The university traces its origins to 1831, when six young men asked physician and teacher Charles Turner Thackrah to help them establish the Leeds School of Medicine. In 1874, the school became the Yorkshire College of Science. From the beginning, the university admitted students from varied religious backgrounds, in contrast with the practices of Oxford and Cambridge, which catered to the Anglican aristocracy and gentry. Nor did the Yorkshire College ever bar women from studying there, though significant numbers of female students didn't enroll until after 1896.
At first, scientific studies dominated the university's curriculum, but in the 1870s, the administration added classics, modern history, and literature. To this day, however, healthcare studies play a large role at the university, with more than 2,000 students enrolled in those courses. (See reference 1 for both paragraphs)
To understand the entry requirements for any British university, you first need to understand the British secondary educational system. Students in Great Britain begin studying for their General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) at about the age of 15. This takes about two years, at the end of which the students take GCSE exams. (see reference 2)
After passing these exams, a student who wishes to continue on to university usually has to complete A level programs in several subjects, which typically takes another two years. Students who know what they want to study at university can bypass the A level programs and take a Foundation course, which will give them a substantial background in their chosen field. These courses typically take nine months to two years to complete. (see reference 2)
The British School Ministry recently has instated a new diploma, which puts more emphasis on workplace experience. Universities throughout the United Kingdom are working on admission requirements that address the new diplomas. (see resource 1)
To qualify for admission at Leeds, a student must have completed a range of A level and GCSE subjects at a grade level not lower than C.
The university also will consider admitting students who possess other recognized qualifications, including the National Qualifications Framework, AS level, BTEC National Diploma and HND, Scottish Highers and International Baccalaureate diploma and the new diploma. (see reference 3)
In addition to the general requirements for admission, students may have to meet additional requirements established by the college in which they wish to study. Prospective students are encouraged to investigate the requirements of their colleges by visiting the university's website or contacting the pertinent department. (see reference 3)