Overview of the University of Toronto The University of Toronto, founded in 1827, has grown into Canada's foremost university of learning, discovery, and knowledge production. We are pleased to be one of the world's leading research-intensive institutions, with a strong desire to develop and innovate. Our mission is to provide education that inspires students to learn, lead, create, and serve society by promoting understanding of the human condition, fostering empathy for others, and providing access to high quality education for all. The University of Toronto has developed into an international institution with campuses in Toronto, Mississauga, Ajax, and Ithaca, New York. It offers education from pre-school through post-doctoral levels and attracts scholars from around the world to study with some of the most distinguished faculty in their fields. U of T is known for its academic excellence and its integration of teaching, research, and outreach activities. It is also recognized for its focus on social justice and community service. Students can choose from more than 100 courses within 20 different colleges at the University. U of T was founded by Upper Canadian graduates who believed that a university should be available to everyone regardless of class or wealth. The university began as a private institution but became publicly funded in 1965 when it was made possible by the Ontario government to grant autonomy to its universities. Today, U of T operates independently but remains closely linked to the provincial government via a president who is appointed by the minister of education.