History & Traditions

In 1795, Union College became the first college chartered by the Board of Regents of the State of New York.

Since its founding, Union has been defining—and redefining—the meaning of a liberal arts education.

When a classical education was considered the only acceptable field of study, Union introduced a bachelor's degree with an emphasis on history, modern languages, science and mathematics.

We were the first liberal arts college in the nation to offer engineering.

We created a new vision for campus life by establishing Minerva Houses, which bring students and faculty together outside the classroom for both social and academic activities.

And thanks to a brand new $51 million alumni gift, we will transform engineering and the liberal arts with the creation of the Templeton Institute for Engineering and Computer Science.

This is a small white spacer decorative image

In 1795, Union College became the first college chartered by the Board of Regents of the State of New York.

Since its founding, Union has been defining—and redefining—the meaning of a liberal arts education.

When a classical education was considered the only acceptable field of study, Union introduced a bachelor's degree with an emphasis on history, modern languages, science and mathematics.

We were the first liberal arts college in the nation to offer engineering.

We created a new vision for campus life be establishing Minerva Houses, which bring students and faculty together outside the classroom for both social and academic activities.

And thanks to a brand new $51 million alumni gift, we will transform engineering and the liberal arts with the creation of the Templeton Institute for Engineering and Computer Science.

This is a small white spacer decorative image
The Union College sign and students sitting at a table talking to one another.

Motto

Sous les lois de Minerve nous devenons tous frères et sœurs (Under the laws of Minerva, we all become brothers and sisters)