49 Interesting Facts about York University

Dan April 16, 2023

York University is a public research university located in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. It was established in 1959 and has since grown to become the third-largest university in the country with over 50,000 students enrolled in various programs. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs in fields such as business, law, engineering, health, humanities, and social sciences.

One of the unique features of York University is its emphasis on social justice and equity issues. The university has a strong commitment to diversity and inclusivity and offers a variety of programs and initiatives to support underrepresented groups. For instance, York has an Indigenous Framework that aims to increase the number of Indigenous students and staff, provide culturally relevant services and support, and foster partnerships with Indigenous communities.

York University is also known for its innovative research programs. It is home to several research centers and institutes, including the Centre for Atmospheric Chemistry, the Centre for Feminist Research, and the Institute for Research on Digital Learning. The university has also established research partnerships with various organizations, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, and private corporations.

York University offers a vibrant campus life with many opportunities for extracurricular activities, including sports, clubs, and cultural events. The university has several on-campus residences, and students can also take advantage of the many resources and services offered, such as academic advising, career counseling, and health and wellness services. Overall, York University is an excellent choice for students looking for a diverse and inclusive learning environment, innovative research opportunities, and a vibrant campus life.

Let’s take a look at these 49 interesting facts about York University to know more about this public research university.

1. York University was founded in 1959 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
2. It is the third-largest university in Canada with over 50,000 students enrolled.
3. York University is named after the historic English city of York.
4. The university’s motto is “Tentanda Via,” which means “the way must be tried.”
5. York University is divided into 11 faculties and schools, including the Schulich School of Business, the Osgoode Hall Law School, and the Faculty of Science.
6. The university has over 7,000 faculty and staff members.
7. York University has a strong commitment to social justice and equity issues.
8. The university has a large number of international students, with over 7,000 students from more than 180 countries.
9. York University is home to several research centers and institutes, including the Centre for Feminist Research, the Centre for Vision Research, and the Centre for Refugee Studies.
10. York University is known for its innovative research programs in fields such as robotics, environmental studies, and digital media.
11. The university has partnerships with several organizations, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, and private corporations.
12. York University has a vibrant campus life with many opportunities for extracurricular activities.
13. The university has over 300 clubs and organizations for students to join.
14. York University has over 1,500 international exchange agreements with universities around the world.
15. The university has a strong commitment to sustainability, with initiatives such as the Sustainable Energy Initiative and the Sustainability Office.
16. York University has a large library system with over 5 million items, including books, journals, and electronic resources.
17. The university has a strong athletic program, with 24 varsity sports teams.
18. York University’s athletic teams are called the York Lions.
19. The university has several on-campus residences for students to live in.
20. York University has a strong commitment to Indigenous education and reconciliation, with initiatives such as the Indigenous Framework and the Centre for Indigenous Student Services.
21. The university has a large number of alumni who have gone on to successful careers in a variety of fields.
22. York University is located in the Greater Toronto Area, one of the most diverse regions in Canada.
23. The university is easily accessible by public transportation, with several subway and bus stations located on or near campus.
24. York University has a large number of parking spaces for students, staff, and visitors.
25. The university has several food options on campus, including several cafeterias, restaurants, and food trucks.
26. York University has a strong commitment to mental health and wellness, with initiatives such as the Mental Health and Wellness Centre and the Good2Talk Helpline.
27. The university has several study abroad programs for students to participate in.
28. York University has a strong commitment to community engagement, with initiatives such as the York Cares program and the Centre for Social Innovation.
29. The university has several research partnerships with hospitals and healthcare organizations.
30. York University has a strong commitment to arts and culture, with initiatives such as the School of the Arts, Media, Performance & Design and the Glendon Theatre.
31. The university has a large number of awards and scholarships available to students.
32. York University has several student-run publications, including the Excalibur and the York Vision.
33. The university has a strong commitment to accessibility, with initiatives such as the Accessibility Services Office and the Centre for Human Rights.
34. York University has a large number of academic support services, including tutoring, academic advising, and writing centres.
35. The university has several research partnerships with organizations in the aerospace industry.
36. York University has a strong commitment to innovation and entrepreneurship, with initiatives such as the Innovation York and the LaunchYU programs.
37. The university is home to the Bergeron Centre for Engineering Excellence, which was designed to promote collaboration and innovation among engineering students.
38. York University has several research partnerships with organizations in the financial services industry.
39. The university has a large number of graduate programs, including programs in law, business, and education.
40. York University is home to the York Centre for International and Security Studies, which focuses on issues related to international relations and security.
41. The university has several research partnerships with organizations in the technology industry.
42. York University has a strong commitment to experiential education, with initiatives such as the Co-op Program and the Internship Program.
43. The university has several research partnerships with organizations in the automotive industry.
44. York University is home to the Robarts Centre for Canadian Studies, which focuses on issues related to Canadian history, politics, and culture.
45. The university has several research partnerships with organizations in the energy industry.
46. York University is home to the York Research Tower, which houses several research centers and institutes.
47. The university has several research partnerships with organizations in the pharmaceutical industry.
48. York University has a strong commitment to interdisciplinary research, with initiatives such as the York Research Alliance and the York Institute for Health Research.
49. The university has several research partnerships with organizations in the telecommunications industry.

York University is a dynamic and diverse institution that offers a wide range of academic programs and research initiatives across multiple disciplines. With a strong commitment to innovation, entrepreneurship, and experiential education, the university is dedicated to preparing students for successful careers and meaningful contributions to society. York’s emphasis on interdisciplinary research and community engagement fosters a collaborative and inclusive learning environment that encourages students to explore new ideas and approaches to solving complex problems. Overall, York University is a leading institution in Canada and the world, and it continues to push boundaries in research, teaching, and learning to shape a better future for all.