University of Glasgow: 20 notable names who studied at University of Glasgow as it celebrates 575th birthday

The University was founded by the signing of a Papal Bull on 7th January 1451.

It left Rome the same day and arrived in Glasgow in June 1451, when it was proclaimed at Glasgow Cross that a university could open.

Teaching first began in the Chapter House at Glasgow Cathedral before moving to nearby Rottenrow and then to a site on High Street in the sixteenth century. In 1870 it moved again to its current site on Gilmorehill.

Its alumni include eight Nobel Laureates, three UK Prime Ministers, three First Ministers of Scotland, 10 Fellows of the Royal Society and 11 Fellows of the British Academy.

The University’s Principal and Vice Chancellor, Professor Andy Schofield, said: "The University of Glasgow is proud of all it has achieved across its 575-year history.

"Established for the people of our city, we have evolved from being the university for Glasgow, to the university for Glasgow and the world. Our international community of world-changers extends across continents and through centuries.

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“Today we invite everyone to join us in marking this remarkable anniversary. This milestone is not just about our past, it’s about the opportunities ahead and the impact we can make together.

"On behalf of our university community - students, alumni, colleagues, partners and friends - I am delighted to wish the University a very happy 575th birthday."

Here’s a list of 20 notable individuals who attended the University of Glasgow...