The Northern Polytechnic Institution opened its doors in 1896 and London University began to accredit its degrees in 1911. The Polytechnic of North London was formed in the 1970's after a merger with another establishment, and in 1992 became the University of North London.
Business studies is the most popular of the courses here on the Holloway Road, but environmental and social studies, humanities, computing, engineering and education are also on the menu. There is a strong commitment to providing access to higher education for under-represented groups at North London: many courses are designed with mature students in mind, for the university has a larger proportion of them than any other in Britain.
Holloway Road is an intensely urban milieu, a section through the city of London that resists easy categorisation. It is grimy and clogged with traffic, yet it promotes a can-do, creative vibe. The local paper reports on regeneration plans, but the area is still an exciting place to be.
Islington is nearby for those who can afford it, but the jewel in the crown of students' union entertainment at UNL is the Rocket complex, which handles everything from quizzes, through live music to club nights good enough to compete with the professionals.
Accommodation is guaranteed to first-years who live more than 25 miles away and the accommodation office is a good source of advice on the private rental sector.
Among the alumni are MP Candy Atherton, children's television presenter Jamie Theakston and Garth Crooks.
Call 0207 753 3355 to find out more.