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Best in class: The world’s top universities to study at

We take a closer look at five of the finest universities to study at in the world, as handpicked by the experts at Amber.

By LLM Reporters   |  

While we know that a university degree is not an essential element to succeed in today’s world, there’s no doubt that plenty of professions will require this level of education, while a lot of people will be keen to extend their knowledge base to degree and even masters and PhD level before starting out in the working world.

With the thousands of universities across the world, and the range of courses available to dedicate years of study to, it pays to do some research and know which universities will offer the best course for the individual, and if you’re looking to aim high and seek out the best of the best in university education, then look no further. While the rankings rarely drastically change, there’s often a tussle at the top, and here, we take a look at five of the finest universities to study at in the world, as handpicked by the experts at Amber, the leading online platform for the best student accommodation. Do any of these five surprise you?

University of Oxford

Panoramic aerial view of All Souls College, Oxford University, Oxford in a beautiful summer day, England, United Kingdom

Nestled in the heart of historic Oxford, the University of Oxford stands as a beacon of intellectual curiosity and academic brilliance. With its origins dating back to the 12th century, this esteemed institution has earned its place among the world’s top universities.

Renowned for its rigorous academic programmes and distinguished faculty, Oxford offers students an unparalleled learning experience. From arts to sciences, humanities to social sciences, there is no shortage of subjects to explore and master. The university prides itself on fostering critical thinking skills and encouraging independent thought – qualities that have produced some of history’s greatest thinkers.

But it’s not just about academics at Oxford; there is a vibrant student life that complements the pursuit of knowledge. Students can immerse themselves in extracurricular activities such as sports clubs, societies, and cultural events that cater to diverse interests.

With its stunning architecture steeped in tradition and innovation alike, wandering through the picturesque college courtyards feels like stepping back in time. But don’t be fooled by its ancient roots – behind those grandiose walls lies a thriving hub where groundbreaking research takes place every day.

The University of Oxford has nurtured countless influential minds who have shaped our world with their ideas and discoveries. From Nobel laureates to heads of state, Oxford alumni continue to make significant contributions across various fields globally.

Harvard University

Emerson Hall at Harvard Yard of Harvard University Cambridge MA USA
Image credit: R.Babakin/Bigstock.com

When it comes to prestigious universities, Harvard University is undoubtedly one of the first names that come to mind. Located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, this Ivy League institution has a long and illustrious history dating back to 1636.

Harvard’s reputation for excellence spans across various disciplines, from law and business to medicine and the arts. Its renowned faculty comprises leading experts in their fields who are dedicated to pushing the boundaries of knowledge and inspiring students.

One of Harvard’s key strengths lies in its emphasis on interdisciplinary studies. With numerous research centres and institutes, students have access to a wealth of resources that foster collaboration across different areas of study. This multidisciplinary approach not only encourages innovation but also prepares students for real-world challenges where diverse perspectives are crucial.

Moreover, being situated near Boston provides students with endless opportunities for internships, networking events, and cultural experiences. Whether exploring historical landmarks or attending lectures by prominent guest speakers, there is always something happening beyond the classroom walls at Harvard.

University of Cambridge

The New Court St John\'s College at Cambridge University

The University of Cambridge is a prestigious institution known for its rich history and academic excellence. Founded in 1209, it is one of the oldest universities in the world. Located in the beautiful city of Cambridge, England, this university offers a wide range of programmes and opportunities for students from all around the globe.

Cambridge is renowned for its rigorous academic standards and intellectual rigor. The faculty members are experts in their respective fields and students at Cambridge have access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources that enable them to pursue their passions and excel in their chosen disciplines.

Aside from academics, Cambridge provides a vibrant social environment where students can engage with like-minded individuals from diverse backgrounds. From sports clubs to student societies, there are countless ways to get involved on campus and make lifelong friendships.

Moreover, being part of the University of Cambridge alumni network opens doors to a vast array of career opportunities globally. Graduates from this esteemed institution often go on to become leaders in various industries across the world.

Standford University

Gateways to Main Quad of Stanford University.
Image credit: yhelfman/Bigstock.com

Standford University, located in the heart of Silicon Valley, is renowned for its innovation and cutting-edge research. With a strong focus on technology and entrepreneurship, Standford has become a hub for aspiring inventors and visionary minds.

One of Standford’s notable programmes is its School of Engineering, which consistently ranks among the top engineering schools in the world. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities and collaborate with leading experts in their chosen fields.

The university also boasts an impressive faculty that includes Nobel laureates, Pulitzer Prize winners, and MacArthur Fellows. This diverse range of expertise allows students to engage in meaningful discussions and gain insights from some of the brightest minds across various disciplines.

Beyond academics, Standford offers a vibrant campus life with numerous extracurricular activities ranging from sports to performing arts to community service. Students can explore their passions outside the classroom while building lifelong friendships.

Standford’s location provides unique opportunities for internships and collaborations with nearby tech giants such as Google, Apple, and Facebook. This close proximity to industry leaders gives students valuable real-world experience before they even graduate.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

Massachusetts Institute of Technology in Boston MA

Located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, MIT has a strong emphasis on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. The institution boasts state-of-the-art facilities and resources that enable students to push boundaries and develop groundbreaking solutions to real-world problems.

One of MIT’s notable strengths is its commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration. Students have countless opportunities to work with experts across various disciplines and engage in cross-pollination of ideas. This collaborative environment fosters creativity and nurtures an entrepreneurial spirit among its students.

Additionally, MIT prides itself on fostering a diverse community where individuals from different backgrounds come together to learn from one another. This inclusive atmosphere enriches the academic experience by encouraging diverse perspectives and promoting cultural understanding.

Moreover, MIT’s extensive network provides unparalleled opportunities for graduates. Alumni often go on to become leaders in academia, business ventures or make significant contributions as researchers or innovators in their respective fields. In essence, whether you’re interested in computer science or robotics; physics or architecture; biology or entrepreneurship; Massachusetts Institute of Technology offers a platform for endless possibilities. Its reputation as one of the world’s leading educational institutions speaks volumes about its commitment to excellence in education.