York St John University

York St John University is a public university located in the city of York, England. It traces its origins to the York Diocesan Training School established in 1841. The institution gained full university status in 2006 and is a member of the Cathedrals Group of universities.

History

The institution was founded in 1841 as the York Diocesan Training School by Grey Coat Hospital trustees and supported by the Diocese of York. In 1846, it moved to the Lord Mayor's Walk site, where it remains today. It was later renamed the Church Training College, York, and subsequently became York St John College in 1974, following a merger with the Ripon College of Education. The college was a constituent college of the University of Leeds from 1990, awarding its degrees, before becoming an independent higher education corporation in 1999. It was granted the power to award its own research degrees by the Privy Council in 2005 and achieved full university title in 2006.

Campus

The main campus is situated on Lord Mayor's Walk, adjacent to the York City Walls and a short walk from York Minster. The campus features a mix of historic and modern buildings, including the original Grade II listed building, the De Grey Court, and the contemporary Fountains Learning Centre. The university has expanded with facilities such as the Creative Centre, housing studios for fine art, photography, and film production. A second campus, located at York St John University London, operates in the London Borough of Tower Hamlets.

Organisation and governance

The university is governed by a Board of Governors, with the Archbishop of York serving as its Visitor. The Chancellor is the Archbishop of York, Stephen Cottrell, and the Vice-Chancellor is Professor Karen Bryan. It is structured into several academic schools, including the York Business School, the School of Humanities, and the School of Science, Technology and Health. The university is a member of Universities UK and the Cathedrals Group.

Academic profile

The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes across disciplines such as business, education, health sciences, humanities, and the creative arts. It has a strong reputation in teacher training, nursing, psychology, and sport science. Research is organised within institutes like the Institute for Social Justice and the York St John University Centre for Digital Heritage. The university collaborates with institutions such as the NHS and various FE colleges across Yorkshire.

Student life

The York St John Students' Union (YSJSU) provides representation and organises societies, sports clubs, and events. The union is affiliated with the National Union of Students. The university has over 50 student-run societies and sports teams that compete in the BUCS leagues. Key annual events include Freshers' Week and the YSJSU Awards. Student media includes the independent newspaper, The Yorkie.

Notable alumni and staff

Notable alumni include television presenter Helen Skelton, actor and writer John Godber, and MP Rachael Maskell. In sport, alumni include England rugby union player Megan Gaffney and FA referee Rebecca Welch. Former staff include theologian John Macquarrie and poet W.H. Auden, who served as a lecturer in the 1930s.