The University of Glasgow is the fourth-oldest university in the English-speaking world and one of Scotland's four ancient universities.
It was founded in 1451.
Along with the universities of Edinburgh, Aberdeen, and St. Andrews, the University was part of the Scottish Enlightenment during the 18th century. It is currently a member of Universitas 21, the Russell Group and The Guild of European Research-Intensive Universities.
In common with universities of the pre-modern era, Glasgow originally educated students primarily from wealthy backgrounds, however, it became a pioneer in British higher education in the 19th century by also providing for the needs of students from the growing urban and commercial middle class.
Glasgow University served all of these students by preparing them for professions: the law, medicine, civil service, teaching, and the church. It also trained smaller but growing numbers for careers in science and engineering.
The University was originally located in the city's High Street; since 1870, its main campus has been at Gilmorehill in the West End of the city
