Smarter TV for students: a new, edgy television network for students is airing across campuses worldwide.

Students all over the U.S., Canada, and the U.K. are tuning into a new television network designed by and for them. The University Network (www.theuniversitynetwork.net), or TUN as it is known, provides a variety of shows with topics ranging from art and politics to drama and comedy. "Programming for the college-age population has realty been dummied down," says Shane Walker, founder of TUN. "We think students will find our network much more intelligent and stimulating."

The network features the first national collegiate news show as well as reality TV programs. One will follow the lives of four different students at the Julliard School of Music; another will show the first student films created by celebrity directors such as Ridley Scott. TUN is being very selective about its programming, which is free to all colleges and universities. "We've already had some really great pitches. There are a tot of very talented student artists out there that haven't gotten the exposure they deserve," Walker says.

More than 100 schools, including Brigham Young University (UT) and Ball State University (IN), are allowing student access to this network.