Oxford University

One of the most influential universities in history, Oxford University was founded in 1167. Located in the city of Oxford, England, it is the oldest university in the English-speaking world. Like most medieval universities, its undergraduate programs are operated entirely by its colleges, which appoint their own masters and enjoy a high degree of independence. The oldest of these, Balliol College, was established in 1263; the second-oldest, Merton College, was established in 1264 A.D. Oxford also has a number of "Permanent Halls," some of which, over the years, have become colleges in their own right; the oldest of these is Blackfriars Hall, founded in 1221.

As it is, Oxford University is one of the most respected universities in the world, with many in the Japanese royal family studying for degrees at the university, amongst many others.