How Do Hostile Mobs Spawn in Minecraft?
Yes, the light level makes a difference. In fact, it's probably the single most important factor for hostile mob spawning.
Hostile mobs won't spawn in any area that is above light level 7. Torches produce a light level of 14, and that light level decreases by one for every block (along an axis) out. Therefore, any place that is more than 7 blocks away from a torch could spawn a hostile mob. There are other methods of discouraging hostile mobs from spawning, but keeping a well lit area is key.
Also, try filling your university with the following blocks:
- Half-blocks. These are not very convenient, but can work for flooring.
- Glass. No mob can spawn on glass.
- Liquids. If you have any empty space you cannot enter, wall it up and fill it up with water.
But lighting the areas is probably a better solution. If you add on to the few lights in the village, and light up every little dark space, you can drastically reduce the odds of a monster spawning. You can never be completely sure, however. Sometimes creepers spawn in semi-lit areas and catch you by surprise.