The origin of universities can be traced back in the Middle Ages. Historians claim that there is neither a single founder of these universities nor certain dates of their formation. The rose of universities was influenced by great events that have happened in Europe. Economic development was soaring; commerce was spreading; and a new society was emerging which required trained lawyers, teachers and doctors. A form of post-secondary education that is different from the ones provided by monastic schools is required. These events catalyzed the growth of higher learning. The changing economic, social and intellectual climate made the creation of universities possible and indeed necessary.
The universities did not emerge as a fully blown institution of learning but began with groups of students gathered around teachers. It was informal yet spontaneous movement. The term studium generale was used for schools of higher learning. The word university, which was based on the latin word universitas meaning guild or society of masters and students, just replaced the term studium. The three archetypal universities are Paris, Oxford and Bologna. There were also other universities such as Salerno and Montpellier but the three universities mentioned are the ones that influenced the development of higher learning. Each university has a unique history and each one has produced men of great importance.
The University of Paris was believed to be founded around 1150 ( exact date is unknown). During those years, cathedral schools expanded because of the wandering scholars (students that could travel). Political boundaries between countries are not a deterrent. Paris rose as a new institution of learning and a point of attraction for the scholars. The development of the said university is credited from William of Chameaux, Peter Abelard and Peter Lombard. The inauguration of William of Champeaux as the scholasticus of the cathedr