But the place has many aspects that are less well known.
From its modest beginnings to its contribution to pop history and its role in the ‘world’s worst restaurant’, here are 10 interesting facts about one of the city's most important institutions.
9. Its chief leads by example
Sir Chris Husbands, Sheffield Hallam University's vice-chancellor and a highly respected educationalist, was the first person in his family to stay at school beyond the age of 15. Photo: Andrew Roe
10. Students were taught at a unique landmark
Wentworth Woodhouse - the country house in Rotherham with the longest facade of any building of its kind in Europe - hosted Sheffield City Polytechnic's PE and Geography departments from 1979 to 1988. Students lived in the mansion and took classes in the stable block, where a bar was also created. Photo: Jonathan Gawthorpe