Birmingham's history and heritage

We can trace our history as an educational institute as far back as 1843 and our name Birmingham City University reflects our commitment to, and pride in, our home city.

History

Birmingham is recognised as the UK’s second city and is a forward-looking and vibrant place in which to live and study, but its history as a major settlement dates back as early as the 12th century when it was a thriving market town. Surprisingly Birmingham has more miles of canal than Venice, and it was the extensive development of this transport network that cemented Birmingham as a key contender in the global export market.

What we're best known for

Our city has a reputation for manufacturing and invention and was a world-leading pioneer in the jewellery trade. We’re proud to say our School of Jewellery is located in the heart of Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter, where over 40 per cent of all the UK’s handmade jewellery is still produced.

Birmingham is also the birth place of world-renowned Cadbury chocolate, which came to be when George and Richard Cadbury opened their chocolate factory in Bournville, during the 19th Century.

Much of the former industrial properties across Digbeth have been converted into some of Birmingham’s most exciting independent food and drink, arts and nightlife venues. Visitors and locals alike are huge fans of our thriving street food scene, and the abundant ways to socialise in the city (think miniature golf and ping-pong!) ensure you never have a dull day out.

Birmingham today

As a city, Birmingham is proud to champion its independent businesses and diverse community, which boasts a population of more than one million people from a whole range of different cultures and ethnic groups. Birmingham is a hub for arts and culture, commerce and entertainment offering the lifestyle benefits of a capital city, at a smaller cost.

It is home to the largest financial services and creative sectors outside of London, so it’s no wonder that more young people than ever are choosing to live, work and study in the city. There are more jobs and opportunities than ever before and Birmingham’s diverse businesses and creative industries have established its reputation as an exciting, ambitious and global city.