Apple have just formally announced iTunesU, a collection of course materials and campus-life oriented podcasts from some of America’s top Colleges and Universities. This is actually a new section of their iTunes store, as well as the name for their partnership with these universities. Participating schools include MIT, Bowdoin, Arizona State, and the University of Maryland. In fact, Apple claims that over 250 schools are sharing content through the iTunes store now.

“iTunes U makes it easy for anyone to access amazing educational material from many of the country’s most respected colleges and universities,” said Eddy Cue, Apple’s vice president of iTunes. “Education is a lifelong pursuit and we’re pleased to give everyone the ability to download lectures, speeches and other academic content for free.”

Created in collaboration with colleges and universities, iTunes U makes it easier than ever to extend learning, explore interests, learn more about a school and stay connected with an alma mater. Content from iTunes can be loaded onto an iPod.

Read the official Apple Press release here.