History

From its foundation in 1826, UCL embraced a progressive and pioneering spirit. Find out about UCL's history and its contributions to society in Britain and around the world, over the past 200 years.

Highlights in UCL's 200-year history

Key dates and people

Navigate to Nobel laureates
Composite image showing Professor Geoffrey Hinton on the left and Sir Demis Hassabis on the right. Both are smiling, looking directly at the camera.

Nobel laureates

There have been 32 Nobel Prize laureates amongst UCL’s alumni and current and former staff, to date.

Navigate to Famous alumni
UCL alumni Christine Ohuruogu at UCL East opening

Famous alumni

Prominent graduates from University College London include celebrities, politicians, business people, athletes and more.

Navigate to Achievements
abstract compass

Achievements

Explore some of the key advances and discoveries that have come to light at UCL over the past 200 years.

Navigate to University developments
A view of the Portico building through a tree-lined Quad on a sunny Spring day.

University developments

Browse some of the highlights in UCL's developments as a university over the past 200 years.

Explore further

UCL's Bicentenary (UCL200)
UCL portico past and present - with logo

UCL's Bicentenary (UCL200)

2026 marks UCL's 200th Anniversary and the start of a year of Bicentennial activity and celebration. Find out more

'The World of UCL'
The World of UCL - book cover

'The World of UCL'

This book charts the history of UCL from 1826 through to the present day, highlighting its many contributions to society in Britain and around the world. Available from UCL Press.