Destination Campuses

Oxford hardly needs any introduction. The oldest English-speaking university in the world has had some form of teaching taking place there since as early as 1096. The University of Oxford is renowned for being the filming location for the Harry Potter movies, and its knack for producing Nobel Prize winners as well as Prime Ministers of the United Kingdom, including the incumbent Boris Johnson.

Peking University, China Photo by Markus Leo

Peking University is one of the country’s most celebrated universities, and judging by the sheer number of applicants, one of the most difficult universities in the world to gain admission to. It was established in 1898 at the end of the Qing Dynasty, and most of its buildings have been outstandingly preserved.

Stanford University, United States Photo by Evgeniy Ivanov

Stanford University has a special affinity with Silicon Valley. The private research university has produced many technologies, graduates and entrepreneurs, and played a key role in the development of the region. The sprawling campus grounds also attract tourists from around the world, with many making a beeline for the Memorial Church, Hoover Tower, and the Cantor Center.

Moscow State University, Russia

This is neo-classicism, on an epic scale and a key representation of Soviet architecture. Moscow State University’s imposing, symmetrical campus is quite a sight to behold. At 240m, the main building has the honour of being the tallest educational building in the world. The university is not open to the public, but you don’t have to be inside to marvel at this architectural masterpiece.

University of Melbourne, Australia Photo by Fabian Mardi

It’s located in the heart of one of the world’s most liveable cities. In other words, life can only be good at the University of Melbourne. The city campus promises an engaging experience for the day tripper, with plenty of museums and monuments to visit.

Nanyang Technological University, Singapore Photo by Corey Seeman on Flickr

Most of the buildings at the Nanyang Technological University can be considered utilitarian. However, the arrival of The Hive has significantly influenced the character of the campus, with its bold and visually arresting façade. Apart from its design, The Hive is lauded for its green and waste minimisation initiatives.

Kyung Hee University, South Korea Photo by Vantharith

Kyung Hee University is centred on humanitarian values and its approach has led to exponential growth and popularity among international students in recent history. For one, G-Dragon studied there. The neo-classical buildings look particularly stunning from May to June, when the cherry blossoms are in bloom.

École Nationale Supérieure des Beaux-Arts de Paris, France Photo by Jean-Pierre Dalbéra on Flickr

Enthusiasts of the arts would probably have the École Nationale Supérieure des Beaux-Arts de Paris on their bucket list of places to visit. Located across the Seine from the Musée du Louvre in the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, it has notable alumni that includes Edgar Degas, Henri Matisse and Claude Monet. The campus buildings are all classified as historical monuments and the architecture led to the genesis of the Beaux Arts movement.

University of Bologna, Italy Photo by Doug Davey on Flickr

Time stood still at the University of Bologna. It was founded in 1088 and the university has always been lauded in the field of canon and civil law. History junkies will be drawn to the numerous historical sites within the campus grounds, such as the Aula Magna Santa Lucia, a building that dates back to the fifth century and the University HQ, which is housed within the Palazzo Poggi that was built in the 16th century.