About
Founded in 1610 by Nicholas and Dorothy Wadham, the College now comprises up to 250 graduate students and some 450 undergraduates.
Our vibrant student community
History and archive
History and archive
Nicholas Wadham, a member of an ancient Somerset family, died in 1609 leaving his fortune to endow a college at Oxford. The hard work of translating intentions into reality fell on his widow, Dorothy, a formidable woman of 75. More
College buildings
Wadham’s architectural heritage spans a variety of building styles from the classical Oxford Gothic of the original buildings to the contemporary lines of the new Graduate Centre. More
Wadham's gardens
Wadham's six acre site comprises a variety of gardens, each with its own character and style. More
Famous Wadhamites
Following their studies here, Wadham students have gone on to excel in their careers in a wide variety of subject areas, many becoming well-known and respected experts. This list of 'famous alumni' is a small representation of the achievements of our students.
Wadham's Warden
Lord Macdonald of River Glaven Kt QC
Lord Macdonald of River Glaven Kt QC became Warden of Wadham College in 2012. As head of College, Ken Macdonald is responsible for overseeing Wadham’s administration and development. He is a founder member of Matrix Chambers and was Director of Public Prosecutions for England and Wales 2003 - 2008. More
Wadham Grace
The Wadham Grace was traditionally spoken at dinner by the Warden or Senior Fellow alternating with a Scholar.
Scholar: Benedictus sit Deus in donis suis.
Warden: Et sanctus in omnibus operibus suis.
Scholar: Adjutorium nostrum in nomine Domini.
Warden: Qui fecit coelum et terras.
Scholar: Sit nomen Dei benedictum.
Warden: Ex hoc usque in saecula saeculorum.
Scholar: Domine salvam fac Elizabetham Reginam.
Warden: Et exaudi nos cum invocamus te.
Scholar: Domine Deus, vita et resurrectio credentium, qui semper es laudandus, tum in viventibus, tum in defunctis, agimus tibi gratias pro Nicolao Wadhamo Armigero, et pro Dorothea uxore ejus, fundatoribus nostris defunctis, aliisque benefactoribus nostris, quorum beneficiis hic ad pietatem et studium litterarum alimur, rogantes ut nos, his tuis donis recte utentes, una cum illis ad resurrectionem gloriae perducamur, per Jesum Christum Dominum nostrum, Amen.
The Wadham Grace is now used only on special occasions, such as Gaudies (alumni reunions), when Fellows or Classics scholars respond to the Warden.
Research, artwork and community
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Welfare at Wadham
Wadham College takes the welfare of its community very seriously. There’s a wealth of confidential support available, all you have to do is ask.
WelfareWadham College values
Wadham has a cherished tradition of being at the forefront of advancing equality of opportunity, and celebrates vigorous debate, independent thought, and academic excellence. We seek to create a welcoming, accessible, and secure environment in which to work, study, live, and visit. Our community embraces people of all ages, backgrounds, races/ethnicities, nationalities, beliefs (including religious beliefs), genders, sexualities, dis/abilities, and appearances. This inclusiveness, underpinned by mutual respect and consideration, enriches us all.