The 15 Oldest Colleges in the US for 2026

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

No doubt these U.S. colleges and universities are old. Even older than the country. A few of them were founded in the 17th century, while most were established a century hence. While Ivy League institutions are commonly regarded among the oldest college in US, there are several non-Ivy institutions that make it to the list of the oldest colleges in the U.S.

The general consensus is old universities enjoy a reputation of heritage and accomplishments. And it isn’t stretching one’s imagination. Many on our list do have their bragging points. In fact, Harvard University, which tops the list, needs no introduction. So do Yale, Princeton and Columbia.

In a way, this list of the oldest higher learning institutions in the U.S. is also a good reference for a wide range of reputable degrees. Be it a niche career on geography or the broad liberal arts career, whatever discipline you want to pursue is likely covered by these institutions.

That said, this article will take a closer look at the oldest colleges in the US, focusing not only on each one’s year of establishment but also on their location and historical background. Moreover, the discussion will include some of the notable graduates from each listed college. With this, students who have yet to select a college may get to know each institution better.

The Competition Among College Institutions

Global university rankings have paved the way for open competition between nations and the higher education institutions (HEIs) themselves, which serve as global actors in their own right (Marginson & van der Wende, 2007). Furthermore, the rising cost of higher education also promotes competition, as each institution is inclined to prove how their programs make for good investments for the future. Unfortunately, colleges and universities that are not able to keep up with the race have been closing. According to the U.S. Department of Education, the number of higher education institutions in the country dropped to its lowest in 2018 since 1998 (VOA Student Union, 2019).

Many people fall under the impression that college is no longer important nowadays. This is one of the reasons why schools compete for the attention of students who still believe in the power of higher education.

Oldest Universities in the U.S. With High Global Rankings

Source: QS Top Universities

Attracting students and maintaining high-performance rankings are just two of the challenges that higher education institutions face. Not meeting stringent standards and enrollment goals may make it difficult for a school to stay in business. This goes to show that institutions that remain operational may have been doing things right.

With this in mind, it’s no longer surprising why many high school graduates are aiming to get into some of the oldest colleges in the US. The fact that these oldest colleges in US endured centuries while others have closed down can already say enough about their reputation and quality of education. Learn more about their rich histories below.

Popular Business Degrees Offered by the Oldest Colleges

Business Administration Degree

A business administration degree is a program that provides a broad education in business principles, management, and leadership. Individuals pursuing this degree often gain a well-rounded understanding of how businesses operate and develop skills that are applicable across different industries. The principles of business management have been crucial for centuries, which makes it a typical offering among oldest colleges. As education evolved, colleges recognized the importance of providing students with a foundational understanding of business practices. This degree’s adaptability has made it a staple in many educational institutions, including the oldest ones.

Management Degree

A management degree typically focuses on developing skills in organizational leadership, decision-making, strategic planning, and interpersonal communication. It is designed to prepare individuals for roles in management and leadership. Management degrees have become standard offerings in many colleges, including the oldest ones, due to the enduring relevance and importance of effective management practices. The ability to lead and manage people has been a critical aspect of organizational success throughout history. The consistent demand for skilled managers across diverse industries has contributed to the longstanding presence of management degrees in the curricula of many colleges, including those with a rich history dating back centuries.

Human Resources Degree

A human resources (HR) degree focuses on the study of managing personnel within organizations. The goal is to prepare individuals for roles in HR management and administration. The enduring importance of effective human resources management has made HR degrees standard offerings in many colleges, as they aim to equip individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in this critical aspect of organizational functioning. The prevalence of human resources degrees in the programs offered by the oldest colleges can be attributed to the recognition of the crucial role that people management plays in the success of organizations.

Marketing Degree

A marketing degree involves the study of various aspects of marketing, including market research, consumer behavior, advertising, public relations, and strategic planning. The objective is to prepare individuals for roles in creating, promoting, and selling products or services. The ubiquity of marketing degrees in many university offerings, including the oldest, can be linked to the critical role marketing plays in the success of corporations and organizations. Institutions understand the necessity of educating students with the information and abilities needed to navigate the dynamic and competitive marketing industry. Because of this, marketing has become a common and necessary part of the curriculum in many colleges, especially those with an extensive tradition in higher education.

Business Administration Degree

Business Administration is a cornerstone among traditional degree programs in some of the oldest colleges in the United States. Rooted in a rich history of academic excellence, this program blends foundational business principles with contemporary management strategies. Students engage in a comprehensive curriculum encompassing finance, marketing, and organizational behavior, preparing them for leadership roles in diverse industries. Renowned for its enduring relevance, Business Administration continues to be a sought-after degree, shaping tomorrow’s business leaders in venerable institutions.

Public Administration Degree

A public administration degree focuses on the management and operations of government and non-profit organizations. Students of this program will be prepared for employment in public service, government administration, and non-profit management. Throughout history, societies have recognized the importance of having people with the expertise and abilities to manage public resources, enact policies, and lead public institutions. The continued relevance of good government and public service can be ascribed to the presence of public administration degrees in the curricula of many universities, including the oldest. Because governments and non-profit organizations play such an important role in developing and servicing communities, there is always a need for people who understand public administration principles.

What unique traditions are associated with the oldest colleges in the U.S.?

Many of the oldest colleges in the U.S. are steeped in tradition, with rituals and customs that have evolved over centuries, offering students a sense of belonging and connection to the past.

Harvard's "Housing Day": Each year, first-year students learn their upperclassman house assignments in a lively ceremony involving costumes, chants, and house spirit.
Yale's "The Game": The annual football game between Yale and Harvard, first played in 1875, is one of the oldest and most famous rivalries in college sports.
Princeton's "P-rade": During Princeton reunions, alumni parade through campus in a lively and colorful event showcasing the university’s rich history and school spirit.
College of William & Mary's "Yule Log Ceremony": This holiday tradition involves students throwing ceremonial sprigs of holly into a bonfire to signify good luck for the coming year.
Dartmouth's "Winter Carnival": Dating back to 1911, Dartmouth’s Winter Carnival celebrates the season with snow sculptures, athletic events, and outdoor activities.

1. Harvard University

Year founded: 1636

Founder: Great and General Court of the Massachusetts Bay Colony

Location: Boston, Massachusetts, U.S.

Harvard University is among the eight schools in the Ivy League, an American collegiate athletic conference comprised of elite colleges known for their academic excellence and selectivity in admissions. Originally called New College, it is the oldest college in America. It got its current name from the first benefactor, John Harvard, who bequeathed his entire library and half of his estate to the school upon his death. Although the school was established under church sponsorship, it was never formally affiliated with any religious body. Over the next two centuries since its establishment, it was gradually liberated from both church and government control.

In 1865, the alumni first elected the governing board members. During his tenure as Harvard’s president from 1869 to 1909, Charles W. Eliot successfully established the university’s national influence (Brittanica, 2020).

Harvard College, Harvard’s undergraduate school, takes about a third of the institution’s total student body. The school’s core teaching staff is composed of the faculty of arts and sciences. Meanwhile, the institution’s professional schools, which have acquired world prestige unlike any other (Keller & Keller, 2001), consist of the schools of law, business, medicine, education, divinity, design, government, dental medicine, and public health.

As the oldest university in US, its quality, wealth, and overall prestige can easily shield it from any conceivable challenges (Keller & Keller, 2001). After all, its alumni and faculty have long been closely associated with many aspects of American political and intellectual development.

Notable Graduates

Barack Obama Graduated magna cum laude in 1991 with a Juris Doctor degree; 44th President of the United States.
Neil DeGrasse Tyson Graduated in 1980 with a degree in physics; considered as the most famous astrophysicist in the world.
Jill Stein Graduated magna cum laude in 1973 with degrees in anthropology, sociology, and psychology; physician, activist, and politician who served as the Green Party’s nominee for the U.S. presidency in 2012 and 2016.
Al Gore Graduated cum laude in 1969; Former Vice President of the United States and known for environmental activism.
Steve Ballmer Graduated in 1977 with a degree in economics and applied mathematics; former CEO of Microsoft.

QS Ranking (2020): #3 (Global), #1 (U.S.)

THE Ranking (2020): #7 (Global), #1 (U.S.)

Average tuition fee (2020): $49,653

2. Yale University

Year founded: 1701

Founder: Elihu Yale

Location: New Haven, Connecticut, U.S.

Another Ivy League school, Yale University is a private institution originally chartered by the colonial legislature of Connecticut in Killingworth and other locations and was named Collegiate School. It is one of the oldest universities in US. It was moved to New Haven in 1716 and renamed as Yale College in honor of its wealthy benefactor, Elihu Yale.

Yale’s initial curriculum highlighted classical studies. The school was originally founded to train ministers in sacred languages and theology, but it eventually included humanities and sciences in its curriculum in 1777. Yale was the first university to award a PhD in the United States.

In a new reading of The Yale Report of 1828, it was ascertained that the classical curriculum had to be reinvented in the 19th century, and Yale was proud to be at the forefront of this endeavor (Pak, 2008).

Notable graduates

Samuel Morse Graduated 1810; invented the single-wire telegraph and co-invented the Morse Code.
George H.W. Bush Graduated 1948; 41st President of the United States.
Sarah Hughes Graduated 2009; popular Olympic figure skater.
Paul Krugman Graduated 1974; an established economist and Nobel Prize Winner.
Fareed Zakaria Graduated in 1986; CNN news anchor and writer for The Washington Post.

QS Ranking (2020): #17 (Global), #6 (U.S.)

THE Ranking (2020): #8 (Global), #3 (U.S.)

Average tuition fee (2020): $55,500

3. University of Pennsylvania

Year founded: 1740

Founder: Benjamin Franklin

Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US

Also an Ivy League school and commonly referred to as Penn or UPenn, the University of Pennsylvania is the oldest school in America to offer both undergraduate and postgraduate programs. It was first called the Academy of Philadelphia before the College of Philadelphia was chartered in 1755. The name University of the State of Pennsylvania was adopted from 1751 until settling with the final name, University of Pennsylvania, in 1755. The University of Pennsylvania is also one of the 100 oldest colleges in America to take a multidisciplinary approach to teaching and admit female students. It is also the first institution to have a medical school. UPenn became fully co-educational in 1974 when the College of Liberal Arts for Women was formally merged with the School of Arts and Sciences.

Notable graduates

Elon Musk Graduated in 1997 with a degree in economics and physics; founder and chief designer of SpaceX and CEO of Tesla, Inc.
Chief Justice William J. Brennan Jr. Graduated cum laude in 1928 with a degree in economics; 7th longest-serving justice in U.S. Supreme Court history.
Tory Burch Graduated in 1988; renowned fashion designer, entrepreneur, and philanthropist.
Jennifer Egan Graduated in 1985; novelist and short story writer who was honored at UPenn’s 78th Alumni Award of Merit Gala.

QS Ranking (2020): #16 (Global), #8 (U.S.)

THE Ranking (2020): #11 (Global), #4 (U.S.)

Average tuition fee (2020): $57,770

4. College of William and Mary

Year founded: 1693

Founder: James Blair

Location: Williamsburg, Virginia, U.S.

Named for the British co-monarchs King William III and Queen Mary II, the College of William and Mary was the oldest university in USA to introduce an honor code of conduct for students. It is also the oldest college in the American South.

As the second oldest college in the US, it has a remarkable staying power, primarily due to its ability to address societal changes. The most recent is its response to the demand for colleges to achieve comprehensive internationalization (Eddy, et.al., 2013).

Interestingly, even if Harvard University is the oldest university in America, the College of William and Mary still uses a building that predates Harvard’s foundation. The College of William and Mary was also the first school to teach political economy (1784) and employ an elective system of study (1779).

Notable graduates

Ellen Stofan Graduated in 1983 with a major in geology; NASA chief scientist and current director of the Smithsonian’s Air and Space Museum.
Beth Comstock Graduated in 1982 with a major in biology; former vice-chairperson of General Electric and co-founder of Hulu.
Jon Stewart Graduated in 1984 with a major in psychology; Emmy Award-winning comedian and satirist.
Glenn Close Graduated in 1974 with a double major in theatre and anthropology; Emmy and Tony Award-winning actress.
Jill Ellis Graduated in 1988 with a major in English; winningest U.S. Soccer coach, with back-to-back World Cups.

QS Ranking (2020): #651-700 (Global), #80 (U.S.)

THE Ranking (2020): #201-250 (Global), #79 (U.S.)

Average tuition fee (2020): $17,434 (In-state), $40,089 (Out-of-state)

5. St. John’s College Annapolis

Year founded: 1696

Founder: The Episcopal Church

Location: Annapolis, Maryland, U.S.

Originally called King William’s School, it is Maryland’s first “free" school. This means that it was the oldest US university established to liberate students through education. It received its current name in 1784. It is composed of two campuses, one in Annapolis, Maryland and the other in Santa Fe, New Mexico.

Although its name features a saint’s name, St John’s College has no religious affiliation. It is also known for its small class sizes, which allows its faculty to provide students with more personalized and focused attention.

Notable graduates

Francis Scott Key Graduated in 1796; lyricist of the U.S. national anthem, The Star-Spangled Banner.
James H. Frame Graduated in 1950; a computer programming pioneer at IBM and former vice president of software at ITT.
Ahmet Ertegun Graduated in 1944; founder of Atlantic Records.
Thomas Parran Jr. Graduated 1911 (AB) and 1915 (AM); 6th Surgeon General of the United States

QS Ranking (2020): NA

THE Ranking (2020): NA

Average tuition fee (2020): $35,000

6. University of Delaware

Year founded: 1743

Founder: Dr. Francis Alison

Location: Newark, Delaware, U.S.

The history of the University of Delaware when Francis Alison established a “Free School" in his New London, Pennsylvania home in 1743. During the early years, it was the oldest college in USA that was operating under the support of the Philadelphia Synod of the Presbyterian Church. By 1765, the classes were held in Newark. Four years later, the Free School was chartered as the Academy of Newark. However, as Delaware was part of the Pennsylvania colony until 1776, the school was denied a charter to avoid competition with the University of Pennsylvania.

When Delaware was separated from Pennsylvania, the state moved to charter a college in 1833, the New Ark College. Its name was changed to Delaware College in 1843. Because of financial problems and the Civil War, it closed in 1859. It reopened in 1870. In 1941, the Women’s College started operating and by 1921, the University of Delaware was introduced to refer to both New Ark College and the Women’s College. Since then, the university has adopted a co-educational policy.

Notable graduates

Joe Biden Graduated 1965; Vice President of the United States during the term of Barack Obama.
Joseph H. Harper Graduated in 1922; World War II airborne office who later commanded the United States Army Infantry School
Daniel Nathans Graduated in 1950 with a BS in chemistry; renowned microbiologist who won the 1978 Nobel Prize in Physiology/Medicine for his discovery of restriction enzymes.
Roger Alan Craig Graduated in 2010 with a PhD in computer science; computer scientist who became known for becoming a Jeopardy! Champion where he held the record for highest single-day winnings.

QS Ranking (2020): #541-550 (Global), #111-120 (U.S.)

THE Ranking (2020): #251-300 (Global), #148 (US..)

Average tuition fee (2020): $6,365 (In-state), $17,080 (Out-of-state)

7. Moravian College

Year founded: 1742

Founder: Countess Benigna von Zinzendorf

Location: Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, U.S.

Moravian College was the first college to provide education to women and Native Americans in their native language. It was originally called Bethlehem Female Seminary and was the first boarding school for women in the US

The institution was first chartered to grant bachelor’s degrees in 1863. In 1913, its name was changed to Moravian Seminary and College for Women. It eventually became co-educational in 1954 when the two genders merged.

The school gained popularity after George Washington himself personally petitioned the school’s headmaster to admit two of his great-nieces.

Notable graduates

John Andretti Graduated in 1985; race car driver for NASCAR, Indy car, and NHRA.
Andrew A. Humphreys Graduated in 1822; one of the principal incorporators of the National Academy of Science.
James Montgomery Beck Graduated in 1880; Solicitor General of the United States (19211925) and member of United States House of Representatives (19271934).
Janine Jagger Graduated cum laude in 1972 with a degree in psychology; epidemiologist who was awarded the MacArthur Fellowship in 2002 and serves as the director of the International Health Care Worker Safety Center at the University of Virginia School of Medicine.

QS Ranking (2020): NA

THE Ranking (2020): #285 (U.S.)

Average tuition fee (2020): $47,052

8. Princeton University

Year founded: 1746

Founder: New Light Presbyterians

Location: Princeton, New Jersey, U.S.

An Ivy League institution, Princeton University’s history exemplifies the greatest paradox in American history: that liberty and slavery were closely intertwined. First called the College of New Jersey, the university’s campus became a battleground when George Washington fought the British forces in 1777 in the name of the country’s freedom. However, slavery was also a fundamental part of its academic landscape (Sandweiss, 2020). Ultimately, it was in the university’s Nassau Hall that Washington formally received the recognition and thanks of the Continental Congress for his success in the American Revolution.

The school adopted the name Princeton University in 1896. Its graduate school first opened in 1900. It began accepting female students in 1969.

Notable graduates

Jeff Bezos Graduated in 1986; founder of Amazon.com.
John Nash Graduated in 1950; Nobel Prize in Economics winner, the inspiration behind the award-winning film A Beautiful Mind.
Michelle Obama Graduated in 1985; First Lady of the United States, wife of President Barack Obama.
Eric Schmidt Graduated in 1976; former CEO of Google.

QS Ranking (2020): #12 (Global), #9 (U.S.)

THE Ranking (2020): #6 (Global), #5 (U.S.)

Average tuition fee (2020): $24,251

9. Columbia University

Year founded: 1754

Founder: George II of Great Britain

Location: New York City, New York, U.S.

Columbia College is the 10th of the oldest universities in the US. An Ivy League school, it was first chartered in 1754 as King’s College. It was renamed Columbia College in 1784 after the U.S. gained its independence. It is also the oldest higher education institution in the state of New York. Its alumni include five of the Founding Fathers of the United States.

Columbia College was an undergraduate liberal arts school for men. In 1983, it started admitting female students. Aside from Columbia College, also under Columbia University are the School of Engineering and Applied Science and the School of General Studies) and the affiliated Barnard and Teachers colleges.

Columbia University administers the Pulitzer Prize. The university ranks well for its arts and humanities programs, as well as anatomy and physiology.

Notable graduates

J.D. Salinger Attended a short story class in 1939; author, best known for his novel The Catcher in the Rye.
Warren Buffett Graduated in 1951 with an MS in economics; renowned investor and business tycoon, and chairman and CEO of Berkshire Hathaway.
David Eppstein Graduated in 1989 with a PhD in computer science; a computer scientist and mathematician known for his work in computational geometry, graph algorithms, and recreational mathematics.
John Stevens Graduated in 1768; American lawyer, engineer, and inventor who built the first steam railroad and ferry, and responsible for first U.S. patent law.

QS Ranking (2020): #19 (Global), #5 (U.S.)

THE Ranking (2020): #16 (Global), #15 (U.S.)

Average tuition fee (2020): $71,460

10. Washington and Lee University

Year founded: 1749

Founder: Scots-Irish Presbyterian

Location: Lexington, Virginia, U.S.

A private liberal arts university, the Washington and Lee University had its first major benefactor in the person of George Washington. He endowed the school with $20,000, which at the time was the biggest endowment to have been given to an educational institution in the country.

Just like other schools from its era, Washington and Lee also went through several name changes before settling in the current one. It was once called the “Liberty Hall" during the American Revolution. Ultimately, it got its name from its first benefactor and General Robert E. Lee, the university’s president from 1865 until he died in 1870.

Washington and Lee has a student-run honor system. It also allows students to take exams unsupervised and buildings are open 24 hours a day. However, those who will be found cheating, stealing, or lying will be expelled.

Notable graduates

Joseph L. Goldstein Graduated in 1962; won the Nobel Prize for Medicine for his work in cholesterol metabolism and discovery of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) receptors.
H. F. Lenfest Graduated in 1953; philanthropist and CEO of the Lenfest Group.
David Gardiner Tyler Graduated in 1869; son of President John Tyler and then U.S. Representative
Mike Henry Graduated in 1988; comedian, writer, and producer most known for his work in Family Guy.
Tom Wolfe Graduated in 1951; writer most known for his association with New Journalism.

QS Ranking (2020): NA

THE Ranking (2020): #70 (U.S.)

Average tuition fee (2020): $56,170

11. Brown University

Year founded: 1764

Founder: Brown Brothers (Moses, Nicholas, Joseph, and John)

Location: Providence, Rhode Island, U.S.

Next on the list is another Ivy League university. It was first chartered in 1764 as Rhode Island College and served as a Baptist institution for women in Warren, R.I. It was moved to Providence, R.I. in 1770. The school started using the name Brown University to honor its benefactor Nicholas Brown in 1804.

Francis Wayland, who served as the university’s president from 1827 to 1855, was responsible for broadening the curriculum by adding modern languages and expanding elective offerings. The university became fully co-educational in 1971 when it merged with Pembroke College, which was first known as the Women’s College Adjunct to Brown University.

Brown University now consists of the undergraduate, graduate, and medical schools. It has an unconventional requirement for students who are about to graduate, requiring them to develop their own multidisciplinary study program, which may be based on one of the university’s over 70 academic concentrations.

Notable graduates

Aaron T. Beck Graduated magna cum laude in 1942; known as the father of cognitive behavioral therapy who also founded the Beck Institute for Cognitive Therapy at the University of Pennsylvania.
Anthony Aguirre Graduated in 1995 with a degree in mathematics and physics; a theoretical physicist and Buchalter Cosmology Prize winner.
Lee Eliot Berk Graduated in 1964; then-president and namesake of the Berklee College of Music.
Stanley Falkow Graduated in 1961 with a PhD; referred to as the father of molecular microbial pathogenesis and Lasker Award winner.
Lisa Gelobter Graduated in 1991; computer scientist who developed several visual programs including Shockwave.

QS Ranking (2020): #60 (Global), #20 (U.S.)

THE Ranking (2020): #53 (Global), #7 (U.S.)

Average tuition fee (2020): $29,627

12. Rutgers University

Year founded: 1766

Founder: Ministers of the Dutch Reformed Church

Location: New Brunswick, New Jersey, US

Although known today as Rutgers College, the school used to be called Queen’s College. It takes the reputation of having the most diversified and extensive research facilities in New Jersey. Rutgers University is also known as the birthplace of college football.

The university struggled to survive and stopped operating several times in the 1800s after the American Revolution ended. It adopted the name Rutgers College in 1825 to honor the philanthropist, Colonel Henry Rutgers. Under the Morrill Act of 1862, it became the state’s land-grant college. Rutgers assumed university status in 1924.

Rutgers University has its main and biggest campus at New Brunswick and other smaller campuses at Camden and Newark. The main campus is home to the original Rutgers College, Douglas College, Cook College, and Livingston College. It also houses the colleges of pharmacy and engineering, as well as the graduate school for liberal arts, education, arts, and business. The Camden and Newark campuses each have several undergraduate and graduate departments.

Notable graduates

Greg Brown Graduated 1982; president and co-CEO of Motorola.
Alvaro de Molina Graduated in 1988; retired CFO of Bank of America.
Garret A. Hobart Graduated in 1863; industrialist and former Vice President of the United States.
Ted Hines Graduated in 1958 with a master’s in library science and in 1960 with a PhD; librarian and information scientist who pioneered computer information cataloging systems.

QS Ranking (2020): #268 (Global), #41 (U.S.)

THE Ranking (2020): #251 (U.S.)

Average tuition fee (2020): $6,115 to $7,369.50 (In-state), $14,506 to 17,743 (Out-of-state)

13. Dartmouth College

Year founded: 1769

Founder: Eleazar Wheelock

Location: Hanover, New Hampshire, U.S.

As an Ivy League institution, Dartmouth College remains unique as it is the only one that still has the term “college" attached to its name. It is also the only institution in this list that didn’t previously come by any other name.

Dartmouth College was established by Eleazar Wheelock with the goal of training Native Americans to become Christian missionaries. The institution was named in honor of William Legge, 2nd Earl of Dartmouth, who served as president of the trustees that funded the school.

Despite being smaller than other Ivy League universities, Dartmouth is known for being a small yet innovative liberal arts college. It primarily focuses on undergraduate education and maintains small classes, to promote close student-teacher interactions. Dartmouth College is also commended for the quality of its professional schools.

Notable graduates

Karl Barry Sharpless Graduated in 1963; Nobel Prize in Chemistry 2001 winner.
Owen Chamberlain Graduated in 1941; Nobel Prize in Physics 1959 co-winner.
Michael Arad Graduated in 1991; World Trade Center Memorial designer.
Bill Beutel Graduated in 1953; first anchor of the show that became Good Morning America.
Steve Russell Graduated in 1958; computer programmer who created the video game Spacewar!, making him a gaming pioneer.

QS Ranking (2020): #203 (Global), #37 (U.S.)

THE Ranking (2020): #94 (Global), #12 (U.S.)

Average tuition fee (2020): $57,796

14. College of Charleston

Year founded: 1770

Founder: Lord Shaftesbury

Location: Charleston, South Carolina, U.S.

Established in 1770 and chartered in 1785, the College of Charleston is the oldest higher education institution in South Carolina. It was first called Charleston College.

The city of Charleston took governance of the college in 1836, making it the first municipal college in the US. Up until 1928, it only admitted male students. In 1968, the college also started admitting African Americans.

The College of Charleston was heavily damaged by the American Civil War. It also survived an earthquake in 1886 and a hurricane in 1989. In 1970, the college became affiliated with the South Carolina State College System.

The College of Charleston remained focused on undergraduate studies, while the University of Charleston, established in 1992, provided graduate programs.

Notable graduates

Ludwig Lewisohn Graduated in 1901; a novelist and reputed literary critic who is also a founding professor of Brandeis University.
Catherine Mann Graduated in 1985; a USA Today bestselling novelist who also won the RITA Award.
Nick Shalosky Graduated in 2010; the first openly gay official elected in South Carolina.
John Charles Fremont Graduated in 1836; known as “the Great Pathfinder" who explored the West between the 1830s and 1840s.

QS Ranking (2020): NA

THE Ranking (2020): #501-600 (U.S.)

Average tuition fee (2020): $12,518 (In-state), $32,848 (Out-of-state)

15. Salem College

Year founded: 1772

Founder: Moravians

Location: Winston-Salem, North Carolina, U.S.

Salem College prides itself on being the oldest liberal arts education institution for women in the US. Its history can be traced back to April 1772 when the Moravians of Salem established a school for girls. Sister Elisabeth Oesterlein served as the first teacher in the school, which was initially called Little Girls’ School.

In 1802, it became a boarding school and its name was changed to Salem Female Academy in 1866. The school started awarding college diplomas in 1890. In 1907, the school adopted the name Salem Academy and College.

Though officially classified as a women’s college, the institution accepts men 23 years old and above into its continuing education and graduate programs. Salem College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Notable graduates

Sarah Childress Polk Attended 1817; First Lady of the United States, wife of President James K. Polk.
Celia Weston Unknown graduation year; American movie and stage actress.
Sarah Covington Fulcher Unknown graduation year; an athlete who currently holds two world records and the first woman to have completed a 2700-mile run across Australia.

QS Ranking (2020): NA

THE Ranking (2020): #501-600 (U.S.)

Average tuition fee (2020): $31,016

How Do Historic Colleges Leverage Alumni Networks for Career Advancement?

Historic colleges capitalize on long-established alumni networks to bridge academic heritage with modern career opportunities. These institutions design structured mentorship programs, host networking events, and offer dynamic career services that connect current students with experienced alumni across various industries. Such initiatives facilitate access to exclusive job markets, internships, and professional growth opportunities. Moreover, strategic partnerships fostered by alumni can lead to innovative educational pathways, including opportunities for those interested in courses like a 6 month associate degree online, effectively speeding up professional entry in today’s competitive job market.

Are Historic Colleges Expanding Their Offerings with Certificate Programs?

Several venerable institutions are diversifying beyond traditional degrees by integrating alternative credentialing options into their academic portfolios. In response to market demands for specialized skills and quicker career entry points, some historic colleges have introduced targeted programs that emphasize practical, job-ready training. These innovative offerings enable students to acquire focused knowledge without a full-length degree commitment. Furthermore, by incorporating flexible, often online, formats into their legacy systems, these institutions are addressing the needs of non-traditional learners while preserving their rich academic heritage. Prospective students interested in fast-tracking their careers can explore opportunities through certificate programs.

Are Historic Colleges Offering Accessible Undergraduate Programs?

Several venerable institutions are recalibrating their curricula to include accessible undergraduate programs tailored for a diverse student body. In response to evolving educational demands, some of these colleges are introducing streamlined academic tracks that combine academic rigor with flexibility, aiming to reduce entry barriers and expedite degree completion. These initiatives incorporate modern pedagogical tools and enhanced support services, which not only simplify the academic journey but also promote career readiness. For a comprehensive overview of such programs, explore easy bachelor degrees.

Are Historic Colleges Embracing Accelerated Master's Programs for Career Advancement?

Many historic institutions are modernizing their graduate education by incorporating accelerated master’s programs tailored for working professionals. These accelerated pathways use flexible course designs, digital classrooms, and industry-relevant curricula to provide advanced academic and practical skills in a shortened timeframe. This approach enables students to balance career growth with educational advancement while maintaining the academic rigor associated with longstanding traditions. For more information on these innovative options, explore 1 year online masters degrees.

How Are Centuries-Old Colleges Innovating for the Modern Era?

Historic institutions are updating their academic models to address the needs of today’s competitive workforce by integrating technology and flexible learning frameworks. Many have introduced modern pathways, such as accelerated online degrees, which offer streamlined curricula designed for non-traditional students and busy professionals. These pioneering efforts include the adoption of digital teaching tools, the revision of course structures to support interdisciplinary learning, and strategic collaborations with industry leaders to align educational outcomes with emerging career demands.

The Role of Military-Friendly Education in U.S. College Tradition

Education in the United States has a storied history of adapting to meet the needs of diverse student populations, including veterans and active-duty members of the military. Military-friendly colleges have emerged as vital institutions in this evolution. They provide tailored support and flexible learning options that cater specifically to the unique circumstances of military-affiliated students. These institutions uphold a legacy of inclusiveness and accessibility that aligns with America’s founding principles of freedom and opportunity.

Among the options available to service members, many military friendly online colleges offer robust programs designed to balance academic achievement with military commitments. By embracing advancements in online learning and fostering support networks, these colleges ensure that service members and veterans receive high-quality education. This not only complements traditional in-person education but also expands the reach of academic institutions to those serving on active duty or transitioning to civilian life.

This pivotal role of military-friendly colleges echoes the resilience and adaptability of the nation’s oldest institutions, which evolved to remain relevant through the centuries. By integrating forward-thinking educational frameworks, these colleges contribute significantly to shaping a new generation of students who are not only academically prepared but also equipped to lead with discipline and purpose—a hallmark of military education traditions.

How Do Historic Colleges Offer Diverse and Flexible Academic Pathways?

Institutions with centuries of heritage are now integrating flexible academic structures to cater to varied learner profiles, without compromising the rigor that defines their legacy. Many of these institutions have developed alternative degree tracks, including modular coursework, part-time enrollment options, and innovative credit transfer systems that accommodate non-traditional students. By refining curriculum pathways and embracing adaptable educational models, these colleges ensure that a broader spectrum of students can pursue higher education. For a perspective on accessible undergraduate options, consider what is the easiest bachelor's degree to get.

Are Historic Colleges Integrating Accelerated Doctoral Programs?

Many venerable institutions are evolving to meet modern research and professional demands by introducing accelerated doctoral pathways. These programs leverage digital platforms and intensive curricula that enable candidates to complete advanced research credentials in a shortened time frame. Such initiatives maintain rigorous academic standards while offering a quicker route to scholarly and professional advancement. Notably, some institutions now provide opportunities through 1 year PhD programs online, creatively bridging tradition with contemporary educational innovation.

Colleges in the US: Long History of Education and Freedom

All of these universities were established long before the U.S. was given its freedom in 1776. As such, these institutions were witnesses to how the country was shaped into the United States that we know today. They have withstood closures, mergers and takeovers that have had swept the higher learning sector over the centuries. These colleges also educated a lot of professionals and scholars who eventually made a difference in their respective fields. Anyone who can study in any of these schools can consider themselves privileged, as they can enjoy the chance of getting topnotch education that can help set them up for the future.

Key Insights

Historical Significance: Many of the oldest colleges in the U.S. were established before the country gained independence in 1776, highlighting their deep-rooted historical importance.
Reputation and Prestige: These institutions are renowned for their academic excellence, heritage, and notable alumni, contributing to their long-standing prestige and influence in various fields.
Diverse Offerings: Despite their age, these colleges offer a wide range of degrees and programs, from liberal arts to specialized fields like business administration, reflecting their adaptability and relevance over centuries.
Notable Alumni: Graduates from these institutions include U.S. presidents, Nobel laureates, prominent scientists, and influential public figures, underscoring the high caliber of education and opportunities provided.
Endurance and Evolution: These colleges have survived significant historical events and societal changes, demonstrating their resilience and ability to evolve while maintaining high educational standards.

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Other Things You Should Know About The Oldest Colleges in the US

What is the oldest college in the United States?

The oldest college in the United States is Harvard University, founded in 1636 in Boston, Massachusetts.

Are all the oldest colleges in the U.S. part of the Ivy League?

No, while several of the oldest colleges are Ivy League institutions, there are also non-Ivy institutions on the list, such as the College of William and Mary and Moravian College.

Why do older colleges have such a strong reputation?

Older colleges have built their reputations over centuries through consistent academic excellence, notable alumni, historical significance, and contributions to various fields of study.

Do these colleges offer modern programs and degrees?

Yes, despite their age, these colleges offer a wide range of modern programs and degrees, including business administration, management, human resources, marketing, and public administration.

How have these colleges managed to survive for so long?

These colleges have demonstrated resilience by adapting to societal changes, maintaining high educational standards, securing funding and endowments, and continuously evolving their curricula to meet modern demands.

Are these colleges only for undergraduate students?

No, many of these colleges also offer graduate and professional programs, providing opportunities for advanced degrees and specialized education.

What are some common degrees offered by the oldest colleges?

Common degrees include business administration, management, human resources, marketing, public administration, and various liberal arts and sciences programs.

Do these colleges have any unique traditions or features?

Yes, many of these colleges have unique traditions, honor codes, and historical landmarks that reflect their rich heritage and contribute to their distinct identities.

Can international students apply to these oldest colleges?

Yes, most of these colleges welcome international students and offer various programs and support services to help them integrate and succeed academically.

How do these colleges contribute to their local communities and beyond?

These colleges contribute through research, public service, community engagement, and producing graduates who go on to make significant contributions in various fields locally and globally.