Oxford Educational Network

Below is the “shield” and brief history of the Oxford Educational Network, our accrediting network.

The History of OEN

The Oxford Educational Network is a Network of Universities, Colleges and Schools operating under a Royal Charter from Charles I of England.

The Charter from King Charles I of England, dated 1640, was originally granted to Wolsey Hall at Oxford.  Wolsey Hall was named for Cardinal Thomas Wolsey (1471-1530) who had set up Cathedral College which was re-named Christ Church College.  Private Halls were founded by different Christian denominations which still retain their Religious Character.

After an illustrious history, Wolsey Hall was not making sufficient profit as a Theological School in England.  A number of English, American and Canadian Theological Schools were able to secure the Original Charter and the Right to continue as the Oxford Educational Network.

The Oxford Educational Network now has schools in England, America, Canada, Central America, South America and Italy.

There is a Wolsey Hall Oxford (The Home Study College), founded in 1894 by Joseph William Knipe, of which we are not connected and should not be confused.

OEN Approach to Higher Education

All Members of the Oxford Educational Network share values and attitudes toward Excellence in Education. Excellence is a quality that surpasses ordinary standards of performance.

Each member institution functions independently and establishes curricula and programs according to a well formed mission statement, educational and institutional networking, and quality improvement procedures.

A Brief Overview of Different Approaches

European vs American:

Most non-USA universities, colleges and schools favor the English system of education which allows the student to “Read” a subject enhanced by lectures, independent study, life experience and evaluations based upon a student’s demonstrated knowledge.

Grading is usually “Pass” or “Fail”.

“Elite Schools” will only issue a grade of “Pass” to undergraduate students who achieve an equivalent grade of “B” or 3.0.  Graduate students must achieve a grade of “-A” or 3.5 to receive a grade of “Pass”. “Elite” typically means the most restrictive admissions criteria. Elite institutions generally accept fewer applicants than state administered schools and maintain a reputation for educational excellence.

The American approach is almost completely classroom-lecture based education from elementary school through graduate studies. There is little to no independent study or accomplishment by research, with the minor exception of the master’s thesis and doctoral dissertation.