Last Updated on May 15, 2025 by Colby Droscher
The 1970s were a decade defined by change, and college campuses were at the forefront of that shift. As counterculture movements, political activism, and personal freedoms took center stage, university life became a vibrant mix of self-expression and rebellion. Students navigated a world in flux, from political protests to the rise of new music and technology, all while creating unforgettable memories.
From impromptu protests to quiet moments of study and connection, these photos reflect how college in the ’70s wasn’t just about academics; it was about shaping identity and finding purpose in an era of radical change. Here are 20 vintage photos of college life in the 1970s.
1. Students at Marymount College, 1971
These women were the sophomore class officers for the class of ’71.
2. Fraternity shenanigans, early ’70s
Whatever is being dumped on them, I don’t think it’s water.
3. College dudes, 1972
That’s the most subtle “Rock on” I’ve ever seen.
4. College computer class, 1972
It was common for the actual computer to be located in a different area, and to use a terminal that was connected through a phone line.
5. The Providence College Basketball yearbook, 1972
Yearbooks today are much more expensive than this.
6. “My dad in college, 1971”
The fu man chu, the leather boots, this man exuded swagger.
7. College girls, 1973
It was the best of times, and the worst of times.
8. Studying for finals as a team
These kids were from Saint Lawrence University in the late ’70s.
9. “My dad and his college roommate, 1977”
Evidently, his roommate was very into plants.
10. Arnold at night school in California, 1973
I feel bad for the person who sat behind him, there was no way they ever saw the chalkboard.
11. College Field Day, 1973
College field days were easily the best way to make new friends.
12. College outdoor program, 1973
There was a major where you took classes and went outside all day? I picked the wrong major.
13. Weird Al performing at an open-mic
This photo was taken at Cal Poly in 1977.
14. College photo from 1972
Bring back ’70s fashion.
15. Junior year of college, 1978
These boys are headed to their favorite bar to see The Crusaders.
16. Steve Carell performing improv, late ’70s
This photo was taken at Denison University.
17. John Prine, Georgia State, 1975
RIP to this legend.
18. Muhammad Ali visiting a college to speak
It looks like that girl’s heart is about to pop out of her chest.
19. Southern California students cruising, 1979
The only way to recruit for parties in the ’70s was word of mouth, and this.
20. George “The Iceman” Gervin
This photo was taken while he was at Eastern Michigan in 1971.
Want to see more content from the ’70s?
Check out 40 Vintage Photos of the Mid-1970s, or take a look at 21 Vintage Photos of 1960s-1970s Surf Culture. Finally, if you want to check out the ’70s disco era, take a look at 20 Vintage Photos of the 1970s Disco Era.
