Our Founding and Early Years
The Massachusetts Institute of Technology was founded in 1861 by William Barton Rogers, a visionary scientist who believed in "the necessity of basing the professional and practical work of the School upon the previous thorough scientific training."
William Barton Rogers, founder of MIT
Despite being chartered in 1861, MIT didn't open until 1865 due to the Civil War. The first classes were held in rented space in Boston's Back Bay.
MIT's early curriculum emphasized laboratory instruction, field work, and the application of scientific knowledge to practical problems—a radical departure from the classical education of the time.
The Institute moved to its current location in Cambridge in 1916, marking the beginning of a new era of growth and innovation.
Timeline of Key Events
MIT is Chartered
The Commonwealth of Massachusetts approves MIT's charter, which is signed by Governor John Albion Andrew.
First Classes Begin
MIT opens its doors to 15 students in rented space in Boston's Mercantile Building.
Move to Cambridge
MIT moves across the Charles River to its new Cambridge campus designed by architect William Welles Bosworth.
MIT Radiation Laboratory
During World War II, MIT becomes a center for radar research, developing technology crucial to Allied victory.
Centennial Celebration
MIT marks its 100th anniversary with a year-long celebration and the dedication of new buildings.
OpenCourseWare Launches
MIT revolutionizes education by making course materials freely available online, benefiting learners worldwide.
MIT's Educational Philosophy
From its founding, MIT has embraced a philosophy of "learning by doing" that combines rigorous academic study with hands-on experience. This approach, known as the "MIT Method," has shaped generations of innovators and problem-solvers.
"The true and only practicable object of a polytechnic school is, as I conceive, the teaching, not of the minute details and manipulations of the arts, which can be done only in the workshop, but the inculcation of those scientific principles which form the basis and explanation of them."
— William Barton Rogers, 1861
Modern Era and Global Impact
Today, MIT continues to push boundaries in science, technology, and education. With over 1,000 faculty members, 11,000 students, and a global network of alumni, MIT's impact extends far beyond its Cambridge campus.
Research Leadership
MIT researchers have been awarded 98 Nobel Prizes, with groundbreaking work in physics, chemistry, medicine, and economics.
From developing the first synthetic penicillin to pioneering artificial intelligence, MIT continues to be at the forefront of discovery.
Entrepreneurial Spirit
MIT alumni have founded over 30,000 active companies, creating millions of jobs and generating nearly $2 trillion in annual revenue.
Companies like Intel, Dropbox, and Bose trace their roots to MIT's entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Quick Facts
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Founded
April 10, 1861
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Founder
William Barton Rogers
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First Location
Boston's Back Bay (1865-1916)
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Current Campus
Cambridge, MA (since 1916)
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Motto
"Mens et Manus" (Mind and Hand)
