Yale University

A Yale University undergraduate education is achieved at the Yale College for all baccalaureate students. Regardless of the desired area of study, students take part in an interdisciplinary core curriculum focused on the arts, sciences and writing. With 80 majors and 2,000 courses offered, students can individualize their learning experience to match their interests, inquiries, and future plans.

In addition to traditional classroom learning, Yale offers many opportunities for experiential learning. Students can conduct research alongside faculty members, participate in internships, or study abroad at one of the many international locations affiliated with Yale University. The Center for International and Professional Experience offers guidance and funding for hands-on learning opportunities offered through Yale.

History of Yale University

Yale University was first founded as the Collegiate School in 1701 as a means to educate young men in the arts and sciences while also providing them with the skills for public employment. Fifteen years later, the college was moved from Saybrook to New Haven, Connecticut. In 1718, the school was renamed Yale College in honor of Elihu Yale, a merchant who donated to the institution. Yale gave the college 417 books, the proceeds from nine bales of goods, and a portrait of King George I.

The university was home to many firsts in the 18th century. In 1738, the Berkeley Scholarships for graduate students were created by the Reverend George Berkeley. These were the first scholarships given in the country. Connecticut Hall was constructed on campus in 1750, and is not only the oldest building in the city of New Haven, but a National Historic Landmark as well. In 1757, the first church located within a college was built at Yale University. The Pierpont House, built in 1767 and used as the Undergraduate Admissions office until 1995, is the oldest surviving house in the city of New Haven. In 1792, the brick row campus plan developed by John Trumbull and James Hillhouse, made Yale the first planned campus in the country.

Yale University was also a crucial institution during several points in history. Many of the leaders involved in the Continental Congress and the signing of the Declaration of Independence were Yale graduates. The Yale School of Medicine introduced the concept of giving medical students guidance and stimulation, which is carried on in programs in the current day. The Yale Law School, established in 1824, is responsible for many movements in American Law, including international human rights and the law and economics movement.

Campus Life

The community at Yale University is talented, diverse, and supportive, and the student organizations reflect this. There are hundreds of clubs and groups on campus, each with a unique offering to appeal to a wide variety of student interests. With comedy groups, culinary clubs and even organizations devoted to business and entrepreneurship, students can find kindred spirits to share and engage their talents and interests with.

The university is also committed to keeping students healthy and safe. Health and Wellness is an important initiative at the college that provides mental health services, assistance with spiritual health regardless of faith, and medical health services. Students have access to a free nine-story gym and exercise equipment, as well as a variety of club sports and recreation programs. The Yale-New Haven hospital is one of the nation’s best hospitals, and one of the largest medical centers in the world.

Financial Aid for Yale Students

Yale is committed to admitting all qualified applicants regardless of financial need, and supports students in several ways. A Yale scholarship is a grant awarded to recipients based purely on their demonstrated financial need. Work Study and Student Employment provide students with financial assistance for eight to twelve hours of work per week on campus. The package and the types of aid offered are based on the family’s demonstrated need.