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Yale University

Private Ivy League research university

Yale University, founded in 1701, is one of the oldest higher education institutions in the U.S. It offers undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across fourteen schools. With a significant endowment, extensive library holdings, and a prestigious faculty, Yale has produced numerous Nobel laureates, U.S. presidents, and other influential figures.

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Columbia University Harvard University Princeton University Stanford University Dartmouth College Cornell University Brown University University of Oxford Duke University University of California

Timeline

Vision for a Connecticut College

After the death of Reverend John Davenport in 1670, his successor, Reverend James Pierpont, continued the vision for a college in Connecticut. Pierpont, along with other clerical colleagues, worked towards securing the charter for the Collegiate School.

Founding of Yale College

In 1700, a group of ten ministers led by the Reverend James Pierpont of New Haven met in Branford to establish a college, with each minister donating books for its founding.

Founding of Yale University

Yale University was founded as the Collegiate School on October 9, 1701. It is the third-oldest higher-education institution in the United States, following Harvard University and the College of William and Mary.

Relocation of Yale University to New Haven

In 1716, the Collegiate School trustees decided to move the institution to New Haven, fulfilling the vision of Reverend John Davenport, one of the founders of New Haven. This relocation marked a significant moment in the history of Yale University.

Yale College renamed in honor of Elihu Yale

In 1718, Yale College was renamed to Yale University in honor of Elihu Yale, a wealthy British merchant and philanthropist who made significant donations to the school.

Construction of Connecticut Hall at Yale

Construction began on Connecticut Hall in 1750, which is now the oldest building in New Haven and a National Historic Landmark.

Nathan Hale's Death

Nathan Hale, a Yale graduate from the Class of 1773, died in service as America's first spy.

Ezra Stiles Spies British Fleet

On July 4, 1779, Yale President Ezra Stiles first spotted the British fleet approaching New Haven harbor through his telescope from the steeple of the college chapel.

John Trumbull Develops Brick Row Campus Plan

In 1792, John Trumbull, an artist and former aide-de-camp to General Washington, collaborated with James Hillhouse to develop the Brick Row campus plan at Yale. This plan made Yale the first college in America to have a planned campus layout, which was well received in New Haven, the first planned city in America.

Benjamin Silliman, Sr. Teaches First Modern Science Course in the United States

Benjamin Silliman, Sr., considered the father of modern scientific education in America, teaches the first modern science course (chemistry) in the United States at Yale University.

Yale School of Medicine Established

The Yale School of Medicine was founded in 1810, marking the beginning of Yale University's expansion into various academic disciplines.

Yale School of Medicine Founded

Yale School of Medicine is founded as the “Medical Institution of Yale College.” The Yale System of Medical Education, emphasizing guidance and stimulation for students, was introduced in 1931.

Yale Divinity School Founded

Yale Divinity School is founded as the “Theological Department.” Religious studies have been integral to Yale education since its inception, with the first divinity professorship established in 1746.

Yale Law School founded

Yale Law School is established and has become known as one of the top law schools in the United States, producing exceptional legal professionals and contributing to significant legal movements.

First Chinese Citizen Earns Degree at Yale

In 1850, the first Chinese citizen to earn a degree at a Western college or university came to Yale, contributing to the university's diverse student body.

Opening of Yale School of the Fine Arts

The Yale School of the Fine Arts, the first collegiate art school in the United States and Yale's first coeducational school, opened in 1869.

James Jackson Jarves' Collection of Italian Primitives

Mr. James Jackson Jarves deposited 119 paintings from his collection of Italian primitives at the School of the Fine Arts, which were purchased by the University on November 9, 1871.

Harvard-Yale Football Rivalry Begins

The Harvard-Yale football rivalry commenced in 1875, marking the start of a long-standing tradition in American collegiate sports.

Walter Camp develops modern football

Walter Camp, a Yale undergraduate, transforms the rough game of rugby into the modern game of football. He introduces key elements such as the down system, the eleven-man team, and the 100-yard field, establishing himself as the father of American football.

Yale University becomes a university

In 1887, Yale University organized as a university, expanding into graduate and professional instruction, further solidifying its position as a leading educational institution.

Establishment of Alumni University Fund at Yale University

In response to a widespread sentiment among Yale graduates, the Corporation voted to establish a fund known as the Alumni University Fund to increase the resources of the University.

First Conferment of Bachelor of Fine Arts at Yale University

The degree of Bachelor of Fine Arts was conferred for the first time at Yale University.

Establishment of the School of Music at Yale University

The Corporation of Yale University decided to elevate the Department of Music to a separate school, known as the School of Music. The first Bachelor of Music degree was awarded on June 27.

Inauguration of Professor Arthur Twining Hadley as non-clerical President

Professor Arthur Twining Hadley was inaugurated as the first non-clerical President of Yale University. His presidency marked a significant shift in leadership at the institution.

Establishment of Yale's Forestry School

Yale's Forestry School, now known as the School of the Environment, was established in 1900. It is the oldest forestry school in the country and the only one at an Ivy League institution. The funding to start the school was donated by Gifford Pinchot, often called the 'Father of the U.S. Forest Service,' and his parents.

Completion of the Yale Bowl

The Yale Bowl, completed in 1914, was the largest stadium built since the Roman Colosseum and attracted a record 80,000 fans for the Yale-Harvard game in 1920.

Formation of the First Yale Unit

The First Yale Unit, established in 1916, was the first naval air reserve unit and the first aerial coastal patrol unit. Lt. David Ingalls, a member of this unit, became the first naval aviator to achieve ace status while flying with the Royal Air Force.

Completion of Memorial Quadrangle and Harkness Tower

The Memorial Quadrangle, later named Branford and Saybrook Colleges, was completed in 1921. Harkness Tower, which stood as the world's tallest freestanding tower for many years, was a prominent landmark in the city.

Completion of Sterling Memorial Library

In 1930, Sterling Memorial Library, designed by architect James Gamble Rogers, was finished. The library features architectural elements reminiscent of European cathedrals and is renowned for its intricate carvings, ironwork, and lead glass windows depicting the history of books and writing.

Completion of Payne Whitney Gymnasium

In 1932, Payne Whitney Gymnasium, one of the largest indoor athletic facilities globally, was finalized. The gymnasium serves as a significant sports venue within Yale University.

Opening of first seven residential colleges

The first seven residential colleges at Yale were inaugurated in 1933, introducing a unique system for student living and learning inspired by the English model of Oxford and Cambridge. This system expanded to twelve colleges by 1963.

Foundation of Yale School of Drama

In 1955, the Yale School of Drama was established, offering M.F.A. and D.F.A. degrees. It also operates the renowned Yale Repertory Theatre, which has received Tony Awards.

Opening of Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library

The Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library was inaugurated in 1963, dedicated to Yale's extensive collections of rare books and manuscripts. Designed by Gordon Bunshaft, the library is a distinctive architectural marvel with a six-story freestanding book tower.

Yale and the Black Panther Trials

In 1968, Yale, along with other educational institutions, started admitting African American students. This period also saw the famed Black Panther Trials taking place at Yale, amidst the backdrop of urban unrest and segregation in America.

Yale College admits women

In 1969, Yale College admitted women for the first time, marking a significant milestone in the history of the institution. Prior to this, women had been attending other schools at Yale since 1869.

May Day 1970 Protest on New Haven Green

Fifteen thousand young, white, mostly middle class students gathered on the New Haven Green to protest against the criminal justice system in America following Seale's arrest. The event was documented through photography.

The Life and Work of Sylvia Ardyn Boone

Sylvia Ardyn Boone was an eminent scholar of African and women's art and the first black woman granted tenure at Yale. Her contributions to academia and the recognition of Black women's achievements are significant.

Founding of Yale School of Management

In 1976, the Yale School of Management was established with a focus on preparing future leaders for various sectors. The school offers an MBA program and joint degrees with other Yale professional schools.

Opening of Yale Center for British Art

The Yale Center for British Art, housing an extensive collection of British art, was opened in 1977. It was made possible by the philanthropy of Yale alumnus Paul Mellon.

Establishment of Yale-NUS College

The National University of Singapore (NUS) and Yale University announce the establishment of Yale-NUS College, providing a new model of liberal arts education for Asia.

Launch of Jackson School of Global Affairs

The Jackson Institute at Yale University was transformed into the Jackson School of Global Affairs in 2022. It is the first professional school created at Yale since 1976 and focuses on addressing global challenges like climate change, war and peace, ethnic conflict, and inequality.

End of the Timeline
Yale University

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