History of University of Iowa in Timeline

The University of Iowa, established in 1847 in Iowa City, is Iowa's oldest and largest public research university. It comprises 12 colleges, offering over 200 study areas and 7 professional degrees.

1923: George Gallup Graduates with BA

In 1923, George Gallup, who would later found the Gallup Poll, graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Iowa.

1925: George Gallup Graduates with MA

In 1925, George Gallup, who would later found the Gallup Poll, graduated with a Master of Arts degree from the University of Iowa.

1928: George Gallup Graduates with PhD

In 1928, George Gallup, who would later found the Gallup Poll, obtained his PhD from the University of Iowa.

1929: Iowa Stadium Opening

In 1929, Iowa Stadium opened as a new venue for the university's football program.

1936: James Van Allen Graduates with MS

In 1936, James Van Allen, later known for discovering the Van Allen Belts, graduated with an MS in Physics from the University of Iowa.

1938: Tennessee Williams Graduates with BA

In 1938, Tennessee Williams, a leading 20th-century playwright, graduated with a BA from the University of Iowa.

1939: James Van Allen Graduates with PhD

In 1939, James Van Allen, later known for discovering the Van Allen Belts, graduated with a PhD in Physics from the University of Iowa.

1939: Nile Kinnick wins Heisman Trophy

In 1939, Nile Kinnick won the Heisman Trophy.

1947: Flannery O'Connor Graduates with MFA

In 1947, Flannery O'Connor, a novelist and short story author, graduated with an MFA in English from the University of Iowa.

1951: Albert Bandura Graduates with MA

In 1951, Albert Bandura, who originated social cognitive theory, graduated with an MA from the University of Iowa.

1952: Albert Bandura Graduates with PhD

In 1952, Albert Bandura, who originated social cognitive theory, graduated with a PhD from the University of Iowa.

1954: Jewel Prestage Graduates with Master's and Doctorate

In 1954, Jewel Prestage, the first African-American woman to earn a Ph.D. in political science, graduated with a master's and a doctorate from the University of Iowa.

1955: Gene Wilder Graduates with BA

In 1955, Gene Wilder, a comedic film and television actor, graduated with a BA in Communication and Theatre Arts from the University of Iowa.

1967: John Irving Graduates with MFA

In 1967, John Irving, novelist and author of The World According to Garp and A Prayer for Owen Meany, graduated with an MFA in English from the University of Iowa.