Durham University
Summary
Durham University is a collegiate public research university located in Durham, England. It is one of the oldest universities in the UK, founded in 1832. The university has a reputation for excellence in teaching and research, and consistently ranks among the top universities in the UK and the world. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses across various disciplines, including arts, humanities, sciences, engineering, and social sciences. The university is known for its collegiate system, with 16 colleges providing accommodation, support, and social activities for students. Durham University also has a strong tradition of research excellence, with research strengths in fields such as energy, materials, and life sciences. The university has a global outlook, with international students making up around a quarter of the student body, and partnerships with universities around the world. Overall, Durham University is a prestigious and highly-regarded institution with a rich history, a strong academic reputation, and a commitment to providing students with a high-quality education.
History
Durham University is a collegiate public research university located in Durham, England. It was founded in 1832, making it one of the oldest universities in the UK. However, its origins can be traced back to the 11th century when a monastic community was established at Durham Cathedral. This community became a center of learning, with monks producing manuscripts and engaging in academic pursuits.
In the 19th century, there was a growing demand for higher education in the north of England, and in 1832, Durham University was established as a center for learning and research. The university was initially based in Durham Castle, which had been the residence of the Prince Bishops of Durham. The castle was leased to the university for a nominal fee by the Bishop of Durham, and it provided the university with a grand and imposing home.
The university quickly established a reputation for academic excellence, with a focus on theology, classics, and law. In 1852, the university established a department of natural sciences, and in the following years, it expanded to offer a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses across various disciplines.
In the 20th century, Durham University continued to expand, with the establishment of new departments and the development of new research areas. In 1963, the university merged with the College of the Venerable Bede, a teacher training college, and in 1977, it merged with the University of Newcastle upon Tyne, forming the federal University of Durham and Newcastle.
However, this arrangement proved difficult to manage, and in 1992, Durham University became an independent institution once again, with its own governance structure and a renewed commitment to academic excellence and research.
Courses
Durham University offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses across various disciplines. These courses are designed to provide students with a high-quality education and prepare them for successful careers in their chosen fields.
The university offers undergraduate courses in subjects such as business, humanities, social sciences, sciences, engineering, and law. These courses typically last three or four years and provide students with a broad education in their chosen subject area, as well as opportunities to specialize in particular areas.
At the postgraduate level, Durham University offers a range of taught and research degrees, including master's degrees, PhDs, and professional doctorates. These programs are designed to provide students with advanced knowledge and skills in their chosen fields and prepare them for careers in academia, industry, or other sectors.
The university is particularly well-known for its courses in business and management, with its Durham University Business School consistently ranked among the top business schools in the UK and the world. The school offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs, including the highly-regarded MBA program.
Durham University also has a strong tradition of research excellence, with a focus on areas such as energy, materials, and life sciences. The university's research is interdisciplinary in nature, bringing together experts from various fields to address complex issues and find solutions to real-world problems.
Global MBA rankings
Durham University's Global MBA program consistently ranks among the world's best MBA programs, with numerous accolades from various rankings and accreditation bodies. Here's an overview of the Global MBA's rankings:
- Financial Times Global MBA Rankings
Durham's Global MBA has been consistently ranked among the top 100 MBA programs worldwide by the Financial Times. In the 2021 Financial Times Global MBA rankings, Durham's Global MBA was ranked 21st in Europe, 9th in the UK, and 73rd in the world.
- Economist MBA Rankings
The Economist's MBA rankings placed Durham's Global MBA program 9th in the UK, 30th in Europe, and 70th in the world in their 2021 rankings.
- QS Global MBA Rankings
In the 2022 QS Global MBA rankings, Durham's Global MBA was ranked 33rd in Europe and 58th in the world. The program also ranked 12th globally for entrepreneurship and alumni outcomes.
- Financial Times Masters in Management Rankings
Durham's Business School has also been ranked highly in the Financial Times' Masters in Management Rankings. In the 2021 rankings, Durham's Business School was ranked 5th in the UK and 40th in the world.
- Association of MBAs (AMBA) Accreditation
Durham's Global MBA program has been accredited by the Association of MBAs (AMBA), an internationally recognized accreditation body for MBA programs, since 1987.
Job integration rate
Durham University has an excellent track record of job integration for its graduates, with a high percentage of students securing employment within six months of graduation. The university's focus on practical learning, industry connections, and career development initiatives contribute to its high job integration rate.
According to the latest data from the Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA), 93.3% of Durham University graduates were in employment or further study within six months of graduation, making it one of the top-performing universities in the UK.
Durham University's Careers and Enterprise Centre provides a range of career development services to support students in their job search, including personalized career advice, job fairs, employer networking events, and skills workshops. The centre also offers internship and placement opportunities, enabling students to gain hands-on experience in their chosen field and make valuable industry connections.
The university's strong partnerships with global companies also provide students with opportunities to engage in industry-led projects and gain insights into the latest industry trends and practices. These partnerships also lead to job opportunities for students, with many graduates securing employment with top-tier companies such as PwC, Deloitte, and KPMG.
In addition to its focus on practical learning and industry connections, Durham University's strong academic reputation and research-led approach also contribute to its high job integration rate. Employers recognize the value of a Durham University degree, with many graduates securing employment in high-demand industries such as finance, consulting, and technology.