Worcester College

College facilities

Library and IT services

Worcester College's library is one of its finest assets. The modern collection for students' use consists of 65,000 volumes. There is also an extensive additional collection on architectural history and its background culture and a separate law library containing books, periodicals and law reports (6,000 volumes). The magnificent Old Library houses collections of European importance.

The current library building was completed in 1736 and was built to house Dr George Clarke's great bequest of books, manuscripts, prints and drawings, which, together with Provost William Gower’s later bequest in 1771, makes the library a major holder of seventeenth- and eighteenth-century material (including one of the largest collections of English plays printed before 1750). Researchers may be interested in the special collections of prints, drawings, manuscripts and early printed books. There are particular strengths in seventeenth- and eighteenth-century literature, the English Civil War, and architectural history.

The Upper Library, which contains the modern collection intended for use by undergraduates and graduates, is open 24 hours a day. The holdings are registered on the University’s joint online catalogue. There is a special allocation in the budget for graduates, who are encouraged to make suggestions for book purchases. The beautiful old reading room, with its fine view over the college grounds, is also available as a study area.

The college has a graduate computer room and a printer which can be accessed 24 hours a day. Wi-Fi is available throughout the college, including in all graduate accommodation. 

Sport, music and college facilities

Worcester College has an active music society, chapel choir and drama society (the "Buskins"). There is a gym and a sports field on the college site.

The following are available to provide assistance to graduates:

• Graduate Officer
• Tutor for Graduates
• Senior Tutor
• College Advisors
• Dean Team (Dean, Assistant Dean, Junior Deans)
• Peer Supporters
• Head of Student Welfare
• Equalities Fellow
• Chaplain
• College Nurse
• College counsellor

Facilities for disabled students

Worcester College is committed to enabling disabled students to participate as fully as possible in college and university life. Prospective students are advised to contact the Graduate Officer to discuss any requirements and reasonable adjustments. Students should also contact the Disability Advisory Service for advice, disability support, and adjustments.

Welfare

At Worcester, you will find a team of dedicated professionals ready to offer support with whatever life deals you. We understand that University life can be stressful and that you might be facing other challenges in your personal life. Whether you need additional specialist support or just want someone to chat to, we are here to listen. The Welfare Team strives to create an environment where everyone feels welcome, respected, supported, and able to thrive. We offer multiple sources of confidential help and support within college, as well as being able to direct you to external services provided by the University or offered within Oxford.

Worcester's multidisciplinary team consists of the Dean, Assistant Dean, and Junior Deans, and Head of Student Welfare, College GP and Nurse, College Counsellor, College Chaplain, and Academic Administrator. Further information about welfare provision can be found on the college website. 

MCR

All graduates at the college are full members of the Worcester Middle Common Room (MCR), representing the graduate student body.

Worcester’s MCR is a large, diverse and active community which provides a friendly atmosphere for helping students to settle in both socially and academically.