University of Lancashire

University of Lancashire
Coat of arms
Former names
University of Central Lancashire, UCLan, Harris Art College, Preston Polytechnic, Lancashire Polytechnic
MottoLatin: Ex solo ad solem
Motto in English
"From the Earth to the Sun"
TypePublic
Established1828 (1828) as Institution for the Diffusion of Useful Knowledge
re-established 1992 (University status granted)
ChancellorRanvir Singh
Vice-ChancellorGraham Baldwin
Students25,300 (2023/24)
Undergraduates17,525 (2023/24)
Postgraduates7,775 (2023/24)
Location
Preston (Main)
Burnley
Cyprus
Westlakes, Cumbria

53°45′47″N 2°42′27″W / 53.7630°N 2.7074°W / 53.7630; -2.7074
CampusUrban
Colours
AffiliationsMillionPlus
Universities UK
Websitewww.lancashire.ac.uk
Location in Preston city centre

The University of Lancashire (previously abbreviated UCLan) is a public university based in the city of Preston, Lancashire, England. It has its roots in The Institution For The Diffusion Of Useful Knowledge, founded in 1828. Previously known as The University of Central Lancashire, Harris Art College, Preston Polytechnic and Lancashire Polytechnic, in 1992 it was granted university status by the Privy Council. The university is the 19th largest in the UK in terms of student numbers.

In December 2024, the university received approval from the Office for Students to change its name to the University of Lancashire, with the rebrand intended to come into effect by September 2025.