Anglia Ruskin University

Anglia Ruskin University

Our story starts in 1858, when the art critic, patron and philanthropist John Ruskin opened Cambridge School of Art. The art school grew to become Anglia Ruskin University, shortened to ARU, and it’s still at the heart of our modern-day campus in Cambridge.

Over the years, a number of colleges and institutes have become part of ARU. They include the Cambridgeshire College of Arts and Technology (CCAT) and the Essex Institute of Higher Education (formerly the Chelmer Institute – itself formed from the Mid-Essex Technical College and the Brentwood College of Education). At first, these colleges combined to become Anglia Polytechnic, and then Anglia Polytechnic University in 1992.

Our early expertise in the arts and education has broadened, and today we offer courses in computing and technology, engineering, law, business, economics, life sciences and more.

We’ve been a leader in the field of health and social care since 1992, when nursing training was transferred from local health authorities to ARU. As well as our three highly regarded nursing courses, we train midwives, paramedics, operating department practitioners and social workers.

Of course, the arts and education are still important to us. We train early years professionals on our Chelmsford campus, and at our partner college in Peterborough. Our MA Children’s Book Illustrationis a world-renowned course that builds on the long tradition of Cambridge School of Art. We’ve embraced 21st-century variations on our more traditional arts courses, too – including computer games art and music technology.

Our vision consists on transforming lives through innovative, inclusive and entrepreneurial education and research.

We are determined to achieve our goals and continually strive to enhance our University for the benefit of all.