The establishment of Durham University marked a pivotal moment in the history of higher education in England. Following several decades of increasing demand for higher education, the university was established by the Durham University Act of 1832. The creation of the university was prompted by various factors, including the increasing population and industrial growth of the North East of England. Prior to its establishment, the region had no university, which limited educational opportunities for its inhabitants and stifled intellectual growth. The university aimed to serve not only the local populace but also to attract students from other regions, thereby enhancing its academic prestige.

Durham University was founded with strong ecclesiastical connections, reflecting the influence of the Church of England. The initial structure of the university was framed around a new model which combined both residential colleges and a focus on a high standard of academic study. Over time, this institution developed a set of traditions distinct from older universities like Oxford and Cambridge, which were characterized by their more established practices. The setting in the historic city of Durham, with its medieval cathedral and castle, provided a unique and inspiring backdrop for academic life.

The establishment of Durham University also indicated a shift in educational philosophy, moving towards a more inclusive and progressively minded approach to higher education. The school began with a small number of students and opened its doors with a limited curriculum focusing on liberal arts, sciences, and theology, but it would grow and adapt to the changing educational landscape in the coming decades. The support and endowment provided by the Act of Parliament were crucial in securing the university's resources, ensuring its foundational stability and future expansion.