The University of Essex is a campus University based at Wivenhoe Park on the outskirts of Colchester, and less than a mile from the town of Wivenhoe. It received its Royal Charter in 1965. The University has 17 departments spanning the Humanities, Social Sciences and Science and Engineering. It is a living, breathing example of the 60s love of concrete and, according to campus rumour, the architectural style is inspired by a traditional Italian hill village.