Uppsala University History
Historic summary: The first university
of Sweden – founded in 1477
- The University is founded
- The first degree conferment
- Student nations are recognised
- Linnaeus becomes professor
- Nobel is awarded an honorary doctorate
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.
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.
Famous people at the University
One of the most well known people at Uppsala University is Anders Celsius. The discovery that made him world famous was the 100-degree thermometer scale. He was also prominent in astronomy and involved in the creation of Sweden’s first astronomical observatory in Uppsala.
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.
