What Is a Collegiate University?
A collegiate university is a university made up of colleges that are semi-independent and self-governing but belong to the larger institution. The best-known examples are Oxford and Cambridge, where students belong to both a college and the university. Durham, London, Lancaster, York and some other universities have collegiate elements, and the model also exists in other countries.
How the system works
At Oxford and Cambridge, the central university and its departments organize lectures, laboratories, examinations and the awarding of degrees. The colleges, which are separate legal bodies, select students for admission in cooperation with departments, provide housing and dining, offer libraries and support students' wellbeing and social life. Many colleges also organize small-group teaching, called tutorials at Oxford and supervisions at Cambridge.
Each college has its own traditions, facilities, finances and identity, and students typically spend their degree there. Colleges mix students from all subjects, which builds a community across disciplines.
Applying to a collegiate university
You apply once to the university, and either choose a preferred college or make an open application, in which the system assigns you. If your chosen college does not make you an offer, another may take you from a pool. All colleges are considered academically strong, so choosing may depend on location, size, accommodation or subject offering. The university's website lists college details.
Other collegiate models
- Durham and York: colleges mainly provide residential communities and social life, with teaching in departments.
- University of London: a federation of independent institutions such as UCL, King's College London and the LSE, which award degrees under the University of London umbrella or independently.
- US residential colleges: Yale, Rice and others organize students into residential colleges for housing and community, though teaching is by the university.
Advantages and drawbacks
Advantages include a small community within a large university, strong pastoral care and intensive teaching. Drawbacks may include different resources between colleges and, for some students, a more traditional atmosphere.
Related terms
See tutorial, personal tutor, matriculation, Russell Group and fresher.
Frequently asked questions
Do I apply to the university or to a college?
At Oxford and Cambridge you apply to the university and usually express a college preference or make an open application. The college you are placed in becomes your home for social life, accommodation and small-group teaching.
What do colleges provide?
Housing, meals, libraries, pastoral support and often tutorials or supervisions. The central university provides lectures, laboratories, exams and degrees.
Are collegiate universities only in the UK?
No. Durham, London, Kent and some other UK institutions have collegiate structures, and others exist elsewhere, such as in the US with residential colleges at Yale and Rice.