University of Earth's Maw

The University of Earth's Maw is a large university located in, and funded by, Threshold. It was founded in 3865 to train Thresholders in research skills. The University remains a major research institution, as well as the parent organization of Astalia's largest literary press, which was founded in 3868.

Founding and growth

When the University of Earth's Maw was founded, it offered a single program of study in research techniques, with students applying their classwork to independent projects and specific research areas. When the University Press was founded, an influx of interested and available staff led the Univerity to significantly expand its programs, with authors and researchers who sought the services of the Press also taking positions as professors and conducting research on behalf of the university. A graduate school was established in 3910.
The University has historically been open to students from throughout the Gloom. The majority of the student body is made up of Thresholders, with the percentage of students from other Gloom regions usually varying from 25-30%. While students from the Brights were not explicitly banned, they were not explicitly allowed, either, and no efforts were made to attract students from Brights regions. Humans, halflings, orcs, and such have contributed to the student body since the University's founding; however, those students have historically been residents of Threshold or the other Gloom regions prior to attending the university. In 5912, the university introduced a program aimed to attract students from the Brights. This is considered to mark the beginning of the university admitting students from the Brights.

Funding

Both the University of Earth's Maw and its press are not-for-profit organizations. The university is funded by the Threshold City Council. The funds to maintain the university come primarily from Thresholders' taxes and the shipping tariffs on imported goods. Donations make up the remainder of the university's endowment. The press is maintained by the same sources, though the majority of its funds come from sales of the books and journals it produces.
As a publicly-funded institution, the University does not charge tuition. Certain programs may have fees, though scholarships are often available in such cases. Applying to the University carries a small fee. Taxpaying Thresholders can get the application fee waived, and often also receive vouchers for housing costs.

Founding Date

3865

Type

Educational, University