A Look at 10 of the Oldest U.S. Colleges
The United States is home to some of the world’s most well-known and prestigious colleges and universities. Many of these institutions have been around for centuries, playing key roles in shaping the country’s education system. Here’s a look at ten of the oldest U.S. colleges, including a bit of their history, what they offer today, and how you can explore their programs.
1. Harvard University (1636)
Located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Harvard University is the oldest college in the United States, founded in 1636. Originally established to train clergy, Harvard has grown into one of the most prestigious universities in the world. It offers a wide range of programs in fields like law, business, medicine, engineering, and the humanities. Harvard’s website is www.harvard.edu, where you can learn about its numerous undergraduate and graduate programs, as well as research opportunities.
Popular Courses:
- Law (Harvard Law School)
- Business (Harvard Business School)
- Medicine (Harvard Medical School)
2. College of William & Mary (1693)
Founded in Williamsburg, Virginia, the College of William & Mary is the second-oldest U.S. college, established in 1693. It’s known for its strong liberal arts programs and commitment to public service. William & Mary is home to a beautiful, historic campus and offers everything from undergraduate liberal arts degrees to graduate programs in law, business, and education. You can explore their programs at www.wm.edu.
Popular Courses:
- Law (William & Mary Law School)
- Business (Mason School of Business)
- History and Government
3. Yale University (1701)
Yale University in New Haven, Connecticut, was founded in 1701. It is known for producing some of the world’s top scholars, including several U.S. presidents and Nobel laureates. Yale offers an extensive range of academic programs, particularly in law, politics, and the arts. You can learn more about Yale’s offerings at www.yale.edu.
Popular Courses:
- Law (Yale Law School)
- Political Science
- Environmental Studies
4. Princeton University (1746)
Located in Princeton, New Jersey, Princeton University was founded in 1746 as the College of New Jersey. Known for its strong undergraduate programs and world-class faculty, Princeton is a top choice for students seeking education in the humanities, natural sciences, and engineering. Their official website is www.princeton.edu.
Popular Courses:
- Engineering
- Humanities and Social Sciences
- Public Policy
5. University of Pennsylvania (1740)
Founded by Benjamin Franklin in Philadelphia, the University of Pennsylvania (often called Penn) was established in 1740. Penn offers a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs in areas like business, medicine, and the arts. It’s also known for its strong commitment to research and innovation. You can check out Penn’s academic offerings at www.upenn.edu.
Popular Courses:
- Business (Wharton School)
- Medicine (Perelman School of Medicine)
- Computer Science
6. Columbia University (1754)
Columbia University, located in the heart of New York City, was founded in 1754. It’s one of the top Ivy League schools, known for its strong programs in law, business, journalism, and the arts. Columbia’s location in NYC offers students unique opportunities to connect with industries and research centers. Learn more at www.columbia.edu.
Popular Courses:
- Journalism (Columbia Journalism School)
- Law (Columbia Law School)
- Business (Columbia Business School)
7. Brown University (1764)
Located in Providence, Rhode Island, Brown University was founded in 1764 and is known for its unique Open Curriculum, allowing students to shape their own education. Brown is a leader in liberal arts education and offers programs in a variety of disciplines, including humanities, science, and engineering. For more details, visit www.brown.edu.
Popular Courses:
- Computer Science
- Anthropology
- Engineering
8. Dartmouth College (1769)
Dartmouth College in Hanover, New Hampshire, was founded in 1769 and has a rich history of preparing students for leadership roles in business, government, and the sciences. The college is known for its focus on undergraduate education and offers an array of degree programs. Explore Dartmouth’s offerings at www.dartmouth.edu.
Popular Courses:
- Business (Tuck School of Business)
- Government
- Economics
9. Rutgers University (1766)
Rutgers University in New Brunswick, New Jersey, was founded in 1766 as Queen’s College. Today, Rutgers is one of the largest public universities in the country, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. It’s well-regarded for its research in areas like public health, engineering, and the sciences. Visit www.rutgers.edu for more information.
Popular Courses:
- Public Health
- Engineering
- Psychology
10. The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (1789)
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill was founded in 1789, making it the first public university in the U.S. to admit students and the first to graduate them. Today, UNC is a top public research university, known for its excellent programs in business, law, medicine, and the arts. Check out their academic offerings at www.unc.edu.
Popular Courses:
- Business (Kenan-Flagler Business School)
- Law (UNC School of Law)
- Journalism
Conclusion
These ten schools represent some of the oldest and most respected institutions of higher learning in the United States. They each have rich histories, strong academic programs, and enduring legacies. Whether you’re interested in law, business, engineering, or the humanities, these universities continue to offer top-notch education that shapes the future of their students and society. Explore their websites to learn more about courses, admissions, and campus life—each offers a unique opportunity for students looking to build their futures at some of the nation’s oldest and most prestigious colleges.