# University of Chicago
Who / What
The University of Chicago is a private research university located in Chicago, Illinois, United States. It consists of an undergraduate college and numerous graduate divisions and professional schools dedicated to advanced study and research.
Background & History
The university was founded in 1890 in the Hyde Park community area of Chicago with funding from John D. Rockefeller. Its establishment was part of a broader movement to create a major research university modeled on German universities, emphasizing graduate education and scholarly research from its inception.
Why Notable
The University of Chicago is globally recognized for its influential contributions to academia, particularly through the Chicago school of economics and its pioneering work in various disciplines. It has produced a remarkable number of Nobel laureates among its faculty, researchers, and alumni. The university's rigorous Core Curriculum for undergraduates and its leading professional schools have set standards in higher education.
In the News
The university continues to be a major center for research and policy discussion, frequently appearing in news related to scientific discoveries, economic policy, and legal scholarship. Its professional schools, especially the Booth School of Business and the Law School, regularly contribute expert analysis on current events and public policy debates.