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Yale University

New Haven, CT

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

Lux et veritas|italics=yes("Light and truth")

1701
Founded
Private research university
Type
15,490
Total Students
6,740
Undergrad
8,750
Graduate
$44.1B
Endowment
(2025)
Doctoral Universities
Classification
President: Maurie McInnis

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Yale University

Cultivating leaders and advancing knowledge since 1701, a beacon of 'Light and Truth'.

Nestled in the vibrant city of New Haven, Connecticut, Yale University stands as a prestigious private Ivy League research institution, embodying its motto "Lux et veritas" – Light and truth. With a rich history spanning over three centuries, Yale has consistently been at the forefront of education, research, and leadership development, attracting ambitious students and world-class faculty from across the globe.

Founded in 1701 as the Collegiate School, Yale holds the distinguished title of the third-oldest institution of higher education in the United States, predating the American Revolution. Its curriculum evolved from a focus on theology to embrace a broad range of humanities and sciences. A pivotal moment came in 1861 when Yale awarded the nation's first PhD, solidifying its commitment to advanced scholarship and research, leading to its organization as a full university in 1887.

Today, Yale comprises fifteen constituent schools, including its renowned undergraduate college, the Yale Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, and Yale Law School, each dedicated to academic excellence. The university boasts one of the world's largest academic libraries, housing over 15 million volumes, and a formidable $44.1 billion endowment that fuels its extensive programs and research initiatives. Students immerse themselves in a dynamic campus life, supporting the Yale Bulldogs in NCAA Division I athletics while benefiting from a strong tradition of community engagement and global partnerships.

Yale's legacy is further exemplified by its extraordinary alumni network, which includes five U.S. Presidents, 72 Nobel laureates, countless leaders in government, business, and the arts, and numerous Rhodes and Marshall Scholars. Under the leadership of President Maurie McInnis, Yale continues to champion a holistic educational experience, fostering critical thinking, innovation, and a profound commitment to making a positive impact on the world.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1701, it is the third-oldest institution of higher education in the U.S. and one of nine colonial colleges.
  • Boasts a formidable $44.1 billion endowment, ranking second among private universities in the nation.
  • Awarded the first Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree in the United States in 1861.
  • Home to the Yale University Library, holding over 15 million volumes, making it the third-largest academic library in the U.S.
  • Alumni include 5 U.S. Presidents, 72 Nobel laureates, 10 Founding Fathers, and 19 U.S. Supreme Court justices.
  • Students compete as the Yale Bulldogs in NCAA Division I as part of the Ivy League.
  • Renowned for its global engagement, including the Yale West Campus dedicated to biotechnology and life sciences research.

Timeline

1701
Founded as the Collegiate School by Congregationalist clergy in Connecticut.
1716
The Collegiate School moved to its permanent home in New Haven.
1718
Renamed Yale College, honoring benefactor Elihu Yale.
1861
Awarded the first Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree in the United States.
1887
Officially organized and renamed Yale University.
1920
Milton Winternitz became Dean of the Yale School of Medicine, establishing the "Yale System" of teaching.
2007
Established Yale West Campus, a 137-acre site focused on biotechnology and life sciences research.
2013
Yale-NUS College opened in Singapore as a joint liberal arts effort with the National University of Singapore.
2017
Calhoun College was renamed Hopper College, after computer science pioneer Grace Hopper.
🏛️
325 Years
of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

4 notable schools within Yale University

⚖️

Yale Law School

One of the world's most prestigious law schools, known for its innovative curriculum and impact on legal scholarship and public service.

🎭

Yale Graduate School of Arts and Sciences

Offers a wide array of doctoral and master's programs across the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences.

🏥

Yale School of Medicine

A leading medical institution known for its "Yale System" of medical education, emphasizing independent research and fewer exams, and its contributions to scientific medicine.

💉

Yale School of Nursing

Established as a graduate-level nursing school, known for its pioneering work and commitment to educating leaders in nursing practice and research.

Leadership

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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