Sheffield Hallam University was founded in 1843, originally as the Sheffield School of Design and in response to the industrial revolution, in which Sheffield established itself as a leading centre for steel production. Granted university status in 1992, the university is now the sixth largest in the UK with over 30,000 students, including 4,000 students from overseas.

It offers over 700 courses for students to choose from, with more than half its courses including an integrated work placement or similar.

The university prides itself on its health and social care courses, teacher training, and sport and physical activity. Its most popular courses by enrolment numbers are in business and administrative studies, medicine, and biology.

The university has two campuses: City Campus is at the heart of the city and located near to Sheffield railway station; and Collegiate Campus, which is a couple of miles further out and surrounded by green space. Both comprise Grade-II listed buildings alongside more modern facilities.