University of York Mumbai set to open after official approval

Posted on Tuesday 9 June 2026

The announcement was made at an event in Delhi in the presence of India’s Minister of Education, Dharmendra Pradhan, and University of York Vice-Chancellor, Professor Charlie Jeffery.

University of York Mumbai is based in the Powai Business District of the city, an area that has a strong mix of large corporations, startups and tech companies, where students will undertake a York degree, with courses designed around high-growth industries.

A strong emphasis will be placed on research targeting global issues, including food security, environmental change, and future technologies.

Major destination

The announcement comes as India positions itself as a major destination for international higher education, following recent government reforms allowing foreign universities to set up local branches.

Professor Charlie Jeffery, Vice-Chancellor and President of the University of York, said: “With official approval from the University Grants Commission, the University of York Mumbai is set to launch a research-intensive campus deeply embedded in local business, industry, and culture, and fueled by the immense energy and ambition of Maharashtra. 

“By pairing York’s academic strengths with the State’s priorities - from AI and biotechnology to the creative economy - we are building a vibrant academic community. 

“Alongside local education leaders, industry partners, and alumni, the University of York Mumbai will tackle global challenges and nurture career-ready students, inspiring a community of life-long learners.” 

High-demand

The University of York Mumbai will offer undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in Computer Science with Artificial Intelligence and Cyber Security, Business, Economics, and the Creative Industries. Programmes in emerging fields - AI, cybersecurity and the creative industries - are designed with industry input to boost job readiness in high-demand sectors and open career pathways for Indian learners. 

Professor Lindsay Oades, Provost at University of York Mumbai, said: "Receiving the Letter of Approval is a significant milestone for University of York Mumbai and brings us one step closer to welcoming our first cohort of students. 

“We aim to equip students with the knowledge, adaptability and global perspective needed to succeed in rapidly changing industries. Our goal is to nurture graduates who are not only technically capable, but also creative, entrepreneurial and prepared to solve complex challenges in an interconnected world."

Research and teaching

The University recently announced that Professor Bob Doherty, from the School for Business and Society, and Professor Benjamin Poore, from the School of Arts and Creative Technologies, will be seconded to the University of York Mumbai to spearhead new industrial partnerships, research projects, public events, and student learning opportunities. 

Professor Doherty, during his secondment, will serve as Director of Research for University of York Mumbai, and Professor Poore will build connections with key cultural organisations in India, such as the National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA) and the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre (NMACC).

Alison Barrett MBE, Country Director India, British Council, said: “We warmly welcome the University of York's receipt of the Letter of Approval for its Mumbai campus. With its emphasis on interdisciplinary learning, strong industry engagement, and international exposure, the University of York Mumbai reflects the kind of globally connected education that can equip young people with the skills, confidence, and perspectives needed to thrive in a rapidly changing world. 

“As we work towards the ambitions set out in the India–UK Vision 2035, initiatives such as these will play an important role in expanding access to international education, strengthening student mobility and academic exchange, and preparing future generations to succeed in an increasingly interconnected global economy.”

Lindy Cameron, British High Commissioner to India, said: “Congratulations to the University of York on receiving formal approval to set up a branch campus in Mumbai. Our education partnership lies at the heart of UK-India Vision 2035, our shared commitment to nurture the next generation of global talent. I look forward to seeing them welcome their first cohort of brilliant students from all over India this year.”