College of William and Mary

We're different, and we like it that way. William Mary is unlike any other university in America. We’re the second oldest college in the nation, but also a cutting-edge research university. We’re a "Public Ivy" — one of only eight in the nation — offering a world-class education at an exceptional value. Our students are not only some of the smartest in the world, but passionate about serving others and serious about having fun. Our professors are teachers, scholars and research mentors, the cornerstone of a thriving intellectual community that produces experienced, engaged, successful graduates. Through their strengths, passions and knowledge, our faculty, students and staff are creating a new model of sustainability for higher education. We love our hometown of Williamsburg and the amazing Commonwealth of Virginia and we’re proud to be one of the reasons for their economic success. OUR HISTORY - Chartered on February 8, 1693, by King William III and Queen Mary II of England - The second oldest institution of higher learning in America, and the first to become a university - Severed formal ties with Britain in 1776 - Became state-supported in 1906 and coeducational in 1918 - Phi Beta Kappa, the nation's first academic Greek society, was founded here in 1776 - We also have the nation's first Honor Code