2 July 1477

The University’s charter is signed.

The initiative in this matter came from the Primate of the Catholic Church of Sweden, Archbishop Jakob Ulvsson of Uppsala. The new University was small, having at most 50 students and a handful of professors.

1600

The University’s first documented degree conferment ceremony in philosophy.

At the solemn ceremony, the new PhDs receive their symbols of honour: a ring, a diploma, and a hat or laurel wreath.

1663

Student nations are recognised by the University Board.

One of the most integral parts of student life in Uppsala is the student nations. There are thirteen student nations. Only students can become a member of the nations, which are responsible for arranging activities and events specifically for students.

1741

Carl Linnaeus becomes professor of medicine.

One reason Linnaeus’ work had such an impact was his ability to create networks, to maintain good contacts, and cultivate benefactors.

Carl Linnaeus’ biography

1893

Alfred Nobel is awarded an honorary doctorate at Uppsala University.

In 1893, the University celebrated the 300th anniversary of its restoration in connection with the Uppsala meeting. At the grand jubilee festival, Alfred Nobel was one of those awarded an honorary doctorate. 

  • The University is founded

    2 July 1477

    The University’s charter is signed.

    The initiative in this matter came from the Primate of the Catholic Church of Sweden, Archbishop Jakob Ulvsson of Uppsala. The new University was small, having at most 50 students and a handful of professors.

    The university’s first student

  • The first degree conferment

    1600

    The University’s first documented degree conferment ceremony in philosophy.

    At the solemn ceremony, the new PhDs receive their symbols of honour: a ring, a diploma, and a hat or laurel wreath.

    The doctoral conferment ceremony

  • Student nations are recognised

    1663

    Student nations are recognised by the University Board.

    One of the most integral parts of student life in Uppsala is the student nations. There are thirteen student nations. Only students can become a member of the nations, which are responsible for arranging activities and events specifically for students.

    Student nations

  • Linnaeus becomes professor

    1741

    Carl Linnaeus becomes professor of medicine.

    One reason Linnaeus’ work had such an impact was his ability to create networks, to maintain good contacts, and cultivate benefactors.

    Carl Linnaeus’ biography

    Carl von Linnés levnadsbeskrivning

  • Nobel is awarded an honorary doctorate

    1893

    Alfred Nobel is awarded an honorary doctorate at Uppsala University.

    In 1893, the University celebrated the 300th anniversary of its restoration in connection with the Uppsala meeting. At the grand jubilee festival, Alfred Nobel was one of those awarded an honorary doctorate. 

    More important dates in Uppsala University history

Human remains in the University’s collections

From the mid-nineteenth century, Uppsala University’s collections of human remains were gathered as a basis for medical research and teaching. Since then, the view of how human remains should be treated has changed. The same applies to the view of the equal value of human beings, of consent and of the right to determine what happens with your own body after death.

Read more about human remains in Uppsala University’s collections.

Exhibition cabinet with human remains such as lungs and other organs.
Last modified: 2022-12-12