As you navigate university options, you’ll likely encounter terms like “Red Brick” and “Russell Group”. These labels are more than just jargon. They represent some of the UK’s most notable institutions. But what do they mean, and why should you care?
Well, knowing the difference will help you make the right choices for your future.
In this blog, we’ll explore what defines a Red Brick University, delve into the history behind the term and why these institutions are vital to the UK higher education system. We’ll also compare Red Brick Universities with the Russell Group and those all-important league table rankings.
By the end of this post, you’ll have a solid understanding of these universities – helping you navigate your academic journey with confidence.
In this article:
What is a Red Brick University? UK Universities Explained
When you hear someone mention a “Red Brick University”, it might sound like a quirky bit of British slang. But it’s actually a term with historical roots defining a unique group of UK universities…
What does the term “Red Brick University” mean?
The term “Red Brick University” refers to six UK universities founded in the late-19th and early-20th centuries, in industrial cities like Manchester, Birmingham, Bristol and Liverpool. They earned the nickname from the distinctive red bricks used in construction, common during the Victorian era. So their buildings might feature red bricks, but not always!
While the bricks may seem like a small detail, they symbolise the modernity and industrial strength of the cities they were built in. These buildings also represent a break from the Gothic stone architecture, strict academic rules and class barriers of older institutions like Oxford and Cambridge.
A brief history of Red Brick universities…
Red Brick universities were born out of the Industrial Revolution. They responded to the growing demand for practical education in fields like engineering, science and commerce.
Before this, higher education in the UK was largely reserved for the elite. There was a strong focus on classical BA Hons subjects like Latin, Philosophy and Theology. But Red Brick Universities changed all that by offering BSc Hons degrees in Applied Sciences and Engineering (as well as traditional fields like Medicine and Law); subjects directly catering to the booming industrial economy.
These universities broadened access to higher education, giving working-class students opportunities previously out of reach. Many began as technical institutes or colleges, later evolving into full-fledged universities. This progressive approach helped solidify their importance and reputation in the UK’s educational landscape – something these universities still champion today.
What’s the difference between Russell Group and Red Brick?
Though often mentioned together, Red Brick and Russell Group refer to specific groups of UK universities. Here’s the difference between the two.
- Red Brick Universities: This term is all about history and architecture. It refers to universities founded in industrial cities during the Victorian and Edwardian eras. Think of them as the universities that helped fuel Britain’s industrial growth by educating engineers, scientists and future business leaders.
- Russell Group Universities: This is a more modern classification. It’s a group of universities formed in 1994 to represent 24 research-intensive institutions known for their academic excellence and cutting-edge research. The name comes from the “Hotel Russell” in London, where university leaders first gathered to discuss forming a group to lobby for research funding.
But here’s where it gets a bit complicated. Many Red Brick Universities (like Manchester, Birmingham and Leeds) are part of the Russell Group. However, not all Russell Group universities are Red Bricks. And some of the country’s leading universities (like Bath and St Andrews) are neither!
For instance, the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge are much older and fall into the category of “ancient universities”. Some newer Russell Group members (like Warwick, Imperial and LSE), don’t fit the Red Brick profile either.
What rank are Red Brick universities in the UK?
Red Brick universities remain some of the most respected institutions in the UK, consistently ranking highly across various league tables.
Here are all six Red Brick universities and their current national positions, as ranked by the Complete University Guide.
- University of Birmingham: 13th
- University of Bristol: 16th
- University of Sheffield: 18th
- University of Liverpool: 19th
- University of Manchester: 22nd
- University of Leeds: 23rd
Are Red Brick universities better?
When it comes to reputation, Red Brick Universities rank highly on academic league tables – especially as many are also Russell Group members. This connection boosts their global prestige, particularly for world-class research and high graduate employability.
So a 2:1 or a First Class degree from any Red Brick university is massively valuable.
Of course, “better” depends on what you’re looking for in a university. But Red Brick unis stand out because of their historic commitment to providing practical, modern education in rapidly growing fields. They combine a strong academic reputation with close ties to industry, meaning that students benefit from real-world applications of their studies.
While they don’t have the centuries-old tradition of “Stoxbridge”, these unis bridge the gap between history and innovation – continually adapting to give students a relevant and exciting education.
Is the University of Manchester a Red Brick university?
Yes, the University of Manchester is one of the most prominent Red Brick Universities. It was created as recently as 2004, from a merger of two older institutions – the Victoria University of Manchester (est 1851) and the University of Manchester Institute of Science and Technology (est 1824).
Today, Manchester is a leading research institution with an international reputation, especially in fields like science, engineering and the humanities. It played a major role in the development of the atomic theory of matter, and it’s where Ernest Rutherford first split the atom! Manchester uni is also a member of the Russell Group, adding to its academic prestige.
Is Oxford a Red Brick?
No, the University of Oxford is not a Red Brick University.
Founded in the 12th century, Oxford is part of a much older category of universities. Along with the University of Cambridge, Oxford is known for its long-standing traditions, historic architecture and association with some of the world’s most influential thinkers and leaders.
What is a Russell Group University? UK Universities Explained
So we’ve covered the Red Bricks. To round-off, here’s your quickfire guide to the UK’s Russell Group universities…
Why are Russell Group universities called that?
The Russell Group gets its name from the Hotel Russell in London, where the heads of 17 major universities met in 1994. The group was formed to lobby for research funding and recognition, and today it includes 24 universities at the forefront of academic research and higher education in the UK.
These universities are known for their focus on pioneering research, as well as their contributions to social, economic and cultural development. Being a member of the Russell Group is a mark of prestige, as these uni receive a major slice of the UK’s research grants and funding.
What are the top-tier Russell Group universities?
Russell Group universities consistently rank at the top of UK league tables. Known for their academic rigour, elite status and ground-breaking research, they’re pretty much all “top-tier”!
But if you’re looking for the very best, here are the top ten Russell Group unis and their national rankings, compiled by the Complete University Guide.
- University of Cambridge: 1st
- University of Oxford: 2nd
- London School of Economics and Political Science: 3rd
- Imperial College London: 5th
- Durham University: 7th
- University College London: 9th
- University of Warwick: 10th
- University of Birmingham: 13th
- University of Exeter: 14th
- University of Edinburgh: 15th
What’s the easiest Russell Group Uni to get into?
While all Russell Group unis have high standards, some are slightly easier to gain admission to than others. For example, Queen’s University Belfast, Newcastle University and Cardiff University have less stringent entry requirements compared with top-tier institutions like Oxford and Cambridge.
Russell Group universities at the lower-end of league tables also face less intense competition. This generally results in higher acceptance rates (i.e. the percentage of applicants offered a place on their courses). So if you’re looking for an easier admissions process, here are the ten lowest-ranked Russell Group unis.
- Queen Mary University: 50th
- University of Nottingham: 30th
- University of Glasgow: 28th
- Cardiff University: 27th
- Newcastle University: 26th
- Queen’s University Belfast: 25th
- King’s College London: 24th
- University of Leeds: 23rd
- University of Manchester: 22nd
- University of Southampton: 20th
However, it’s important to remember that easier doesn’t mean easy when it comes to Russell Group entry. All Russell Group unis are highly selective, so you’ll need top A Level grades, a strong personal statement and genuine passion for your subject to succeed.
If you’re still deciding on higher education options, check out our guides to the easiest degrees and simplest universities to get into, as well as the hardest subjects and most challenging admissions processes.
What’s the toughest university to get into in the UK?
The toughest universities to get into in the UK are generally the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge. They’re famed for their highly competitive application process, which includes not only high academic grades (think AAA or even four A Levels) but also entrance exams, written assessments and gruelling interviews.
The acceptance rates for Oxford and Cambridge are also notoriously low, with only a small percentage of applicants successfully securing a place. However, for those who do, the rewards are immense. These universities offer some of the best education and research opportunities in the world.
Is UCL a Russell Group university?
Yes, University College London (UCL) is one of the founding members of the Russell Group. UCL is consistently ranked among the top universities globally and is known for its focus on interdisciplinary research, innovation, and global impact. It attracts students from all over the world and offers a wide range of courses across numerous disciplines.
For more insights into this fantastic university, don’t miss our UCL admissions guide as well as comparisons with LSE, Imperial and KCL. You’ll also find a deep-dive into the reputation and rankings of London universities, if you’re set on studying in the capital.
Is Reading a Russell Group university?
No, the University of Reading isn’t a Russell Group member. Nonetheless, it is a well-respected university, currently ranked 35th in the UK. Reading boasts six subjects in the top ten in the country, including Land and Property Management, Speech and Language Therapy, Building, Geology, Agriculture, and Art and Design. So if you’re interested in any of these fields, it’s a fantastic option.
Looking to make sense of your university options?
Whether you’re drawn to the rich history of Red Brick universities or the world-leading research of Russell Group institutions, knowing the difference is key to making the right choices.
At Academic Coaching, we provide expert support with study skills and exam preparation, university applications and academic life coaching. We’ll help your higher education journey get off to the best possible start. So reach out today and take the first step toward future success!