 500 undergraduate and 300 postgraduate programs across a broad spectrum of disciplines.
- 3
Major areas of study include Arts, Humanities, Engineering, Social Sciences, Business, Law, Environment, and Health Sciences.
- 4
The university attracts students from over 170 countries, ensuring a diverse and inclusive learning environment.
- 5
Leeds is internationally recognized for its research output and industry engagement, making it a strong choice for academic and career advancement.
- 6
Part-time job roles for students include positions as student ambassadors, research assistants, administrative support, and roles in retail and hospitality.
- 7
The university also hosts career fairs and employer networking events throughout the year.
- 8
Leeds also has developed expertise in more distinctive and rare specialist areas such as Colour Chemistry, Fire Science, and Nanotechnology.
Cambridge
Cambridge is well known for its reputation as a study center. Beyond its academic reputation, Cambridge is a hub of innovation and entrepreneurship, often referred to as the 'Silicon Fen' due to its thriving technology and start-up scene.
Cambridge also has a really strong musical scene that both classical listeners and contemporary ones can enjoy. Two major music festivals, called the Cambridge Music Festival and the Summer Music Festival, take place in November and July, respectively.
Apart from its artistic side, the stunning architecture of its ancient colleges, the scenic river Cam with its famous punting tours, and the cobbled streets filled with bookshops, museums, and art galleries create a unique and inspiring environment.
University of Cambridge
- 1
Ranked at number 6 globally, the University of Cambridge is a collegiate public research university founded in 1209.
- 2
Courses are available in Arts & Humanities, Social Sciences, Natural Sciences, Engineering, Technology, Law, Business, Education, and Medicine.
- 3
The university has produced over 120 Nobel Laureates, including key figures in Science, Literature, and Economics.
- 4
Cambridge has a highly international student body, with students from more than 140 countries.
- 5
Through its Career Service, the university supports students with internships, vacation schemes, research placements, and part-time jobs with the college department and research centers.
- 6
On-campus roles include library assistants, lab technicians, catering staff, and teaching support.
Conclusion
Frequently Asked Questions!
Absolutely. Most institutions have career support services and job portals. Cities like Manchester and Glasgow also host job fairs and offer industry-specific roles.
Edinburgh (home of the Edinburgh Fringe Festival), London (West End theatres), and Cambridge offer rich cultural experiences alongside top-tier education.
Yes. For example, the University of Bristol (QS Rank #51) and the University of Nottingham (top 20 in the UK) offer world-class education outside the London metro area.
The UK is home to over 160 universities and offers a blend of world-class education, rich culture, safety, and personal growth opportunities, making it a top choice for students globally.
London tops the list with over 40 universities, cultural diversity, global job opportunities, and a vibrant lifestyle that balances academics with arts, music, and entertainment.
Yes, most universities provide resources and guidance for part-time work. Cities like Manchester, Glasgow, and Edinburgh also offer strong industry connections and on-campus jobs.
Cities like Glasgow, Nottingham, Leeds, and Newcastle are praised for their affordable living costs and excellent academic infrastructure.
Universities such as the University of Edinburgh and the University of Manchester have up to 45% international students, promoting a multicultural environment.
Imperial College London (QS World Rank #2), University College London (UCL, QS #9), and King’s College London (QS #31) are among the top universities globally.
Yes, cities like Cambridge (Silicon Fen), Edinburgh, and Bristol are hubs for technology, innovation, and research with thriving start-up cultures.
