You can discover how the early degree system worked and why Lancaster chose to become one of only six collegiate universities in the country. No university would be complete without a student body so you can discover why they chose to come to Lancaster, what they thought about the university and their accommodation, and what they did during their spare time.

Born out of innovation

Lancaster was born out of innovation. The idea of a campus university was a fairly new concept. Students were expected to take three subjects during their first year. This scheme enabled new students to study three subjects in equal depth during their first year and then specialise in either one of those areas during the Second Year.

Initially, Arts students were required to study a Science subject, and Science students an Arts. Students could also complete a combined major in two subjects. The approach was highly praised at the time because it helped to sustain interest and diversify the skills and knowledge of students at the university.

The introduction of coursework as a means of assessment was also an innovative development. Most universities relied solely upon formal examinations but Lancaster decided to incorporate a coursework element into the assessment process, thereby easing the pressure for those students who did not excel in examinations.

The following pages provide information on the construction of the new campus, the innovative collegiate system and what life was like for the first students at Lancaster.