At Manchester University Press (MUP), our mission is to be recognized globally for the excellence of our publishing, advancing research and learning for the benefit of society and the wider environment. Building upon our rich history, situated in the heart of one of the most vibrant universities and cities in the UK, MUP has been a beacon of scholarly achievement since its founding in 1903.
Drawing upon the expertise of leading names and emerging scholars from around the world, we publish over 200 books and five journals each year, specialising in the Humanities and Social Sciences. We are committed to delivering best practice in all our publishing activities, constantly exploring innovative ways to support scholarly communications and remaining responsive to the evolving needs of the academic community and our broader readership.
We prioritize discoverability, accessibility, and inclusivity in our publications, while upholding traditional values of excellent author care, good design, and high production standards. MUP takes pride in the fact that our authors and readers return to us time and again, acknowledging our commitment to their professional and intellectual needs.
Founded in 1903, Manchester University Press has for more than a century disseminated knowledge originating from the Victoria University of Manchester. Our early publications, including James Tait’s “Mediaeval Manchester and the Beginnings of Lancashire” and Sydney J. Chapman’s “The Lancashire Cotton Industry: A Study in Economic Development,” laid the foundation for our distinctive brand. Over the years, MUP expanded its subject areas to include medical textbooks, lectures, facsimiles from the John Rylands Library, and partnerships with esteemed organizations such as the Chetham Society and Longmans, Green and Company.
Adapting to changing academic and publishing landscapes, MUP grew its scope to encompass literary criticism, social sciences, social history, and more. Our notable publications, such as Robert Roberts’ “The Classic Slum” and the Revels Plays series, have stood the test of time. Embracing technological advancements, we have moved towards accessible digital editions and print-on-demand technology to keep our extensive backlist available to readers worldwide.
Continuing our commitment to scholarly excellence, MUP now publishes over 200 new books annually, covering a wide range of disciplines, including history, literature, political sciences, economics, archaeology, and more. In 2020, we launched MUP trade books, offering thought-provoking and accessible works to a general readership. Our books, known for their immersive narratives and impactful storytelling, provoke new ways of thinking about the world.
With a reputation for bold publishing and original voices, MUP remains dedicated to disseminating transformative ideas that resonate globally. Through media coverage, positive reviews, and inclusion on prestigious “best books” lists, we engage with readers from a broad range of backgrounds and interests.
All MUP commissioning must be approved by the Editorial Committee, which is composed of academics based at the University of Manchester.
Current committee members:
Manchester University Press is a department of the University of Manchester. Its affairs are overseen by a Management Board that meets four times a year.
Current board members: