Reputation

The University of London is recognised nationally and internationally as a centre of academic excellence. In all parts of the world, graduates have gone on to occupy influential positions in government, the professions, business and industry. Wherever you live, it is likely that you will find that you can network informally with London alumni.

University of London programmes have been available through the International Programmes (formerly known as the External System) since 1858. Studying with the University allows a high measure of flexibility for those with financial constraints, work and family commitments, or lack of local access to higher education. The International Programmes currently have over 50,000 students in over 180 countries studying for more than 100 awards.

External System dateline
1836	The University of London founded following the merger of King’s College London and University College London.
1858	Entrance criteria extended allowing candidates to sit their exams outside London. This was to make a unique contribution to the development of university education, both in this country and abroad.
1859	First examinations taken at approved centres in Britain.
1865	First examinations taken at approved overseas centres, in Mauritius
1878	UoL became the first University in the UK to admit women to degree courses. By 1900, 30% of graduates were women and three women-only colleges had been established (London School of Medicine for Women, which opened in 1874; Westfield College in 1882; and Royal Holloway College, in 1886).
Circa 1900	By the end of the 19th century, the University of London had become a global as well as a national university, serving the higher education needs of British Isles and beyond.
1908	With over 4,000 students registered, the University of London was the largest University in the UK and the fifth largest in the world.
1947	The External System played a major role in helping higher education institutions in Africa and the West Indies achieve full University status. Special Partnerships were created and only disbanded in 1970, when the last university college attained independence.
2001	Online Library launched.
2002	eCampus portal launched. Phase I: a new 1,800-page website with integrated access to the Online Library.
2007	Professor Jonathan Kydd appointed as first Dean of the University of London International Programmes
2008	The University of London International Programmes Celebrates its 150th anniversary
2010	The University of London External System changes name to University of London International Programmes