Institution ranked 31st out of 101 English higher education providers
The University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) has been ranked in the top third of English universities for social mobility.
In the 2023 English Higher Education Social Mobility Index, published recently, it ranked 31st out of 101 institutions.
The index, which is compiled by London South Bank University and published by the Higher Education Policy Institute (HEPI), measures the change in a student's socio-economic situation as a result of them attending a university.
Rather than focusing on graduate salaries, the league table looks at how their life chances have improved. The rankings are based on several factors including access to education, continuation and the outcomes of undergraduate students.
Professor Graham Baldwin, UCLan Vice-Chancellor, said: “We have been transforming lives since 1828 and we have always prided ourselves on being an open and accessible institution for people of all ages and all backgrounds.
"We strongly believe in the power of higher education to promote social mobility and our position in this annual league table demonstrates our success in transforming the lives"
— Professor Graham Baldwin, UCLan Vice-Chancellor
“We strongly believe in the power of higher education to promote social mobility and our position in this annual league table demonstrates our success in transforming the lives.”
The University undertakes a large number of fun and interactive widening participation activities with schools, colleges and community groups every year, with many people attending from groups that are under-represented in higher education.
In addition, the University also offers support and financial assistance to care experienced and estranged students and young carers.
Nick Hillman, director of HEPI, added: “The Social Mobility Index is now in its third year, and it has rapidly become one of the most impactful things HEPI does.
“We hear common complaints that there are too many universities and too many students, but this index provides yet more evidence that higher education institutions of all types transform people’s lives.”