The University of London – a Brief History

The University of London was established in 1836 and is one of the oldest, largest and most diverse universities in the United Kingdom. It is one of the world’s leading academic institutions, recognized internationally as a centre of excellence. The University is a federation of world-class Colleges and acclaimed Institutes. Its alumni and academic staff shape the world that they inhabit. Famous former students and alumni include seven Nobel Prize Winners and over 35 past or present Heads of State. 

The following are a few of the University of London federal Colleges which you may have heard of:

• London School of Economics and Political Science – LSE

• London Business School

• University College London

• Royal Holloway

• London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine

• School of Oriental & African Studies – SOAS

• Royal Academy of Music

• Kings College London

All of the federal Colleges and Institutes differ considerably in size, age and tradition and in the courses of study they offer, but all Award University of London degrees. Collectively they ensure the standards of those degrees, and are research-based higher education institutions committed to undergraduate and/or postgraduate teaching of the highest quality in a research environment. The range and breadth of activity within the University provides it with a unique character and high level of distinction.

The University’s founding principle is to provide education for all, irrespective of race, creed or political belief.

In 1858, the University of London was granted its fourth Charter, which paved the way for the establishment of the University of London External System, now known as the University of London International Programmes, a unique global network of 50,000 students that can be found in nearly every country around the globe. They study by distance learning on more than 100 Undergraduate or Postgraduate level study programmes. 

The University of London International Academy

The University of London International Academy collaborates with 12 Colleges of the University of London to offer flexible and distance learning programmes worldwide. These are delivered through the University of London International Programmes.