The University of Reading is located about 40 miles west of London and can be reached in around 25 minutes by train to the city center or via the Elizabeth underground line to Heathrow Airport and central London. Reading's economy and business are renowned, often called the "Silicon Valley of Europe," and it is one of the regions in the UK with the lowest unemployment rates and a stable social environment. The history of the University of Reading dates back to 1865 when it was the Reading School of Art. According to the 2025 QS World University Rankings, the University of Reading is ranked 172nd globally and 25th in the UK. The university has received the Queen's Anniversary Prize for five times, recognizing its contributions to the local community and society.

In addition to business, the University of Reading's agriculture programs rank 2nd in the UK (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024), and its meteorology and climate science programs ranked 2nd globally (CWUR 2022-23). Its education, construction, environmental science, food and nutrition, speech therapy, and other disciplines are also highly regarded and ranked both in the UK and globally.

Henley Business School is a quadruple-accredited business school and part of the University of Reading. With campuses, offices and partnerships around the world, over 7,000 students from more than 100 countries and over 97,000 alumni from 160 countries, we are a truly international institution. Our courses are enriched by up to date knowledge, research and commercial experience, and aimed at students and professionals at every stage of their career – from undergraduate through to postgraduate, PhD, MBA, DBA and executive education.