Timeline

Milestones to university status

1875: We started life as the School of Metallurgy, part of the Birmingham & Midland Institute. The Institute played a leading role in introducing scientific and technical education to people of all backgrounds in Birmingham, and set the scene for how Aston University would evolve.
1895: We gain independence from the Birmingham & Midland Institute to become the Birmingham Municipal Technical School. We teach chemistry, physics, metallurgy and electrical engineering.
1927: We evolve to become the Birmingham Central Technical College, and now teach additional subjects such as botany and commercial classes.
1933: The Gosta Green site is acquired, and is home to our new additions – the College of Commerce, and the College of Arts and Crafts.
1955: We become the UK's first College of Advanced Technology, which is opened by Queen Elizabeth ll.
1966: Aston University receives its royal charter from Queen Elizabeth ll.
1997: In February 1997 the Privy Council approved the change in name from the University of Aston in Birmingham to Aston University.

A new chapter...

2007

The Energy and Bioproducts Research Institute (EBRI) is founded, providing practical bioenergy solutions by using waste to produce sustainable energy.

2010

The Aston Brain Centre, one of the leading brain imaging research facilities in the world, opens its doors.

2012

Aston University is the lead sponsor of the new Aston University Engineering Academy, which educates 14 - 19 year olds in engineering.

2014

Aston Medical School is founded. Offering 40 per cent of its places to students from disadvantaged communities, it is one of the UK's most socially inclusive medical schools.