The University of Oxford is the oldest university in the English-speaking world. Teaching took place in Oxford as early as 1096, and the first colleges were established between 1249 and 1264.
In the centuries since then, Oxford has always been a leader for academic teaching and research. In 2016, Oxford became the first UK university to top the Times Higher Education World University Rankings for 2016 – 2017, based on its outstanding teaching, research, citations and international outlook.
Oxford attracts students and scholars from across the globe; one third of its students come from outside the UK. Over 138 nationalities are represented – naturally including the Swiss.
Oxford is a collegiate university, with 44 colleges and halls. The University’s academic departments, faculties and research centres are grouped into four divisions:
- Humanities
- Mathematical, Physical and Life Sciences
- Medical Sciences
- Social Sciences