University of Cambridge

The University of Cambridge is one of the world's oldest universities and leading academic centres, and a self-governed community of scholars. Established in 1209, the University is rich in history.

Cambridge's famous Colleges and University buildings attract visitors from all over the world, while its museums and collections also hold many treasures which give an exciting insight into the scholarly activities of the University's academics and students.

The University's reputation for outstanding academic achievement is known worldwide and reflects the intellectual achievement of its students over more than eight centuries, as well as the world-class original research carried out by the staff of the University and the Colleges.

Many of the University's customs and unusual terminology can be traced to roots in the early years of the University's long history, and this section of our website looks to the past to find the origins of much that is distinctive in the University of today.

Mission

The mission of the University of Cambridge is to contribute to society through the pursuit of education, learning and research at the highest international levels of excellence.

Core values

The University's core values are as follows:

• freedom of thought and expression

• freedom from discrimination

Education

• the encouragement of a questioning spirit

• an extensive range of academic subjects in all major subject groups

• quality and depth of provision across all subjects

• the close inter-relationship between teaching, scholarship, and research

• strong support for individual researchers as well as research groups

• residence in Cambridge as central to most courses

• education which enhances the ability of students to learn throughout life

The University's relationship with society

• the widest possible student access to the University

• the contribution which the University can make to society through the pursuit, dissemination, and application of knowledge

• the place of the University within the broader academic and local community

• opportunities for innovative partnerships with business, charitable foundations, and healthcare

• concern for sustainability and the relationship with the environment

The Collegiate University

• the relationship between the University and the Colleges as fundamental to the nature of Cambridge

• the interdisciplinary nature of the Colleges as a major stimulus to teaching and learning

• the enhanced quality of experience for students and staff through College membership

University staff

• recognition and reward of the University's staff as its greatest asset

• the encouragement of career development for all staff

Other activities

• the opportunities for broadening the experience of students and staff through participation in sport, music, drama, the visual arts, and other cultural activities