St. Andrews is a medieval city of 16,000 and the university is the oldest in Scotland. Its reputation for excellence has attracted scholars from around the world, including Prince William, many Scottish kings, scientist Edward Jenner, the developer of the smallpox vaccine, and writer Fay Weldon. The University of St. Andrews has a lasting impact on its graduates. Its rich history, outstanding academic accomplishments and picturesque setting provide those fortunate enough to attend the university with a truly unique experience.
Founded by a fold of ecclesiastics in 1413, the University of St. Andrews is the third oldest university in the United Kingdom. St. Andrews initially offered courses in divinity, logic and philosophy as well as both canon and civil law. The school’s popularity and attendance blossomed, and by the mid sixteenth century the university featured three distinct colleges: St. Salvator’s (1450), St. Leonard’s (1511) and St. Mary’s (1538).
Following an impressive expansion, tension with church reformers resulted in the destruction of numerous St. Andrews churches, but the college buildings were spared. In 1747, St. Salvator’s and St. Leonard’s Colleges united to form the United College. In response to a drop in enrolment during the 1800s, the University paired up with a new academic centre in Dundee. Together, they gained notable achievements in medical and applied sciences. The association of the two schools ended in 1967 with the foundation of the separate University of Dundee.
Nearly six centuries after its creation, the oldest university in Scotland continues to uphold a tradition of academic excellence that attracts scholars of international repute and students from around the world. Located in the picturesque medieval city of St. Andrews, the university is home to more than six thousand students and staff. Just 72 kilometres north of Edinburgh, St. Andrews is steeped in ancient castle and cathedral walls, defined by centuries old stone houses and home to the world’s first golf course.
For more information, visit the University of St. Andrews website.