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Research-Inspired Education: Empowering the next generation of Citizens of Change
04/08/2026
Professor Linda Ralphs, Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Education and Learning Innovation), reflects on how the University of Leicester is combining world-leading research, outstanding teaching and real-world experience to prepare students for the future.
At the University of Leicester, we believe education should do more than help students gain knowledge. It should inspire curiosity, encourage innovation and equip people with the skills and confidence to make a difference in the world.
Over the past five years, we have continued to strengthen our approach to research-inspired education, ensuring students learn alongside experts at the forefront of discovery. From tackling global health challenges to exploring space, heritage, sustainability and social justice, our students are engaged with the ideas and issues shaping the future.
This commitment to outstanding education has been recognised nationally. In 2023, Leicester was awarded Gold in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF), placing us among the UK’s leading universities for teaching quality. More recently, our 2026 National Student Survey results showed our highest levels of student satisfaction since the survey was redesigned, reflecting continued improvements across almost every area of the student experience.
A defining feature of a Leicester education is the opportunity for students to engage directly with research. Through our Research-Inspired Education initiative, students do not simply study existing knowledge – they contribute to its creation. Working alongside academics and industry partners, they develop critical thinking, problem-solving and analytical skills that prepare them for the complex challenges facing society.
At the same time, we have continued to create a learning environment where students from all backgrounds can thrive. Through curriculum developments and initiatives that promote inclusivity and representation, we are ensuring that students encounter a broad range of perspectives and experiences throughout their studies. This helps create a richer learning community and prepares graduates to succeed in an increasingly diverse and interconnected world.
We have also become one of the first universities in the UK to provide Microsoft 365 Copilot to all students, helping them build the skills and confidence to use AI responsibly and effectively in their studies and future careers.
Employability remains central to our educational mission. Every undergraduate student now benefits from 100 hours of work-related learning embedded within their degree, giving them opportunities to develop professional skills, gain real-world experience and build valuable connections with employers. This reflects our commitment to ensuring Leicester graduates are not only academically accomplished, but also equipped to succeed in a rapidly changing workplace.
As demand for flexible learning continues to grow, we have also expanded opportunities through distance learning, professional development programmes and employer-focused education. These developments allow us to reach new learners while responding to changing workforce and societal needs.
Together, these achievements demonstrate the strength of Leicester’s approach to education: combining world-leading research, innovative teaching, inclusivity and employability to help students realise their potential. As we look ahead, we remain committed to empowering the next generation of Citizens of Change – graduates who are ready to shape a better future for their communities, professions and the wider world.