Studying in Oxford: Universities, Student Life, and Must-Visit Places

As of 2025, there are 2 universities in Oxford. If we consider the wider Greater Oxford Area, the number increases to 4. For anyone who has ever asked, “How many universities in Oxford?” there you have the quick answer. Yet Oxford is far more than just its historic institutions: it is a vibrant city with opportunities for student life, affordable (and sometimes not-so-affordable) accommodation, and a host of career possibilities after graduation.

In this article, we will delve into Oxford’s unique academic scene, exploring what these universities and higher education institutions have to offer. Beyond the raw numbers, you will learn about the city’s bustling student life and the cost of living in this quintessentially English setting. We will also touch on everything from part-time jobs and postgraduate opportunities to which areas of town are best for new arrivals. If you are hoping to study in an environment that perfectly balances centuries of academic heritage with modern amenities, Oxford might be just the place for you.

Read on to discover the specifics about each institution, find out what life is like for students here, and understand how the local economy and job market can benefit you once you graduate. Whether you plan on applying to a degree course, seeking part-time work to support your studies, or simply exploring your options, this 2025 guide will give you a thorough overview of Oxford’s higher education landscape.

About Oxford

Oxford is one of the most recognisable cities in the United Kingdom, renowned worldwide for its monumental academic and cultural heritage. However, there is more to Oxford than its famed “dreaming spires.” Below is a concise look at the city’s key characteristics, from transport links to job prospects, so you can see how life in Oxford might work for you as a student.

A Brief Overview

• Population and Size
  By 2025, Oxford’s population is estimated to be around 155,000 residents. Despite its relatively modest size compared to some other UK cities, Oxford exerts an outsized influence on academia, research, and culture.
• Economic Significance
  Oxford is home to a thriving knowledge-based economy. Tech start-ups, medical research firms, publishing companies, and automotive manufacturing (including the MINI plant) are key contributors to the local economy. The city’s focus on research and development also draws in venture capital from across Europe, making it a hub of innovation.
• Transport Links
  Oxford is well-connected to the rest of the UK. A frequent train service links Oxford to London in about an hour, while major motorways and A-roads make commuting to nearby towns (and to airports like Heathrow) relatively straightforward. Within the city, the bus service is extensive, and many residents opt for cycling thanks to Oxford’s relatively flat terrain.

Cost of Living

Living in Oxford can be more expensive than in many UK cities outside London. This is particularly true for accommodation, which tends to be the largest budget item for most students.

• Rent
  A modest studio or one-bedroom flat can range from £1,200 to £1,400 per month. Shared houses can sometimes provide better value, with rooms averaging around £550 to £800 per month, depending on proximity to the city centre.
• Food
  Grocery costs are generally on par with national averages, though dining out in central Oxford can be pricey. Expect to pay around £12–£15 for a standard meal at a casual eatery, and more for fine dining experiences.
• Transport
  Students who live within walking or cycling distance of the university often avoid daily transport costs altogether. However, if you opt for buses, a monthly pass might cost around £50–£60. Taxis can be expensive, though rideshare apps are available.

Student Accommodation

Oxford’s universities offer various accommodation options, from traditional college halls (particularly within the University of Oxford’s collegiate system) to modern halls run by Oxford Brookes University. For those who prefer private housing, there is a busy rental market, though competition can be stiff and prices high.

• On-Campus Accommodation
  Many colleges at the University of Oxford provide accommodation for at least the first year of undergraduate study, and some guarantee it for the entire course. Oxford Brookes also offers a range of halls of residence.
• Private Rentals
  Shared houses near areas like Cowley Road or Headington are popular with students looking for a blend of affordability and vibrant local life.
• Purpose-Built Student Housing
  In recent years, purpose-built student blocks have sprung up, providing en-suite rooms and modern amenities but sometimes at a premium price.

Main Attractions and Student Hangouts

Oxford’s storied history and picturesque setting offer a variety of things to do and places to see:

• Museums and Galleries
  The Ashmolean Museum (Britain’s first public museum) and the Pitt Rivers Museum are favourites for those who enjoy history, art, and anthropology.
• Parks and Green Spaces
  Headington Hill Park, University Parks, and Christ Church Meadow are ideal for a stroll, picnic, or a quick break from studies.
• Historic Pubs and Cafés
  Oxford is famous for its traditional pubs, some dating back centuries. The city also brims with modern coffee shops that serve as informal study hubs.

Part-Time Work and Career Prospects

While studying, many students take on part-time jobs in hospitality, retail, or tutoring. Upon graduation, career opportunities are strong in:

• Research and Development (biotechnology, pharmaceutical, and medical start-ups)
• Publishing and Media (Oxford University Press and other publishing houses)
• Automotive Industry (manufacturing and engineering)
• Education (schools, tutorial colleges, language teaching)

With its mix of major research institutions, established corporations, and entrepreneurial ventures, Oxford consistently attracts employers who appreciate the city’s academic reputation and well-educated workforce.

Universities in Oxford with Degree Awarding Powers

Below, you will find detailed information about the institutions that deliver higher education within the city proper. We start with universities that have full degree awarding powers, followed by colleges and academies that teach at higher education level but rely on external validation or partnerships to grant degrees.

1. The University of Oxford

• Founded: 1096 (with formal teaching records dating back to the late 11th century)
• Students: ~25,000 (both undergraduate and postgraduate)
• Faculties: Humanities, Social Sciences, Mathematical, Physical & Life Sciences, Medical Sciences
• *Ranking: #3 in the UK (2025)
• Tuition Fees: £9,250 per year (Home students) — higher for international students, typically £26,000+ depending on the subject
• Location: Wellington Square, Oxford OX1 2JD, UK

Overview: The University of Oxford is arguably the oldest English-speaking university in the world and regularly tops global rankings. Its collegiate system comprises 39 constituent colleges, each with its own history and community. Oxford’s research output is vast, and it has produced numerous Nobel laureates, world leaders, and renowned scholars. Although gaining admission is famously competitive, successful applicants benefit from high-quality teaching, unrivalled research opportunities, and extensive networking prospects.

2. Oxford Brookes University

• Founded: Traces its origins to 1865 (gained university status in 1992)
• Students: ~16,000+ (including undergraduate, postgraduate, and international students)
• Faculties: Business, Health & Life Sciences, Humanities & Social Sciences, Technology, Design & Environment
• *Ranking: #50 in the UK (2025, according to national league tables)
• Tuition Fees: £9,250 per year (Home students), with international fees varying by programme
• Location: Headington Campus, Headington Rd, Oxford OX3 0BP, UK

Overview: Originally established as the Oxford School of Art, Oxford Brookes University evolved through mergers and expansions. Known for its modern approach and practical focus, Oxford Brookes excels in subjects such as architecture, business, hospitality, and health care. The university’s more recent developments include updated facilities, a strong international student community, and a growing research portfolio.

These two institutions are the only Oxford-based universities with full degree awarding powers. Each has its unique character, but both boast a strong reputation, modern facilities, and vibrant student bodies.

Quick Look at Oxford's Universities

*Ranking data is based on The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025.

Non-Degree Awarding Higher Education Institutions

Not all centres of learning in Oxford are officially recognised as universities in their own right. However, many of them provide high-quality courses validated by established university partners. Below are a few noteworthy examples:

1. Ruskin College

• Specialisation: Adult education and social sciences
• Degrees Awarded By: Historically affiliated with the University of West London; some courses are validated externally (arrangements can vary)
• Location: Dunstan Rd, Old Headington, Oxford OX3 9BZ, UK

Overview:
Ruskin College has long specialised in offering educational opportunities to adults from varying backgrounds, with a particular focus on social studies, public policy, and humanities. Many who have struggled to access traditional university pathways find a supportive academic environment here.

2. Oxford Business College

• Specialisation: Business, Management, and Marketing
• Degrees Awarded By: Partner universities such as the University of West London (programme-dependent)
• Location: 65 George St, Oxford OX1 2BQ, UK

Overview:
Oxford Business College is a private institution offering business-related diplomas and degrees. Its small class sizes and city-centre location draw both local and international students seeking a more focused environment. Students often benefit from partnerships with local companies, gaining practical exposure to real business challenges.

3. SAE Institute Oxford

• Specialisation: Audio production, film, animation, games programming
• Degrees Awarded By: Middlesex University
• Location: Littlemore Park, Armstrong Rd, Oxford OX4 4FY, UK

Overview:
Part of the global SAE Institute network, the Oxford branch offers courses geared towards the creative industries. Students can pursue qualifications in fields like audio engineering, film production, and gaming, with degrees validated by Middlesex University. Industry-standard studios and practical projects form a core part of the experience.

These institutions expand the variety of academic options in Oxford, offering vocationally oriented courses and niche specialisations that differ from the broad faculties of the larger universities.

Universities Near Oxford but Outside the City

When discussing “Greater Oxford,” there is no official administrative region by that name. However, the term is used informally to refer to Oxford’s commuter belt and nearby towns within Oxfordshire. If you include institutions that lie within roughly 25–30 miles of the city, the number of universities increases to 4. Two notable examples often associated with the Oxfordshire region include:

1. University of Buckingham

• Location: Hunter St, Buckingham MK18 1EG, UK

Overview:
This independent university is located about 27 miles from central Oxford. With a focus on business, law, and the humanities, it has a strong reputation for small-group teaching and offers two-year undergraduate degrees.

2. Buckinghamshire New University (Bucks New University)

• Location: Queen Alexandra Rd, High Wycombe HP11 2JZ, UK

Overview:
Situated approximately 28 miles from Oxford, Bucks New University provides a range of practical courses in business, nursing, and creative industries. It has expanded in recent years, attracting a diverse student population and forging links with local employers.

Although neither of these universities is directly within the Oxford city boundary, both are sometimes considered part of Oxford’s broader higher education ecosystem, given their proximity and interlinked transport routes. For students who do not mind commuting or living slightly further afield, these universities can represent additional options.

Conclusion

Oxford, with its two main universities—the University of Oxford and Oxford Brookes University—is a global icon of education and research. Beyond these, other specialised colleges and institutions enrich the city’s academic tapestry, forming a supportive environment for students pursuing everything from business management to creative arts.

For those who wonder “How many universities are in Oxford?” the answer stands at 2 as of 2025—enough to provide variety without the overwhelming sprawl found in larger metropolitan centres. Counting institutions in the Greater Oxford Area, that figure rises to 4, offering a broader selection of degree programmes in neighbouring towns.

When choosing a university, you should balance reputation, ranking, course content, tuition fees, and location. Each institution featured in this guide has unique strengths, whether it is the historic prestige of the University of Oxford or the practical, modern orientation of Oxford Brookes. Ultimately, Oxford’s blend of academic tradition and forward-thinking innovation makes it an exceptionally appealing place to study. From world-class libraries to lively local pubs, you can forge a student experience that is both culturally rich and professionally rewarding.

FAQ: Studying in Oxford