Aston University

Our mission is to be the UK’s leading university for students aspiring to succeed in business and the professions, where original research, enterprise and inspiring teaching deliver local and global impact.

With a history in education dating back to 1875 as the School of Metallurgy within the Birmingham and Midland Institute, Aston University received its Royal Charter from Queen Elizabeth II on 22 April 1966. The Charter of the University outlines objectives appropriate to a technological university: “to advance, disseminate and apply learning and knowledge by teaching and research, for the benefit of industry and commerce and of the community generally: and to enable students to obtain the advantage of a university education, and such teaching and research may include periods outside the University in industry or commerce or wherever the University considers proper for the best advancement of its objects.” The emphasis given to the placement year system, and the maintenance of strong links with industry and the local area, arise naturally from the institution’s history. We are very aware of the important role we have to play in society, and we ensure that our students, staff, communities and business partners succeed to their full potential, regardless of background.

Alongside excellent collaborative links with industry and commerce, Aston is active in engaging with policy debate and development locally, regionally, nationally and internationally. Examples include business support provisions for SMEs in the UK, bioenergy policy, cybersecurity and the treatment of refugees in the EU.