The University of Cambridge is over 800 years old, and its unique collegiate system is a central part of the experience of studying here. Historically, Hughes Hall has had a unique role in enhancing and supporting graduate study, and the College welcomes excellent students working in traditional and innovative fields throughout the University. The University of Cambridge had its origins in 1209 when a group of scholars from Oxford, escaping from the hostility of townsfolk there, settled in Cambridge to study. At first, the scholars lived in rented hostels, and gradually they evolved a distinct organization with Masters and other officials. In time, the hostels gave way to ‘Halls’ and ‘Houses’ that began to define the form and function of the colleges that characterize the University to this day – the first college (St Peter’s or ‘Peterhouse’) was founded in 1284.