The history of higher education dates back to ancient civilizations, with the earliest institutions emerging in places like Greece and China. The Academy founded by Plato around 387 BCE is often considered one of the first higher learning institutions. During the Middle Ages, universities began to form in Europe, with notable examples like the University of Bologna and the University of Paris established in the 11th and 12th centuries. In the modern era, higher education expanded significantly, especially in the 19th and 20th centuries. The introduction of research universities, such as Johns Hopkins University in 1876, emphasized the importance of research alongside teaching. Today, higher education encompasses a wide range of institutions, including community colleges, liberal arts colleges, and research universities, serving diverse populations worldwide.