Universities
A university is an institution of higher education and research, which grants academic degrees in many subjects. A university provides both undergraduate education (an education level taken prior to gaining a first degree) and postgraduate education (which involves learning and studying for degrees or other qualifications for which a previous degree is, generally, required).
Universities are legally independent bodies which have been established by Acts of Parliament which lay down their constitution and powers. The Council or Board of Governors is the executive governing body of the institution and carries responsibility for ensuring the effective management of the institution and for planning its future development. It has ultimate responsibility for all the affairs of the institution.
Although universities have no legal responsibility for their local community many, particularly the teaching hospitals, play an important role in the life of their area.
