The university was founded in 1968 as Newman College of Higher Education. From 2008 to 2013 it was known as Newman University College, until gaining full university status in 2013.
The university is in Bartley Green about 8 miles (12.9 km) south-west of the city centre. St Mary's Chapel is located at the heart of the campus and offers chaplaincy support to those of any faith and spaces for religious exercise or general relaxation.[9]
In 2013, the university invested £20m in developing parts of the campus, including a new library and entrance named the St Chad Building.[10] These were opened by Olympic athlete Kristian Thomas and nominated for the Education category BD Architect of the Year Award, 2012
