Durham University collegiate institution. This means that there are 17 distinct colleges in the University, all of which vary in terms of character, people and facilities. The Collegiate system is what makes Durham different, allowing you to meet like-minded people in a small community, providing each student with their own unique, personalised University experience.

There are lots of different things that make Durham and its collegiate system unique, but in my opinion, the one thing that makes Durham especially different and especially sought after, is its Common Rooms. Small undergraduate communities, unique to each Durham college, that are here for students! Your College experience will define your time at University, and will leave a lasting impression about the value of a small community environment where you can get involved in new things, meet new people, experience unique traditions & leave here as an accomplished graduate.

Each college has its own college staff, JCR sports clubs and societies, and becomes your home throughout your time here. During your time at your college you can represent sports teams and societies and compete against other colleges. Once graduated every college has alumni and hold events in which current and past students can mix.

The teaching at Durham University doesn’t take place in colleges like at other universities but is based in you department, meaning that there is a mix of subjects and interests and that in your lectures you get the chance to meet people from different colleges.

St Mary’s is one of the nine colleges that are based on the hill. It is a traditional college that provides fantastic facilities. It has both an amazing environment and atmosphere that provide perfect conditions for living, socialising and working.