The University of Oxford is a world-leading centre for teaching and research in the United Kingdom. It is one of the oldest higher education institutions in continuous operation, having been founded in 1096. The university has produced many notable alumni, including twelve Nobel laureates and numerous prime ministers, scientists, writers, and actors.
The University of Oxford is located in Oxford, England. The main campus comprises over 100 buildings spread across several city blocks in the centre of Oxford. In addition to the main site, there are also eight other colleges scattered around the city: Balliol College, Brasenose College, Corpus Christi College, Exeter College, Lincoln College, Magdalen College, Oriel College and Wadham College. All of these colleges are integral to the life of the university; they provide accommodation and tuition for students, and play a central role in undergraduate life. Together with the principal libraries – Bodleian Libraries – and museums (including Ashmolean Museum), they make up what is known as “the Oxbridge model” of collegiate higher education.
The University of Oxford has a long tradition of excellence in teaching and research. It was ranked first among UK universities for employability according to a 2017 survey by Times Higher Education magazine; first for research intensity according to REF 2014; fourth globally for reputation according to THE’s World Reputation Rankings 2019; sixth globally for employer reputation according to QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2019; and seventh globally for academic reputation according to QS World University Rankings 2020. In addition, it was ranked first in Europe overall (and second worldwide) by U.S. News & World Report Best Global Universities Ranking 2020 – making it one of only two European institutions (along with ETH Zurich) in the top ten list this year..