Our History

Since its formation in 1858 the University of London International Programmes has become a global leader in distance and flexible study, with over 50,000 students in over 190 countries.

Dateline

1836	University of London founded following the merger of King’s College London and University College London.
1858	Queen Victoria signs a charter that ushers in the University of London International Programmes. This was to make a unique contribution to the development of university education, both in this country and abroad.
1859	First examinations taken at approved centres in Britain.
1865	First examinations taken at approved overseas centres in Mauritius.
1878	The University of London became the first university in the UK to admit women to degree courses.
1908	With over 4,000 students registered, the University of London was the largest University in the UK and the fifth largest in the world.
1914-1918	Allied prisoners of war studied for University of London qualifications in Prisoner of War camps.
1939-1945	Again allied prisoners of war studied for University of London qualifications in Prisoner of War camps.
1947 onwards	We played a major role in helping higher education institutions in Africa and the West Indies achieve full University status.
1970s	Nelson Mandela studies for a University of London LLB whilst incarcerated on Robben Island, South Africa.
1992	Luisa Diogo, Prime Minister of Mozambique, graduates with an MSc in Financial Economics.
2002	eCampus portal launched providing an Online Library and the facilities for students to study online.
2007	Professor Jonathan Kydd appointed as first Dean of the University of London International Programmes
2008	The University of London International Programmes Celebrates its 150th anniversary
2010	The University of London External System changes name to University of London International Programmes