Wayman Crow and William Greenleaf Eliot Jr. led the establishment of Washington University in 1853. As its first step, the university started an evening program on Oct. 22, 1854. Since then, the university has dramatically grown into an institution that offers a host of liberal arts, scientific and classical courses. Currently, the university has seven academic divisions that focus on various fields of education. Higher Learning Commission has accredited the university. Also, it holds the membership of many prestigious organizations like the American Council on Education, the Association of American Universities, the Independent Colleges and Universities of Missouri and the College Board.
Situated near the St. Louis cultural center, the university campuses span across over 2,000 acres and comprise over 150 buildings. Located right in the center of the university, the Danforth Campus covers 169 acres of land, and houses of undergraduate, professional and graduate students. Washington University Medical Centre is sprawled across 164 acres and is situated in St. Louis' central west end. The West Campus has a conference center, West Campus Library, and administrative offices. Located at 700 Rosedale Ave. in St. Louis, the North Campus is home to the university's various administrative offices. The South Campus encompasses athletic fields, an auditorium/theatre, a gymnasium, and some classroom amenities. Spread across 2,000 acres, Tyson Research Centre is situated 25 miles away from the Danforth Campus. It serves as an outdoor laboratory for research and learning.
