A city built for ambitious students
Choosing where to study is about more than finding the right degree. You’re also choosing the city, community, and university that will help you achieve your ambitions.
From world-leading research and outstanding career prospects to a vibrant student community and global outlook, studying at The University of Manchester offers an experience that extends well beyond the classroom.
If you're unsure whether we're the right fit for you, keep reading to discover why tens of thousands of students choose to call Manchester home.
Academic excellence and reputation
The University of Manchester is ranked the 6th best university in the UK and 46th overall in the Academic Ranking of World Universities. We’re a centre of teaching excellence and ground-breaking research, known for our academic standards and rigour.
A degree from The University of Manchester is recognised by employers around the world. We are the most targeted university by the UK's top 100 recruiters, according to the High Fliers report on The Graduate Market in 2026, reflecting the strong reputation of our graduates and the University’s commitment to employability.
Student life
Home to more than 44,000 students, you’ll be certain to find people to connect with in this city of students. You'll bump into classmates in coffee shops, continue interesting conversations after lectures, relax with friends in our many green spaces and feel part of something bigger than yourself.
The same can be said for our Students’ Union, which boasts over 400 student societies. Whether you want to try something new, meet people with similar interests, or connect with students who share your background, there is something for everyone.
The cost of living in Manchester is generally lower than in London and the city offers a range of affordable options for students. The University provides many resources to help students manage their finances. You can become a student ambassador and access paid opportunities supporting events such as open days and campus visits, sharing your experience with prospective students and their families.
The city
Manchester is known as the world’s original modern city, shaped by innovation, enterprise and culture. Today we have a thriving business community, a renowned creative scene, and a diverse international population.
The city of Manchester is famous for its music, sports, and food scene. Home to iconic artists such as Oasis, The Smiths, and Joy Division, the city continues to shape the UK’s music scene and is now home to the BRIT Awards at Co-op Live.
Football fans will recognise Manchester as home to Manchester United and Manchester City, but sport in this city doesn’t end there. Cricket enthusiasts can also visit Emirates Old Trafford Cricket Ground, which hosts both domestic and international fixtures throughout the summer months.
The city’s food scene is equally as diverse, from the famous Curry Mile and independent cafés to popular brunch spots and award-winning restaurants representing global cuisines. Whatever your tastes, there is always something new to discover.
Manchester’s appeal extends beyond the city itself. With excellent travel links, Manchester is a gateway to exploring the rest of the UK. Explore the nearby tranquillity of the Peak District for a calm getaway, or if the city life is more your style, hop on a train to the bustling cities of London, Liverpool, and Edinburgh, among others.
International students
International students are a huge part of life at Manchester, with students from 170 different countries. Our student community and the city are extremely multicultural and inclusive, with nearly 200 languages spoken here. You'll have no trouble finding restaurants, communities, or shopping for ingredients that remind you of home.
The city is close to Manchester Airport, with easy-to-use transport links that make arrivals and departures as smooth as possible. The public transport network of trains, buses and trams is accessible and student-friendly with discounts available on most routes.
Career and industry opportunities
Manchester is one of the UK’s leading business hubs, home to many major employers including PwC, Deloitte, and Siemens. The city offers students opportunities to build professional networks, gain industry insights, and access career opportunities throughout their studies.
The University of Manchester Careers Service provides tailored support from the day you start until two years after you complete your course.
Why choose AMBS?
Alliance Manchester Business School is where Original Thinkers come to study. Established in 1965 as one of the UK’s first two business schools, AMBS has built a reputation for combining academic excellence with practical business education.
Students at AMBS benefit from internationally recognised teaching and world-leading research while tackling real-world business challenges through case studies, group projects, debates, and applied learning experiences.
AMBS has a dedicated careers service and a global alumni network to help students develop the skills, confidence, and professional networks needed to succeed in competitive global industries.
Explore our undergraduate courses and discover where a degree from AMBS could take you.