University of Wisconsin-Madison's Education and Research Firsts

Nation's First Scandinavian Studies Department

1875

In 1875, the University of Wisconsin set the innovative tone by creating the first Scandinavian Studies Department in the United States.

Nation's First Genetics Department

1910

In 1910, the University of Wisconsin continued their academic innovation, this time in a field of science, by creating the United States' first Genetic Studies Department.

Discovery of Vitamin A and B

1913

In 1913, a University of Wisconsin research team discovered Vitamin A. In 1916, that same team, still being funded by the University of Wisconsin, discovered Vitamin B, establishing Wisconsin as a premiere research University.

First University Dance Program

1926

In 1926, the University of Wisconsin further established itself as an innovative educational institution by creating the nation's first University dance program. This development illustrated the Universities commitment to the arts and new educational methods.

Discovery of Methods to Iodize Salt

1930

Throughout the 1930's, a University of Wisconsin-Madison research team developed methods to iodize salt in order to prevent iodine deficiency. This discovery is something we may take for granted today, but was groundbreaking in it's time.

First University Department of Wildlife Management

1939

In 1939, the University of Wisconsin further grew their academic breadth with the development of the nation's first Department of Wildlife Management. This demonstrated the University's commitment to the environment, which is still an important aspect of the University's identity

First Bone Marrow Transplant

1968

In 1968, the University of Wisconsin demonstrated their innovative research and competence in medicine by completing the first bone marrow transplant. This operation is now necessary part of treatment for a number of illnesses.

Nation's First Stem Cell Bank

2005

In 2005, the University of Wisconsin created the nations first Stem Cell Bank, demonstrating their commitment to cutting edge research.

First Master's Program in Energy Conservation

2014

In 2014, the University of Wisconsin demonstrated once again their commitment to the environment through the creation of the nation's first master's program in Energy Conservation. This development of the learning experience at UW recommitted the University to environmental research.

First Endowed Fellowship in Feminist Biology

2014

In 2014, the University once again demonstrated their commitment to innovative research by funding the nation's first fellowship in Feminist Biology, a field that attempts to uncover and reverse gender bias within biology. Beside this text is picture of Janet Hyde, the women who spearheaded the development of the fellowship