Hello,
I am currently developing a mod for Oblivion, entitled http://www.gamesas.com/bgsforums/index.php?showtopic=969190 which adds an university to Cyrodiil, this university will allow the player, after attending lectures and completing exams to gain various attribute and skill boosts which correspond to a certain degree subject. I've included a copy of the university's prospectus to give you an indication of what the mod does. In short, each subject has 5 lectures and what I am in desperate need for are lore experts and writers, both to help me write the lecture dialogue scripts and also to proof read any work I, or any other writers produce. I would like the mod to be as closely related to Elder Scrolls lore and use in-game books as much as possible, however in some cases, for example if there is not enough books on a particular subject, developing new books might be needed, for which I also like help if possible.

If any of this interests you please feel free to message me with what you are willing to do, what subject you'd like to work on etc and I'll get back to you as soon as possible.

Cheers,
Mark

The Imperial University Prospectus

An Introduction by Chancellor Sontalir

Welcome to The Imperial University, Cyrodiil! The fact you are reading this prospectus means you are taking the first important steps into a wondrous world of knowledge, intelligence and achievement. The Imperial University is Cyrodiil’s prime higher education institution in a wide range of subjects and disciplines and has consistently been the foundations of ground-breaking research and academic progress. We, at The Imperial University, are dedicated to uncovering Nirn’s many unexplained mysteries and disseminating our collective knowledge to the next generation of leaders, scholars, scientists and clergymen. What is more, The Imperial University is open to all citizens of Imperium, regardless of class, race, or wealth, we believe enlightenment through education is a goal that should be achieved by all regardless of the consequences of their birth, and that therefore means it is available to you!

Completing one of our undergraduate degrees is one certain way of getting ahead in life, and will give you an advantage over your less knowledgeable peers in the harsh, competitive reality of Tamriel. The Imperial University also provides you with the opportunity of taking a post-graduate degree and becoming a true master of your discipline. However, I must point out now, success and accomplishment is not a certainty. All I can guarantee is that our professors and staff will provide you with the opportunity and resources to better yourself and climb the ladder of triumph, however although we can provide the ladder, you must do the climbing.

The University itself is one of the finest institutions in the land, it’s comfortable and highly maintained campus is set on the former estate of Lord Caccia Artorius, a nobleman with a dream of providing the citizens of his beloved land with a beacon of knowledge and enlightenment. Originally privately owned and named The University of Cyrodiil, The Imperial University was donated to the Imperium on Antorius death-bed, a gesture which has allowed the institution to flourish to echelons previously unimaginable and adopt its rightful place as the pinnacle of mortal intellect and achievement. In departure I will leave you with the dying words of our founder and the motto of our most prestigious university: “Knowledge: The Architect of Victory.”

What we offer

The Imperial University is currently offering 8 Journeyman degree courses and 7 Masters degrees. Masters degrees can only be taken after successful completion of the corresponding undergraduate course. All Journeyman courses take place over a 5 week period and culminate in a final examination. A satisfactory conclusion to the exam will result in the student being awarded an Imperial Diploma, recognised throughout Tamriel.

The University can also offer students on-campus accommodation of various types and cost, a summary of which can be found further on in this prospectus.

The degrees we offer are as follows, all have a subsequent Masters course unless otherwise stated:

Mortal and Bestiary Studies: A discipline concerned with the study of all of Nirn’s living creatures, men and beasts.

Cyrodiilic Geography: The study of Cyrodiil’s natural and artificial landscape.

Daedric Studies: Degree based on the various Daedric princes and the plains of Oblivion.

Divinology: An academic insight into the Gods and Goddesses of Tamriel. There is no Masters degree available for Divinology, however a Journeymans Degree in this subject allows the student to take any Masters course.

Literature and the Arts: An anolysis of art and fiction, past and present.

Imperial Politics: An examination of the local governmental and dynastic structures of Cyrodiil

Military and Social History: An assessment of Cyrodiil’s past, in terms of both peace and war.

Arcanology: Investigating and anolysing the use of magicka.

Further information on these subjects is available further on in this prospectus.

Membership of The Imperial University also grants students access to the Imperial Library which contains almost every book and work available in Cyrodiil and possibly even the wider world.

Entry Requirements and Cost

Although The Imperial University is dedicated to being accessible by all there are limitations attached to his philosophy. Firstly all applicants are required to sit a general knowledge Admissions Test before being allowed to start a degree course, the test is not designed to block the application of any individuals but allows the university to make better use of its scholarship programme. Those applicants who score high on the test may be eligible to receive a scholarship which effectively subsidises a portion of the tuition fee. Those failing, or performing poorly on the test will be expected to pay the full price. Admission Tests are held every day at 2pm in the Admissions Office located in the Campus Terrace.

The base fee for a Journeyman Degree is 5000 Septims, paid at the beginning of the semester. This cost covers the students educational services, such as lectures and library use. However the outcome of the Admissions Test can potentially reduce this cost to 2,500 Septims, therefore allowing the brighter students easier access to our facilities.

Masters courses are 8000 Septims, however the result of the student’s Journeyman Degree can reduce this cost potentially to 4000 Septims.

Accommodation

Students are not required to rent student accommodation or stay on campus during semester time, however on-site accommodation is available to provide a more comfortable study environment. The varieties of accommodation are as follows:

Communal Residence: Communal Residence in located on the basemant level of the main university bar and has a lively community vibe. Students receive their own bunk and must share amenities with other students. This service is available for only 150 Septims a semester.

Castle Dorms: One of the most affordable accommodation options. The Castle Dorms are shared rooms for two individuals. The Castle Dorms are conveniently located near the university lecture theatres. Castle Dorms are 500 Septims per semester.

Library Quarters: The Library Residence is the perfect accommodation for the most studious of students. Located within the library building this private room comes fully furnished and also has access to a shared kitchen and dining room. Library Residence is available at 1000 Septims per semester.

Campus Terrace. The most expensive and luxurious of accommodation, The Campus Terrace accommodation is located within the heart of the campus courtyard with easy access to all university utilities and outlets. The Campus Terrace is a fully furnished two-story private house and costs 2000 Septims per semester.

Degree Profiles

Mortal and Bestiary Studies

Mortal and Bestiary studies is an examination of the expression of life in Tamriel. Those choosing this degree can expect to study in depth not only the various fauna that inhabit Cyrodiil but also the racial characteristics of all of her people. Special attention is paid to the more unorthodox beasts of Cyrodiil, such as the minotaur, troll and dreughs, whose abilities, strengths, weaknesses and locations are all investigated and explained to the student.

At a Masters level this degree is one of the most exciting we offer and features a wide range of field research in the wilderness locating and collecting samples and possibly discovering new creatures.

This degree is perfect for anyone looking to pursue a career as an adventurer, woodsman and hunter.

Cyrodiilic Geography

Cyrodiilic Geography is the study of our wondrous province of Cyrodiil’s physical makeup, be it made by the Gods or by Men. Students taking this degree will examine and study the various natural landmarks and their significance as well as the location and history of important sites in Cyrodiil. The climatic differences of the counties of Cyrodiil are also explained as well as the architecture and layout of our major cities.

At Masters level, Geography students will be expected to uncover new landmarks and thoroughly explore our province.

This degree is ideal for individuals who wish to work in adventuring, exploring or in the military.

Daedric Studies

Despite the recent controversy, we at the Imperial University are still dedicated to providing this important degree module. This subject will uncover the secrets and machinations of the various Daedric Lords while also examining their minions and their home worlds in Oblivion. The local laws and customs of Daedra worship are also illustrated.

At a Masters level Daedric Studies is potentially one of the most exciting degree courses and encourages the student to interview Daedra worshippers and potentially encounter Daedra themselves.

This degree is perfect for anyone seeking a career in a magicka based career or in the Imperial Battlemages.

Divinology

Sometimes seen as the counter to Daedric Studies, Divinology is our oldest and most well-established subject. Those taking this degree will explore and learn about the Nine Divines, their influence on the world and their relationships with each other and ourselves.

Due to the nature of this degree, no Masters course is available. However gaining a Journeyman’s Degree in Divinology provides access to all Masters courses.

Divinology is essential for anyone wanting to seek admission into the clergy or local governance.

Literature and the Arts

Literature and the Arts, commonly referred to simply as ‘The Arts’ is one of our less practical courses and concerns examining and critically anolysing art in all its forms, including tapestries, books, paintings and plays not only from today’s greatest artists but also from those remaining in history.

At a Masters level students have the opportunity to uncover lost artefacts of magnificent beauty, interview their favourite artists and read lost articles not viewed by mortals for centuries.

The Arts is fundamental for anyone wishing to take up a performance career.

Imperial Politics

Imperial Politics is the study of Cyrodiil’s governance structure, both present and past, the major political events of the province will be examined as well as the current political structures of the various great cities of Cyrodiil. Traditional and contemporary issues in Imperial Politics will also be examined.

At the Masters level Politics provides an excellent opportunity to travel and explore the provinces towns and ancient centres of power.

This degree is essential for anyone wishing to work within politics, the military or travel.

Cyrodiilic Military and Social History

Cyrodiilic Military and Social History is one of our most popular degrees and allows students to gain knowledge over a wide subject area. Military conflict has played a large part in shaping the province into what it is today and therefore this subject plays special attention to the various battles and wars, which along with their commanders have come and gone on Cyrodiilic soil. The method and impact of these conflicts will also be assessed to see how they were fought and how they have altered the social fabric of Cyrodiil and the wider world.

Students taking their Masters degree in Cyrodiilic Military and Social History can expect to embark on exciting archaeological expeditions, exploring and examining battlefields, fortifications and other areas of importance.

This degree is ideal for anyone wishing to seek a career in the military or as a scholar.

Arcanology

Arcanology is the study of magicka, its effects, implications and applications. Although Arcanology covers the entire scope of magicka it pays special attention to Restoration, Destruction and Alteration magic types, which are traditionally espoused as the fundamental aspects of arcane knowledge. The laws and customs of magicka will also be examined, including the history and activities of the Mages Guild.

Masters students taking Arcanology can expect to take active part in exciting field research either on their own, or alongside Imperial Battlemages, to uncover artefacts of magical importance or observe magicka application first hand.

Arcanology is essential for anyone wishing to work within a magicka based career, in particular as a healer or Battlemage.

Interested?

Individuals interested in applying for The Imperial Library should direct all their inquires to the admissions office located on Campus Terrace. Once registered, candidates will be asked to attend an Admissions Test (explained above) which will provide them with the opportunity to gain an Imperial University Scholarship. Students may only begin tuition upon the payment of their entry fee.

Feel free to use all of these:


http://www.imperial-library.info/fsg/xui-alarticle2.shtml

http://tamriel-rebuilt.org/?p=lore/books§ion=136754

http://tamriel-rebuilt.org/?p=lore/books§ion=137898

http://tamriel-rebuilt.org/?p=lore/books§ion=164663

http://tamriel-rebuilt.org/?p=lore/books§ion=143818

http://tamriel-rebuilt.org/?p=lore/books§ion=154418

http://tamriel-rebuilt.org/?p=lore/books§ion=137896

http://www.imperial-library.info/fsg/xui-alarticle1.shtml

http://www.imperial-library.info/fsg/xui-alarticle3.shtml

http://tamriel-rebuilt.org/?p=lore/books§ion=190215

http://www.imperial-library.info/fsg/xui-alarticle4.shtml

http://tamriel-rebuilt.org/?p=lore/books§ion=186507

http://tamriel-rebuilt.org/?p=lore/books§ion=183042

http://tamriel-rebuilt.org/?p=lore/books§ion=189602

http://tamriel-rebuilt.org/forum/viewtopic.php?t=17243

http://www.imperial-library.info/cgi-bin/yabb2/YaBB.pl?num=1241116926

Crap, I thought Her Hands was an official text.

:lmao: not with all that repetition etc

To the OP - The only place in Cyrodiil that you can lawfully study Magica is in the Mages Guild - that's the Lore

The distinction between a college and a Uni is that a Uni has to offer substantial courses in five recognised major and totally distinct fields of study - so that would be a minimum of 5 faculties

You're falling into the worst trap that I am victim to - too long and wordy with too little usable content. Not so effective. Better to create several small documents that each have partial information - that is the ES way and it is far more effective. Too much content turns people off. In fact you could have a preface with the titles of your Faculties and a number the courses like this:








- you fill in the blahs if you will, but leave the question marks blank etc. Just give people samples and let your ooc game mechanic descriptions fill in the rest.

Well, you know what I mean - do it your way, make it better, try and make it Imperial-centric, don't create a loooooong description that includes every detail - gaming is not like real life - so you can make it very effective by just hitting the highlights if you choose them well

a university, NOT 'an'! :flame:

[/grammar ordinator]

And the 'an' before 'historical' was actually a newspaper typo, so don't perpetuate that mistake either.

Not to change the topic or anything, but "an history" and "an historic" are perfectly acceptable grammar usages - just uncommon, and fairly archaic now.

I tend to find 'a' with that kind of thing tends to fit better than 'an'.
Depends on how you say it I suppose...
Grammar buddies :foodndrink:

as for the a/an historic. 1st, its not just a typing error its a valid way of saying it, but not in the US in my opinion. In some english dialects, the h at the front is silent, so they actually say "an 'istoric occasion" or something like that. For that case, the word starts with a vowel (phonetically) and so you must use the article an. Which reminds me of the word apron, once way back the word was actually napron supposedly, and at one time the article just up and stole the n so it switched from a napron to an apron. Now that's weird!

and back on topic, I think 1999 has some good advice. Don't give everybody all that, but give them a summary of all that. I can tell you I didnt read through it all, just kind of skimmed. Reading on a computer screen that long makes my eyes tired (because of the refresh rate, these new monitors arent near as bad as the old crt ones though)

Well, it is http://www.wsu.edu/~brians/errors/anhistoric.html. But, as Davbninja pointed out, if you drop your 'h' sound and go for 'istoric, then the 'an' would be more appropriate. But, really, those 'h's are there for a reason, ye ken.

as for a/an: http://www.wsu.edu/~brians/errors/a.html. Nifty site, thanks google!

As for the mod... sounds a wee bit too much like schooling for my tastes. I'm already doing that in real life - let me live my fantasies where hitting things with swords and looting chests grants me financial and social success...

yeah, it annoys me good when someone tries to act all proper and say "an Historic" with a distinct h sound. Sorry buddy, in English if the word starts (phonetically at least) with a consonant, then you use "a"

That being said though, I am no master of grammar. Your grammar is easily confused when you live amongst a mix of languages, so my English tends to be more of a hybrid. (sometimes I backward English talk.)

and by the way, great sig there Alais...whatever
I guess they don't eat in Morrowind, so why should they poop? It's Obl that gets me worried 'cause they actually do eat. Where does it all... go?


Here is some more info...
APRON
The protective garment was once known as a "napron." from the French "naperon" which in modern French means a napkin. However there was a process in English of the "n" moving from the article "an" to the noun and "a napron" became "an apron." Similar words include "adder" which was once "a nadder", "numpire" and "norange" (originally from the Arabic "naranj")

Hey,
Thanks for the replies. When I wrote the OP i did actually think 'an university' sounded a bit wierd but I went with it regardless.



Does this only apply to teaching the actual ability to cast spells. Because the arcanology course is more about the applications and history of magicka as opposed to actually be taught how to cast spells occassionly.



What about the arcane university?



Ye I've had this criticism before, unfortuantly its one i cant seem to shake off. The role of the prospectus was to kind of act like an in-game read me. Perhaps it would work better to remove the degree profiles and either create a new book just containing these, or individual course profiles for each subject.

Cheers,
Mark

Oh and thanks for all the lore sources, they look really helpful.

That's the spirit - feed it to them in small bites so they stay hungry and look for the next book to find out about this or that.

A tricky question - I think you need to read the stories about Galerion the Mystic for starters and get a feel of where the Mages Guild came from. Personally I suspect that unless it was a sanctioned Divine Order - or possibly the Psyjics then the Mages Guild would be looking for ways to remove the offenders by whatever means. There is a serious rivalry between the Telvanni and the Mages Guild for example that stops little short of war ...

ps There is a book called Galerion the Mystic btw - you might find that in the Imperial Library fan forum.


on that offshoot - about 'H's - I always found that when someone is brought up to speak properly - rather than forced or posig then full Hs can be charming. but when they are putting it on then it becomes horrendous, even if they are otherwise charming people ... unless they are 'forces of nature who naturally trample over all rules and opposition without the least idea that is what they are doing - then it's a larf.

Actually, sorry to stretch this out... but it's not an error. The fact that it is an aberration does not make it erroneous. English is a language of almost more exceptions than rules. It is not formulated logically. If this subject is of interest to you, http://www.alphadictionary.com/articles/drgw007.html is a good discussion of the phonetic history of the 'an-h' form.

Anyway, back to the mod. While I do really like the idea, I feel like there might be too much overlap with existing bodies (the Arcane University and the Mages Guild, etc). What might be a good way to get around this is to attach certain faculties of the University to these existing bodies - for example, add a Military History scholar to the Fighter's Guild etc. I think the idea of adding in a whole new university building might be overkill in Oblivion's relatively small gameworld. It might be more realistic to add other (purely scholarly) departments onto the Arcane University - after all, many of the subjects you described have some connection to magic, and arcane arts/academia seem to go hand-in-hand in Tamriel. You could simply expand the university building rather than adding a whole new one.... But I can see from your thread that you've already gone quite a way to modelling the campus, so you probably don't want to start over.

:bolt: Grammar purists...

We're watching you... scum... :ninja:


Regarding the mod: definitely throw in some new books and the articles from http://www.imperial-library.info/. There are already a lot of lore books in TES IV in random people's houses - there should be more than just a collection of these in a university, which would have more detailed and exclusive documents.

That's a good idea. I was once putting together a house mod that included a good library, but then I thought, this is stupid, its just a cheap way to get all the books without trying... But the idea of checking out TIL and adding some stuff would have been a good idea! (Grammar alert! should have had an ' on "its" as a contraction of it is)

And don't be afraid to ask questions at the forums of TIL. They are some very smart people there.