Established in 1841, York St John University is an open university which gained the university status in the year 2006. It was earlier known as the Diocesan College in York in 1841 and the College of Ripon and York St John in 1974. In 1977, the university began York School of Occupational Therapy. The university is amongst the best higher education institutions based on religious foundations. The degree awarding powers were confirmed by the Privy Council in 2005. Later on, in 2006, the university changed its name to the current name, York St John University. The university engages with disabled athletes and provides free creative courses to the mental health service users.

The university campus is spread over an area of 11 acres. It avails accommodation to the students. The campus features studio apartments and shared flats or houses. The hostels have dining space and cafeterias. The campus also provides internet access free of charge throughout the property. Several cafes and restaurants are nearby the campus. The campus is also close to stationery shops, departmental stores and chemist shops for students' convenience. Public conveyance is easily available from the campus. In 2004, the university opened a learning centre within the premises. The centre provides all kinds of resources like books, journals, DVDs and media equipment. The students were allowed to access any type of resource provided. The De Grey court of the campus was designed and built by the famous architect, Charles Thompson. The campus is surrounded by greenery. It provides a suitable learning environment for the students.