摘要：The article examines the role of National University named after P.I. Makushin in the educational system of Tomsk at the beginning of the 20th century. The article based on educational legal acts, the regulations of National Universities, annual proceedings dedicated to P.I. Makushin, as well as social and political journalism. In the first place, the National University was analyzed as a phenomenon. The authors have analyzed the history of private higher education, the history of transition from private classes to a special educational organization. The authors have emphasized the goals and project of National University in comparison to the actual situation in educational process. It has been revealed that the phenomenon of National University can be considered as an alternative to the state educational institutions of higher education and as a new phenomenon of urban culture. It has been revealed that despite the fact that educational goals have not been achieved in its entirety, the National University has had a significant impact on the development of educational system and cultural life of Tomsk. The National University became truly National since its lecture rooms were open not only for privileged, but for lowborn classes. The students could attend training sessions, as well as libraries, laboratories, exhibitions. As a result the National University has a significant impact in the cultural life of Tomsk.
