The University of Portsmouth traces its origins to June 1, 1870 (or 1869 in some …
The University of Portsmouth traces its origins to June 1, 1870 (or 1869 in some sources) when it was established as the Portsmouth and Gosport School of Science and Art. Throughout the late 19th century, the school occupied multiple buildings in Old Portsmouth and Southsea. The main premises, located at the Crown Sale Rooms in Pembroke, welcomed both male and female students. Due to its coastal location, the school played a crucial role in providing technical instruction to engineers and skilled workers, many of whom found employment at the city docks, including the Royal Navy at the Portsmouth Royal Dockyard. The curriculum covered a diverse range of skills such as practical geometry, artistic anatomy, architectural, and mechanical drawing. Additionally, the school offered evening classes for local artisans.
Portsmouth Municipal Technical Institute and the College of Art: In 1894, following education reforms granting local authorities control over technical and manual education, the Borough of Portsmouth established the Portsmouth Municipal Technical Institute. This development led to the restructuring of the Portsmouth and Gosport School of Science and Art, which became the College of Art. The institution played a vital role in further and higher education, offering courses in chemistry and engineering.
20th Century: The construction of the Park Building began in 1903 behind the Portsmouth Guildhall, designed by local architect G.E. Smith and completed in 1908. This building incorporated a combination of Flemish and Renaissance architectural styles. Concurrently, the Portsmouth Municipal Technical Institute transitioned into the newly established Portsmouth Municipal College, sharing the Park Building with the College of Art, the Portsmouth Day Training College, and a public reference library. The building, now known as the Park Building, remains in use by the University. In 1911, male and female Students' Unions were established.
Post-World War II: After World War II, the decline in the demand for engineering skills prompted the college to diversify its curriculum, incorporating arts and humanities.
Portsmouth College of Technology: In 1953, the Portsmouth Municipal College, renamed the Portsmouth College of Technology, became the Regional College for Southern England.
Polytechnic Status: In 1969, the institution achieved polytechnic status and was renamed Portsmouth Polytechnic. By the late 1980s, it stood as one of the largest polytechnics in the UK.
University Status: The University of Portsmouth was inaugurated on July 7, 1992, allowing it to validate its own degrees under the Further and Higher Education Act 1992.
21st Century: The University of Portsmouth took on a prominent role in local sports by becoming the main shirt sponsor for Portsmouth F.C. for the 2018–19, 2019–20, and 2020–21 seasons. In December 2022, the university faced an employment tribunal ruling related to alleged racial discrimination.
Campuses:
Langstone Campus: This smaller of the two campuses, situated in Milton on the eastern edge of Portsea Island, overlooks Langstone Harbour. Historically, it housed the University's School of Languages and Area Studies. Former student residences, Queen Elizabeth Queen Mother, Trust Hall, and Langstone Flats, were closed and demolished.
University Quarter: The University Quarter is a cluster of buildings around the city center, specifically the Portsmouth Guildhall area. This area encompasses most of the university's teaching facilities and the majority of Student Halls of Residence, excluding Langstone student village, Rees Hall, and Burrell House.
University Library: Formerly known as the Frewen Library, it underwent an £11 million extension in 2006 and was inaugurated by crime writer P. D. James. The Faculty of Science also received investments, with renovations to the aluminum-clad main building, St Michael's.
Creative and Cultural Industries Faculty: Opened in September 2006, this new faculty reflects the university's commitment to fostering creativity and cultural contributions.
Interdisciplinary Projects: The University of Portsmouth entered into a partnership with the Military Technological College of Oman in 2013, providing academic guidance and accreditation for the education of 4,200 students in technical roles for armed services and civilian employers in Oman.
Organisation and Structure:
Governance: The university is ceremonially headed by Chancellor Karen Blackett, with day-to-day operations overseen by Vice-Chancellor Graham Galbraith and the University Executive Board. The Board of Governors holds ultimate responsibility.
Faculties: The University of Portsmouth is composed of five faculties, each hosting various schools, institutes, academies, and departments.
Finances:
Economic Impact: The University of Portsmouth contributes significantly to the British economy, estimated at £1.1 billion, and brings £476 million to the city, as of 2017.
Academic Profile:
Academic Offerings: The university provides a comprehensive range of academic programs, with over 200 undergraduate degrees, 150 postgraduate degrees, and 65 research degree programs.
Research:
Research Excellence: Over 60% of research submitted by the university to REF2014 was rated as world-leading and internationally excellent, with particularly high ratings in Allied Health Professions, Dentistry, Nursing and Pharmacy, and Physics.
Rankings:
National and Global Rankings: The University of Portsmouth consistently ranks well in national and global rankings. In 2024, it was placed 47th in Complete, 33rd in Guardian, and 88th in Times / Sunday Times national rankings. Globally, it secured positions in QS (502=), THE (401–500), and ARWU (901–1000).
Student Life:
Students' Union: The University of Portsmouth Students' Union (UPSU) serves as a registered charity, providing support and representation for all students. It offers various support services and development opportunities.
Societies and Sports Clubs: The Union supports over 150 student-led groups, including sports clubs, societies, media groups, and volunteering opportunities.
Student Media: The university has two active student media outlets, Spyglass (student magazine) and Pure FM (student radio station), which collaborates with local radio stations.
Notable People:
Faculty: Distinguished faculty members include Deborah Sugg Ryan, Jen Gupta, Nizar Ibrahim, Claudia Maraston, Alessandro Melis, June Purvis, Neil Rackham, David Wands, and others.
Alumni: Notable alumni of the University of Portsmouth include Mohammed Abubakar Adamu, Karen Blackett, Paola Arlotta, Simon Armitage, Ben Fogle, Tim Peake, Grayson Perry, and many others across diverse fields such as politics, science, arts, and business.
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