University of Delaware

The University of Delaware, affectionately known as UD or UDel, stands as a distinguished privately governed, state-assisted land-grant research university with a rich history dating back to 1743. Located primarily in Newark, Delaware, with several satellite campuses, UD offers a vibrant academic environment classified among "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity." This unique structure allows it to combine the agility of a private institution with the public mission of a land-grant university, fostering extensive research, innovation, and community engagement.

UD's roots trace back to Presbyterian minister Francis Alison's "Free School" in Pennsylvania, moving to Newark and eventually chartered as the Academy of Newark. Over the centuries, it evolved through various names like Newark College and Delaware College before becoming the University of Delaware in 1921. Today, UD offers an impressive breadth of academic opportunities, from associate to doctoral programs across its ten colleges and schools. Prospective students can explore over 160 bachelor's, 130 master's, and 60 doctoral programs, including specialized fields like Art Conservation within the College of Arts and Sciences, and cutting-edge research in the highly-ranked College of Engineering.

As an R1 institution, UD is a hub of discovery, investing significantly in research and development. Students benefit from access to state-of-the-art facilities, like the 350-acre outdoor classroom in the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, or specialized labs within the College of Earth, Ocean and Environment. Beyond academics, life at UD is defined by the spirited "Fightin' Blue Hens," the university's NCAA Division I sports teams, fostering a strong sense of community and tradition. With over 24,000 students, UD provides a diverse and dynamic campus experience, preparing graduates to be leaders and innovators in their chosen fields.