Emory University is known for its academic excellence, cutting-edge research, and location in the heart of Atlanta. However, some of the university’s most promising endeavors actually take place 40 miles away from Atlanta at Oxford College.

So, What is Oxford College?

Oxford College was established in 1836 as the original home of Emory University and is located in Oxford, Georgia. What was once the home of Emory is now one of two undergraduate campuses for students, with the other being Emory College of Arts and Sciences at the Atlanta campus. Oxford College hosts only first- and second-year students who then finish the remainder of their college education at the Atlanta campus.

To understand the pathways through Emory further, check out our blog on the topic.

What is Distinctive about Oxford?

Students at Oxford College and Emory College will receive the same access to an extraordinary education and will pay the same amount in tuition (not including financial aid). However, the campuses differ in location, community, and opportunity.

Location

The Oxford campus represents a small town setting, as opposed to the Atlanta campus which is in the heart of the city. Oxford combines a historic, tree-filled campus with all of the charms and amenities of a small town. Located just minutes from Covington Square, there are delicious restaurants, cozy coffee shops, and local shops to discover around each corner.

Community

Oxford College has a tight-knit community of about 1,000 first- and second-year students, as opposed to the almost 7,000 undergraduate students at the Atlanta campus. Not only are there far fewer students at Oxford, but they are all in their first two years of college. This distinction leads to a closeness and camaraderie on campus, where it’s easy to feel like you know just about everyone!

Opportunity

Because Oxford is composed of only first- and second-year students, there is ample opportunity to get involved on campus. Students do not have to compete with upperclassmen, leaving them 100% of the opportunity to lead organizations, participate in research with faculty, and make their mark on campus.

What is the Transition to the Atlanta Campus Like?

All students who start at the Oxford campus transition to the Atlanta campus their junior year of college. This transition can be a big adjustment, but most students find the experience offers the “best of both worlds”. They get to experience the benefits of a small campus, like smaller class sizes and more leadership opportunities, and the benefits of a larger campus, like being in the city of Atlanta and having access to more internship opportunities. This combination is not found anywhere else in American higher education, and offers a truly unique collegiate experience.

Which Campus is Right for You?

Both undergraduate campuses of Emory University are academically rigorous and full of inspired and passionate people. Deciding which campus is right for you ultimately comes down to what you want your first two years of college to look like. If you’re interested in attending Emory University, we recommend visiting both campuses (in person or virtually) and getting a feel for yourself. You can also read our blog on this question here.

Be sure to also follow us on Instagram and TikTok to learn more about both campuses and see what life is like as an Emory student.