First University in the World: Country-Wise List

Find the first university in the world ever established! Explore the institutions leading the way in various fields like medicine, engineering, and agriculture. This article talks about the historical significance of these pioneering first universities in the world and provides valuable insights for aspiring international students.

Talking about the history of education abroad, there is a lot to discover, from the first university that came into existence in the world to the first ranked university in the world and is still operating. Read this article for some insights about the world's first university, 1st university in the world for various subjects and the first ranked university in the world.

Which are the 10 First Universities in the World?

Following is a list of the first universities in the world by year- 

1. University of Al-Karaouine 859 AD
2. Al-Azhar University 970 AD
3. University of Bologna (1088)
4. University of Oxford (1096 –1167)
5. Trinity College Dublin (TCD) (1592)
6. Harvard University (1636)
7. University of Sydney (1850)
8. Université Laval (1663)
9. University of Otago (1869)
10. The University of Santo Tomas (UST) in Quezon City, Philippines - (1611)

This list comprises the first universities in the world that are still operating and are popularly known as 'first universities' in their home countries.

Top 5 1st Universities in the World Details

We have described the list of top 5 first universities in this section. Check them out.

1. University of Bologna 

The first university in the world is the University of Bologna, located in Italy. Established in 1088, it was one of the first medieval European universities and has been operating for 936 years. The first university of the world and also the game changer of education, UniBo still stands strong in offering higher education to students. The University of Bologna is one of the oldest universities in the world. It is still operating and invites applications for admission each year. Also, the University of Bologna is the first medical university in the world. Check out the details of the University of Bologna in the following section-

University of Bologna Highlights

Why Study at UNIBO?

The students should consider studying across various courses at the University of Bologna is because-

• UNIBO has systematised the education system of the entire Europe for higher education.
• The tuition fee at UNIBO is lower for its UG and PG courses.

2. University of Oxford

The first university in England is the University of Oxford, located in Oxford, England. Established in 1096, the University of Oxford was one of the first medieval European universities operating for the past 928 years. The University of Oxford is also one of the oldest universities in the world. It is still operating and invites applications for admission each year. Also, the University of Oxford is known for its prestigious reputation and academic excellence.

Oxford University Highlights

Why Study at Oxford?

Applicants should consider taking admissions at Oxford for the following reasons-

• Famous academics and researchers in almost every field.
• Significant contributions in research and innovation.
• Access to a network of influential people.
• Provides a conducive and enriching learning environment.
• Highly regarded by employers worldwide.

3. Harvard University

The first institution of higher learning in the United States is Harvard University, located in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Established in 1636, Harvard University was one of the first colonial colleges in North America, operating for the past 388 years. Harvard is the first and the oldest university in USA. Harvard University is one of the most prestigious universities in USA and in the world. It is still operating and invites applications for admission each year.

Harvard University Highlights

Why Study at Harvard?

There are many reasons to study at Harvard, but some of the reasons to take admission at Harvard are as follows-

• One of the most popular and top-ranking universities in USA which is also an Ivy League school.
• Opportunities to participate in revolutionary research projects across Harvard's courses of study.
• Availability of world-class libraries, laboratories, and research facilities.
• Meaningful contributions to numerous areas of research.
• Connections to a powerful and influential network across Harvard's popular alumni base .

4. Trinity College Dublin

The first university in Ireland is Trinity College Dublin, located in Dublin, Ireland. Established in 1592, Trinity College Dublin is one of the oldest universities in Ireland, having operated for over 432 years. Trinity College Dublin is one of Ireland's oldest universities. It is still operating and invites applications for admission each year. Also, Trinity College Dublin is known for its rich history, academic excellence.

Trinity College Dublin Highlights

Why Study at Trinity College Dublin?

Admissions at Trinity College Dublin can be considered by international applicants looking at studying in Ireland because-

• World-class education: High-quality teaching and research across a wide range of disciplines.
• Vibrant campus life: Engaging student societies, clubs, and cultural events.
• Rich history and tradition: Unique and historic campus with a strong sense of community.
• Location in Dublin: Opportunities to explore a vibrant and cosmopolitan city.
• Global outlook: Strong international connections and opportunities for study abroad.

5. University of Sydney

The very first university in Australia is the University of Sydney, located in Sydney, Australia. Established in 1850, the University of Sydney has been one of the oldest universities in Australia, operating for 174 years. Renowned as the Level 1 University in Australia, the University of Sydney (USyd) is a nationally and internationally recognised research and higher education institution. 

The University of Sydney is one of Australia's oldest and most prestigious institutions of higher education. It is still operating and invites applications for admission each year. Additionally, the University of Sydney is renowned for its academic excellence, significant research impact, and picturesque campus.

The University of Sydney Highlights

Why Study at the University of Sydney?

The University of Sydney is a Go8 university in Australia, considered a prestigious university; apart from this, there are other reasons to get admission at University of Sydney and they are-

• USyd is highly regarded for its academic excellence and research impact.
• Stunning grounds with historic buildings and modern facilities. The University of Sydney is known for its beautiful campus.
• Opportunities to explore a vibrant and cosmopolitan city and work with renowned employers in Sydney.
• The University of Sydney is renowned for its exceptional career opportunities and outstanding graduate outcomes.
• Diverse and international student body with opportunities for study abroad.

Apart from the world’s first university in the world which is still operating, there are other universities also which are counted as first of the firsts based on the subjects they offer to students. Check out the world’s first universities for various subjects in the sections below. 

Which is the World’s First Forensic Science University?

The world’s first forensic science university is the National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU) in Gujarat, India. This university was formerly known as the Gujarat Forensic Sciences University. It was established first in October 2020 and was termed an institution of national importance. There are three major campuses of NFSU, and the 50+ courses are offered across 10 schools. These schools focus on areas of Forensic Sciences and offer courses at NFSU in all major areas related to this subject area. Applicants can also find specialised Forensic Science courses in:

• Cyber Security & Digital Forensics
• Behavioural Forensics
• Police Science & Security Studies
• Medico-Legal Studies 

Thus, the reason for choosing NFSU is its specialized courses across different areas of study. 

Which is the First Agriculture University in the World?

The first agricultural university in the world was established in 1848 at the Royal Agricultural University (RAU). With over 175 years of operations in the UK, RAU offers courses at undergraduate and postgraduate levels. There are around 20 undergraduate courses and MSc courses across different areas of study at the world’s first agricultural university. Applicants can apply for courses at RAU in the following areas:

• Agriculture
• Agriculture Farm Management
• Agriculture Management
• Agroecology
• Agricultural Technology & Innovation
• Archaeology

Why Study at Royal Agricultural University?

There are top three reasons to consider if willing to apply to RAU for admissions:

• RAU can enrol over 1,100+ students in one academic year.
• Various course options are available for those who want to specialise in Agriculture.
• Finally, there are good placement opportunities after graduating from Royal Agricultural University.

Which is the First Engineering College in World?

The first Engineering college in the world is Czech Technical University, established in 1707. There are over eight faculties at Czech Technical University where undergraduate, graduate and doctoral courses are offered. Some of the courses offered across different areas of study are:

• Civil Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering
• Electrical Engineering
• Nuclear Sciences & Physical Engineering
• Architecture
• Transportation Sciences
• Biomedical Engineering
• Information Technology

Courses at Czech Technical University are around 502, which are all accredited, and around 352 courses are offered in English. Though it's rated in the 2000s globally, it holds a greater value because it's the first engineering college in the world and in Europe as well. 

The first petroleum university was the Petroleum University of Technology, which was established in 1939 in Iran. This university was formerly known as Abadan College of Technology and was later renamed the Petroleum University of Technology. Courses are offered in the petroleum and natural sciences here. 

Which is the 1st Open University in the World?

The 1st Open University in the world is the Open University of UK. It was  established in 1969. Open University of UK still offers admissions to international students. The following table sheds light on the details of the Open University of UK-

Why Study at Open University in UK?

Applicants choose to study in UK at its Open University because-

• There are over 200+ areas of study to choose from across various levels of study.
• The distance courses offered at Open University in UK are all accredited and acceptable globally.
• Those who wish to take business courses go for them because management agencies also accredit them, and they are accepted globally. 

Apart from being the first university in the world and 1st university in the world for various subjects, there are also first-ranked universities. The first ranked university in the world is the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) since the ranking agencies started ranking universities in 2004.

From the ancient halls of Bologna to the innovative classrooms of MIT, the journey of higher education is a testament to human curiosity and the pursuit of knowledge. As you embark on your academic journey, remember the legacy of these pioneering institutions and let their spirit of inquiry guide you towards a fulfilling and rewarding educational experience.

Hopefully, this was an informative piece for all readers; applicants can also choose to apply to these universities. The first university in the world that still functions and empowers students to explore higher horizons is essential for career advancements and personal growth.

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