North Staffordshire Polytechnic was formed in 1971 from the Stoke-on-Trent College of Art and the North Staffordshire College of Technology (both based in Stoke-on-Trent).

The Polytechnic was able to develop traditional strengths of the component institutions, eg ceramics, computing and sports education. However, the mining department closed as result of the decline of coal mining in the 1980s.

New subjects were developed, for example, in the 1970s North Staffordshire Polytehnic was amongst only a handful of third-level institutions in the UK to offer International Relations as a dedicated degree.

In September 1988 the institution changed its name to Staffordshire Polytechnic. In 1992 it became Staffordshire University. The 1992 UK government Research Assessment Exercise placed the International Relations Department as the nation’s highest-rated in the institution.

Staffordshire University has evolved into one of the country''s most dynamic, progressive and forward-thinking learning institutions. Always quick to adapt as student requirements change, we have become renowned for our groundbreaking new courses and first-class learning opportunities. 16,000 students make up the University''s vibrant cultural mix from the UK and around the world.

One of the first things visitors notice about Staffordshire University is the wide diversity of ages, backgrounds, cultures, nationalities and lifestyles that make up our community, we also remain dedicated to fulfilling our responsibilities as a truly international centre of learning.

Notable alumni include Jim Davies, Guitarist for The Prodigy and Pitchshifter; John Mayock, Athlete and olympian; Tom Smith, lead singer and Chris Urbanowicz Lead Guitarist for The Editors (who met and formed whilst studying Music Technology at Staffordshire University); Emma Jones, Tabloid journalist, and former editor of Smash Hits magazine.

Honorary Doctors include Ashley Blake, Nina Nannar, Phillip Taylor, Neil Morrissey, Eamon Holmes, Robbie Earle, Greg Dyke and Nick Hancock.