Alnwick Castle’s study abroad programme with US university to end after 50 years

St Cloud State University (SCSU), Minnesota, has had a campus in Alnwick since 1976, offering students the unique opportunity to live and study within the historic walls of the castle.

However, it has now been announced that the study abroad programme will come to an end following a final autumn term this year.

A spokesperson for Northumberland Estates who operate Alnwick Castle said: “We have always maintained a positive relationship with the university, and in 2024 we signed a five-year agreement with St Clouds, due to run until 31 March 2029.

"We were informed last week that the university wishes to bring that agreement to an early end.”

St Cloud revealed that the decision to conclude the partnership was due to fewer students participating in the Alnwick programme as study abroad options have expanded.

They added that the cost of operating the international campus had continued to rise and that participation levels were no longer high enough to sustain these costs.

SCSU president Gregory Tomso said: “Alnwick has been a transformative experience for generations of Huskies. Its legacy is deeply woven into our university’s story and the lives of our alumni around the world.

“This decision reflects the need to align our resources with how students learn and engage globally today. It ensures we can continue to provide high-quality, accessible international experiences for our students into the future.”

Students will have a final opportunity to participate in the Alnwick experience throughout autumn. A Thanksgiving event will also welcome past students back to celebrate the programmes legacy.