University of Oxford

Overview

The University of Oxford, in Oxfordshire, England, is one of the leading higher education institutions in the world. There is evidence that the university began teaching students in some form as early as 1096. Because of that, it is considered as the oldest university in the English-speaking sphere. The university then experienced rapid development from 1167, as more students flocked to it after Henry II banned matriculation in the University of Paris.

In its early days, the University of Oxford’s courses of study centered around Religion and Theology as well as Philosophy. During the Renaissance period, there was a revival in the study of the Greek language. These subject matters are still on offer today and the university is one of the premier destinations for students interested in them. Additionally, it is well-regarded for its Archaeology and Anthropology, as well as other Arts and Humanities programs. It is also known to offer some of the best courses in various sciences like Biology, Chemistry, Molecular Biology, Physics, Neuroscience, and Psychiatry.

The university’s previous list of programs on offer was not as extensive as today. It was only after recommendations for change came from two parliamentary commissions in 1852 that the curriculum was enlarged. Since then, the university began conferring honors for Mathematics, Natural Sciences, Law and Modern History, and many others.

In many ways, the university has contributed to conversations in religion, politics, and science. Notably, John Wyclif, who was once Master of Balliol, argued for the Bible to be published in the vernacular. It has produced, to date, 28 British Prime Ministers, including Margaret Thatcher. Plus, it was once home to the Emperor Naruhito of Japan and Aung San Suu Kyi, Nobel Peace laureate. The Oxford Philosophical Club, which included Robert Boyle and Robert Hooke, became a founding core of what would be the Royal Society. A few notable names in entertainment and literature also graduated from Oxford. Hugh Grant, Rosamund Pike, Philip Pullman, Melvyn Bragg, and J.R.R. Tolkien are just some of them. Lastly, T.E. Lawrence, the Lawrence of Arabia, also finished his studies in Oxford.

Today, the University of Oxford continues to lead the way in scientific research. To that end, it has expanded its Access and Participation Plan to become more diverse to contribute to a broader and reflective learning.