5 Scenic Cities for Masters Study Abroad

Times Higher Education recently published details of which university cities came out on top based on its latest university rankings.

Though rankings are a useful reference point when selecting universities to apply to, we felt we’d take the more aesthetic approach for this post.

It’s true, the way your university or its city looks won’t necessarily be the most important factor when choosing where to study abroad.

But, it’s fair to say that it is always a bonus to be able to choose a university with scenic surroundings – especially as you’ll be living there for at least a year.

We’ve selected some of the most beautiful places in the world for you to peruse - and yes, they are also home to some high ranking universities.

Might we have found your perfect study destination?

The capital city of the Czech Republic, Prague is at the crossroads of Eastern and Western Europe.

With a 1100-year history, this is a culturally, artistically and scientifically renowned city - having hosted the likes of Franz Kafka, Mozart and Albert Einstein.

Academically refined, Prague is home to one of the oldest in Universities in Europe; Charles University founded in 1348.

It should come as no surprise then that a large proportion of the younger population have earned a degree or equivalent qualification – approximately 94% of 25-34 year olds.

The historic centre of Prague is a UNESCO World Heritage Site encompassing gothic monuments such as Charles Bridge, and a 600-year-old astronomical clock.

If nature is more your thing, you’ll be pleased to learn that one-fifth of Prague’s total area consists of public parks, including the Prague Botanical Gardens.

With so many heritage sites and beautiful landscapes, you’ll never run short of a great space to read or relax!

An archipelago comprising 14 islands, Stockholm is unlike most traditional cities. Equal parts water, urban areas and green spaces, this is a truly diverse location.

Sites to visit include the Djurgården and the Royal National City Park – two tranquil oases in the heart of the city.

Both contain an abundance of museums, art galleries and even sports facilities, so you are bound to find inspiration for both your academic pursuits and your leisure activities.

Indeed, Swedes enjoy a highly active lifestyle, and cycling is an excellent means of exploring this vibrant community.

Stockholm is not only Sweden’s capital, but in fact the most populated city in the Nordic countries.

And with Sweden hosting approximately 25,000 students, you’re sure to find yourself a great study partner at your university!

Home to the Nobel Prize Ceremony, Stockholm has seen a number of literary and scientific greats, including the likes of Ernest Hemingway and Marie Curie.

Could you be next in line?

Sydney is the largest and oldest city in Australia. As a result, it’s often mistakenly taken to be the country’s capital (that’s actually Canberra).

An ethnically diverse centre, over 140 languages are spoken by residents of 180 different nations. No wonder Sydney is so popular with international students!

The city is most famous for its harbour, which houses the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge.

There are also 6o fabulous beaches to enjoy in Sydney – and an average of 300 sunny days per year to enjoy them.

And Sydney is a world-leader when it comes to research and innovation, having produced a number of inspiring individuals.

These include world-famous heart surgeon Victor Chang, and John Bell who founded the Bell Shakespeare Company.

Economics is another of the city’s specialities – 45% of Australia’s top 500 companies are based there.

So, not only will you receive an excellent postgraduate education and eclectic cultural experiences, you’ll have excellent job prospects when you graduate too.

Vancouver is a bustling seaport in British Colombia, Canada.

Nestled amongst mountains, lakes and nature reserves, the city is home to some famous tourist attractions.

These include sites such as Grouse Mountain, and Stanley Park where you can view some of Canada’s most famous Aboriginal totem poles.

Vancouver also offers a highly active and varied lifestyle, from outdoor sports and leisure activities, to thriving art, theatre and music scenes.

The mixture of cultural attractions available in Vancouver is a reflection of its ethnically varied population – 52% of its residents have a first language other than English.

Vancouver’s global sensitivity is definitely highlighted in its role as host of the TED talks, which discuss major global issues and innovations in subjects such as science, technology and politics.

An excellent way to arouse your academic interests!

If you’re an international student wishing to study in the UK, you can’t go far wrong with Durham.

For starters, Harry Potter fans will be interested to know that Durham Cathedral was used to film a few scenes for the first and second films.

Most importantly, however, you’re sure to find some excellent postgraduate programmes in the city’s only higher education institution: Durham University founded in 1837.

(You can’t learn about witchcraft and wizardry here though, sorry.)

Sticking to the mystical theme nonetheless, Durham has produced many excellent authors including the likes of Mary Stewart, who is well-known for her Merlin series.

As one of England’s oldest educational centres, you’ll find plenty of heritage and history around the city.

Indeed, around 600 listed buildings exist here, including parts of the University.

With so many notable monuments, you’ll have a lot to keep you busy for the year!