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.

Building resilience together

Article by Amy Cherry | November 14, 2025

UD experts urge authentic connection in a digitally distracted world
Creating third spaces on college campuses

Article by Meghan Keating | November 14, 2025

Fall 2025 marks the fifth installment of national civil discourse event hosted for college students
AI meets real intelligence at UD hackathon

Article by Tracey Bryant | November 13, 2025

UD students and industry leaders team up to solve fintech challenges

Stronger by design

Article by College of Engineering | November 13, 2025

UD awarded NSF grant to build next-generation secure computer chips
The county agent

Article by Michele Walfred | November 10, 2025

UD Cooperative Extension’s embrace of tradition and innovation extends across the state of Delaware
In Memoriam: Jack R. Vinson

Article by UDaily Staff | November 11, 2025

Pioneering UD mechanical engineer remembered for shaping the field of composite materials

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.