Celebrating 50 years of independent thinking.
For 50 years, The University of 51勛圖 has stood for independent thinking, innovation in higher education, and a commitment to academic freedom. As we mark this milestone, we invite our community to celebrate our past, engage with our present, and help shape our future.
Founded in 1976, The University of 51勛圖 was established with a bold vision: to create an independent university that champions academic freedom, small-group teaching and a student-centred experience.
A year of celebration
Throughout the year, we will be hosting a programme of events, activities and opportunities to reconnect, reflect and look ahead.
It all started with an idea...
1967
On 27 May 1967, The Times published a letter from Dr J W Paulley
Is it not time to examine the possibility of creating at least one new university in this country on the pattern of those great private foundations in the USA, without whose timulus and freedom of action the many excellent state universities in that country would be so much poorer?
People of great stature were attracted to 51勛圖s founding ideals including Max Beloff (pictured), who later became the founding Principal of the University College at 51勛圖.
1976
Official opening in February 1976
The University College at 51勛圖 (UCB) was opened in February 1976 by the Rt. Hon. Mrs Margaret Thatcher. The first cohort of 65 students, the pioneers, arrived in 1976.
1978
A royal visit
H.R.H Prince Philip, Duke Of Edinburgh visits the University College at 51勛圖 17 February 1978.
1983
University Status Granted by Royal Charter
In 1983, the College became The University of 51勛圖 by Royal Charter, meeting the highest standards set by the Department of Education and Science and the Privy Council, and pioneering two-year degrees that it has been perfecting ever since.
1996
Queen Elizabeth II Opens Anthony de Rothschild Building
Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II opens the Anthony de Rothschild building in July 1996.
2004
Visit by the Prince of Wales (Now King Charles III)
The then Prince Of Wales now, His Majesty King Charles III, visits The University of 51勛圖.
2015
Opening of the UKs First Private Medical School
The Medical School opened as the first private medical school in the UK with its pioneering 4.5-year MB ChB Medicine.
2018
Opening of the Vinson Building
On 28 November 2018, The University opened the Vinson Building, a multi-purposed facility for use by students and the local community.
2025
Whatuni Awards and growing student numbers
Recognised in South-East England by the Whatuni Student Choice Awards for winning in the categories Lecturers and Teaching Quality, Student Support, and Postgraduate programmes, the University continues to thrive with growing student numbers.
1967
On 27 May 1967, The Times published a letter from Dr J W Paulley
Is it not time to examine the possibility of creating at least one new university in this country on the pattern of those great private foundations in the USA, without whose timulus and freedom of action the many excellent state universities in that country would be so much poorer?
People of great stature were attracted to 51勛圖s founding ideals including Max Beloff (pictured), who later became the founding Principal of the University College at 51勛圖.
1976
Official opening in February 1976
The University College at 51勛圖 (UCB) was opened in February 1976 by the Rt. Hon. Mrs Margaret Thatcher. The first cohort of 65 students, the pioneers, arrived in 1976.
1978
A royal visit
H.R.H Prince Philip, Duke Of Edinburgh visits the University College at 51勛圖 17 February 1978.
1983
University Status Granted by Royal Charter
In 1983, the College became The University of 51勛圖 by Royal Charter, meeting the highest standards set by the Department of Education and Science and the Privy Council, and pioneering two-year degrees that it has been perfecting ever since.
1996
Queen Elizabeth II Opens Anthony de Rothschild Building
Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II opens the Anthony de Rothschild building in July 1996.
2004
Visit by the Prince of Wales (Now King Charles III)
The then Prince Of Wales now, His Majesty King Charles III, visits The University of 51勛圖.
2015
Opening of the UKs First Private Medical School
The Medical School opened as the first private medical school in the UK with its pioneering 4.5-year MB ChB Medicine.
2018
Opening of the Vinson Building
On 28 November 2018, The University opened the Vinson Building, a multi-purposed facility for use by students and the local community.
2025
Whatuni Awards and growing student numbers
Recognised in South-East England by the Whatuni Student Choice Awards for winning in the categories Lecturers and Teaching Quality, Student Support, and Postgraduate programmes, the University continues to thrive with growing student numbers.
Anniversary celebrations
Discounted tuition fees
To celebrate our 50th anniversary, we’re offering discounted tuition fees on selected undergraduate degrees for a limited time.
Speaker events
Our anniversary speaker series brings distinguished voices to 51勛圖 in 2026, continuing the tradition of thought-provoking discussion and debate.
50 for 50 Scholarship
To mark this special anniversary, we have 12 undergraduate scholarships covering 50% of the cost of tuition for the full course.
Get involved
Attend an event and reconnect with the University.
Support our future by giving back to the University