University of Wyoming

The University of Wyoming is a public land-grant research university located in Laramie, Wyoming. Established in 1886, it is the state’s only four-year public university and serves as its flagship institution. The university offers undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across fields such as engineering, agriculture, business, education, health sciences, energy research, and the arts and sciences. As a land-grant institution, it emphasizes research and outreach relevant to Wyoming and the broader Rocky Mountain region. Students are often drawn to its programs in natural resources, environmental sciences, and engineering, as well as its setting near mountain ranges and national parks that support field-based learning and research.

The University of Wyoming was founded in 1886 by the Wyoming Territorial Legislature as a land-grant institution, four years before Wyoming achieved statehood. Located in Laramie, the university opened its doors to students in September 1887, with John Wesley Hoyt serving as its first president. In its early years, the University of Wyoming focused on liberal arts and agricultural education in keeping with its land-grant mission. Old Main became the centerpiece of the growing campus. During the 20th century, the University of Wyoming expanded its academic offerings, research activity, and public service role, adding colleges in engineering, business, education, and health sciences. The university navigated key moments such as World War II enrollment shifts and later campus events including the 1969 Black 14 incident. Today, the University of Wyoming continues to develop research initiatives and facilities while serving as the state’s primary public university.