James, Earl of Wessex, 18, prepares for major life change as new chapter looms

The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh's 18-year-old son, James, Earl of Wessex, is officially embarking on his exciting new life chapter. 

James is starting his undergraduate journey this month at the Royal Agricultural University in Cirencester, Gloucestershire, where he will study Rural Land & Property Management. On 20 September, new students officially arrived at campus accommodation ahead of student induction on Monday, according to the university website. 

Induction will take place from 21 to 25 September before classes begin on 28 September and run until December . 

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"The Royal Agricultural University is similar to the majority of other British universities and operates its academic delivery via semesters," the university explains. 

"Programmes are taught across two semesters. For most students, your course will be taught and assessed in each semester with an examination period towards the end of each semester."

A new chapter 

James opted to forgo a gap year and head to university straight after completing his A-levels. The decision was confirmed in a statement by Buckingham Palace. 

"Having achieved the grades he needed, The Earl of Wessex will be going to the Royal Agricultural University to study Rural Land & Property Management. He will head straight there without taking a year out," the Palace said. James' three-year degree will focus on estate management, rural business, and consultancy.

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The young royal will be swapping his family home, Bagshot Park, for Cotswolds living. The university campus, set in Cirencester, has a range of accommodation, including catering options for students. Undergraduates often spend their first year living at university halls.

HELLO!'s Deputy Beauty and Lifestyle Editor, Melanie Macleod, who grew up in Cirencester, said of the area: "The town has the same upmarket vibe he'll be used to in Surrey, with the added bonus of Cotswold charm."

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His sister just finished her university journey

Earlier in the summer, James' big sister, Lady Louise Windsor, graduated from the University of St Andrews with an English degree. 

Prince Edward and Duchess Sophie were the picture of proud parents as they beamed alongside their daughter in her graduation portraits, taken at the University House following the ceremony. 

 "Congratulations to Lady Louise on her graduation from St Andrews University!" the royal family congratulated Louise on her four-year undergraduate journey.