About UD

OUR STORY

The University of Delaware is committed to excellence in undergraduate and graduate education, research and service.

From its roots as a private academy in 1743, the institution today is a research-intensive, technologically advanced university with global impact. Come join us.

Our alumni tell our story of achievement -- from the first class that included three signers of the Declaration of Independence and a signer of the Constitution to a Nobel Prize-winning scientist, a Tony Award-winning choreographer and the president of the United States.

Our distinguished faculty includes internationally known authors, scientists and artists. State-of-the-art facilities support UD’s academic, research and service activities.

Campus life is welcoming -- enriched by distinguished guest speakers, NCAA Division I intercollegiate athletics, 300-plus engaged student organizations, concerts and other arts and cultural activities.

In addition to our vibrant main campus in Newark, UD has locations across the state -- in Wilmington, Dover, Georgetown and Lewes.

A thriving study-abroad program and expanding international partnerships further enhance our students’ education as global citizens.

For the Record, Dec. 19, 2025

Article by UDaily staff | December 19, 2025

University of Delaware community reports new appointments, recordings, presentations, publications, honors and memorials
In Memoriam: Jerome R. Lewis

Article by UDaily staff | December 19, 2025

For over 50 years, Jerome Lewis helped build UD’s nationally recognized public affairs programs in the Biden School and advanced public service across Delaware
50 years of innovation in composites

Article by Hillary Hoffman | December 19, 2025

UD’s Center for Composite Materials reflects on a legacy of innovation and charts a course for the next half-century

Exploring cancer research

Article by Amy Cherry | December 18, 2025

Medical and molecular sciences students gain hands-on experience through Fox Chase fellowships
From Delaware to New Zealand — and back again

Article by Jamie Washington | December 17, 2025

Lewes native Leah Marsh calls Auckland home, a full-circle story as the World Scholars Program celebrates its 10th anniversary
Winter break schedules

Article by UDaily Staff | December 17, 2025

As the UD semester ends, the days and hours of operations shift for student health, library, bookstore, transportation and more

One of the oldest universities in the United States,
the University of Delaware traces its roots to 1743.

The school’s first name was Newark College,
later becoming Delaware College.

In 1921, it was officially named
the University of Delaware.

In 2017, we continue to grow - establishing ourselves as a top
institution that is leaving its mark in
Delaware and across the globe.

More UD History

Welcome to Blue Hen Country!

From intercollegiate athletics to club sports, UD's school spirit permeates throughout campus, boosted by loyal fans who include students, faculty and staff, alumni, parents and friends.

Athletics

YoUDee the mascot

UD Marching Band

Cockpit Cheering Section

Cheerleaders

Dance Team

Mission Statement
Statement of Responsibility

Mission Statement

The University of Delaware exists to cultivate learning, develop knowledge, and foster the free exchange of ideas. State-assisted yet privately governed, the University has a strong tradition of distinguished scholarship, which is manifested in its research and creative activities, teaching, and service, in line with its commitment to increasing and disseminating scientific, humanistic, artistic, and social knowledge for the benefit of the larger society. Founded in 1743 and chartered by the state in 1833, the University of Delaware today is a land-grant, sea-grant, and space-grant university.

The University of Delaware is a major research university with extensive graduate programs that is also dedicated to outstanding undergraduate and professional education. UD faculty are committed to the intellectual, cultural, and ethical development of students as citizens, scholars and professionals. UD graduates are prepared to contribute to a global and diverse society that requires leaders with creativity, integrity and a dedication to service.

The University of Delaware promotes an environment in which all people are inspired to learn, and encourages intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, free inquiry, and respect for the views and values of an increasingly diverse population.

An institution engaged in addressing the critical needs of the state, nation, and global community, the University of Delaware carries out its mission with the support of alumni who span the globe and in partnership with public, private, and nonprofit institutions in Delaware and beyond.

Statement of Responsibility

The University of Delaware community values both personal and academic freedom. All members of the campus community have the personal responsibility to promote an atmosphere of civility in which the free exchange of ideas and opinions can flourish. We do so by learning from individual and collective differences and by respecting every human being.