Photograph by michela
The University of Durham is considered by some to be the third oldest university in England, behind Oxford and Cambridge. It was founded by Act of Parliament in 1832 and granted a Royal Charter in 1837.
Durham University is a collegiate university. For my American readers, the best way I can describe this is to think of the colleges as the houses in Harry Potter, except that Durham has 16 colleges and generally magic is not part of the courses of study. John Snow and Stephenson colleges are on the Stockton Campus. Collingwood, Grey, Hatfield, Josephine Butler, St. Aidan’s, St. Chad’s, St. Cuthbert’s, St. Hild & St. Bede, St. John’s, St. Mary’s, Trevelyan, University (which is affectionately called Castle), and Van Mildert Colleges boast mainly undergraduate populations though there are postgraduate members. Ustinov College is exclusively for postgraduate students. Each college provides accommodation, programs, activities, and common spaces for its members.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site is found at the heart of Durham University. Durham Castle built in the 11th century is home to the undergraduates of University College. Durham Cathedral, one of the finest Norman structures in Europe, was built between 1093 and 1133 to house the remains of St. Cuthbert. Induction and Congregation (Graduation) ceremonies are held within the Cathedral.
Currently Durham University is ranked sixth in the University League Table. (theguardian.com) There are 27 academic departments within the University whose responsibilities include conducting research and providing lectures for students. Durham University has a Chancellor which differs from most American universities whose head is usually a president. Sir Thomas Allen became Chancellor in 2012.
If you’d like more information about Durham University, please visit their web page at https://www.dur.ac.uk/ and for a short information video check out https://www.dur.ac.uk/about/.
