Christ Church - Student View

With Oxford's largest quad and, arguably, its most striking architecture, Christ Church can also boast an outstanding student atmosphere; once you get past the imposing Tom Tower, you will find a welcoming and vibrant community.

Right in the centre of the city, it is accessible and well placed to take advantage of activities around the university.

A prestigious college with high standards, but academic pressure is relatively moderate. Outside the busy social and academic life, it has excellent sports grounds accessible through the Meadows, which extend from the college to the River Isis.

Students enjoy beautiful on-site accommodation and also housing nearby. The general standard of rooms is high and, to make up for the absence of cooking facilities, hall food is cheap and cheerful.

A good relationship with the authorities ensures that students have a say in college administration. In principle it is easy to change course in first term, though there are some practical difficulties.

An active JCR charged with supporting students and defending their interests; it appoints welfare reps, offering counselling in college. Hardship grants are readily available for those in financial difficulty; and grants are on offer to everyone for books and travel.

The arts community is very active in drama and the media, especially music. To help with the workload, there are excellent library and computer facilities. Alumni relations are good and there is an active careers service run by old members.

Graduate employment is high and the drop-out rate extremely low (2 or 3 a year). Male:female ratio is about 3:2 but varies year to year.

Finally, there is a good mix of social groups which contributes to the strong community atmosphere of the college.