What are Glass Universities?
In the context of UK universities, "glass universities" is a term that emerged as a contrast to the traditional "red brick" universities. The term "glass universities" typically refers to a group of universities that were established or significantly expanded during the 1960s and 1970s, often characterized by modern architecture featuring glass structures. These universities were part of a broader expansion of higher education in the UK to meet growing demand and societal changes.
Characteristics of Glass Universities
1. Expansion Era: Glass universities emerged during a period of rapid expansion of higher education in the UK, driven by the Robbins Report in 1963, which recommended increasing access to university education.
2. Modern Architecture: These universities are known for their modernist architectural styles, often featuring glass and concrete buildings that were reflective of the architectural trends of the mid-20th century.
3. Diverse Offerings: Glass universities typically offered a broad range of disciplines and courses, focusing on modern subjects such as social sciences, humanities, business, and technology, alongside traditional subjects.
4. Accessibility and Inclusivity: They played a significant role in democratizing access to higher education, providing opportunities to a broader segment of the population beyond the traditional elite.
List of Glass Universities
The term "glass universities" is less commonly used than "red brick" or other categorizations, but some universities that are often associated with this designation include:
University of East Anglia
University of Sussex
University of Essex
Lancaster University
University of Warwick
University of Kent
University of Bath
University of Stirling
Evolution of Higher Education
It's important to note that the distinction between red brick, glass, and other classifications is not rigid, and many universities have evolved over time, adopting diverse architectural styles and expanding their academic offerings. Some universities initially classified as "glass universities" have become leading research institutions and members of prestigious groups like the Russell Group.