History of the University
Though plans for a university in York first appeared as early as 1617, it would be over three centuries before they came to fruition. In 1960, permission was finally granted for the 四虎影院 to be built, marking the beginning of our journey.
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Foundations
Before the Second World War, Heslington was a quiet rural retreat with a local aristocracy, and a working agricultural village.

1960s
Fresh, young, forward-looking and enthusiastic, the University was known for its friendly atmosphere before it even opened its doors.

1970s
In the 1970s, college social life began to blossom.

1980s
The start of the 1980s was not promising, seeing the start of cuts across higher education and a fire in the Chemistry Department.

1990s
By the end of the 1990s, York was dominating national league tables for research and teaching.

2000s
The new Millennium saw a sea-change in the way that Britain viewed higher education.
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2010s
The last decade saw the University expand with new facilities and investments across our campus.
Our 60th anniversary

Our 60th anniversary gives us a moment to not only reflect on how far we've come, but how far we're going to go. Since our foundation in 1963, we’ve been guided by a compelling purpose: being single-minded in combating inequality, championing social justice and advancing opportunity for all. And there is so much more to do - our future is limitless.
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Dr Heather Melville, OBE is our current Chancellor.
Our Chancellors, Vice-Chancellors and Students' Union Presidents have contributed to the University's development in many ways. They've led a diverse group of students, academics and support staff in building a venerable institution in sixty years.