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Ball State University

Muncie, IN

publicgraduate

Quick Facts

“"We Fly"”

1918
Founded
Public research university
Type
13,770
Total Students
14,874
Undergrad
5,566
Graduate
$411M
Endowment
(2024)
$11K
Tuition (In-State)
$29K
Tuition (Out-State)
$16K
Avg Net Price
72%
Acceptance Rate
63%
Graduation Rate
6-year
77%
Retention Rate
Doctoral Universities
Classification
President: Geoffrey Mearns

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Ball State University

Soaring to new heights in research and student success at Ball State University.

Ball State University, a dynamic public research institution nestled in Muncie, Indiana, empowers nearly 20,440 students to achieve their academic and professional aspirations. Known for its classification among "R2: Doctoral Universities – High research activity," Ball State offers a robust learning environment where innovation thrives. With its inspiring motto, "We Fly," the university encourages students to reach their full potential, providing a comprehensive education across 10 academic colleges.

The university's rich history began in 1918, when the visionary Ball brothers, prominent industrialists, donated the Indiana Normal Institute to the State of Indiana. This act of philanthropy laid the groundwork for what would become a cornerstone of education, initially established as the Indiana State Normal School – Eastern Division. Ball State's evolution from its foundational years as a teachers college into a comprehensive research university reflects a continuous commitment to expanding knowledge and serving a diverse student body.

Academically, Ball State excels by offering an impressive array of choices, including approximately 120 undergraduate majors, 130 minor areas of study, and over 100 master's, doctoral, certificate, and specialist degrees. This extensive curriculum ensures that prospective students can find pathways to match their passions and career goals, supported by dedicated academic staff. Beyond the classroom, the vibrant campus life, complemented by strong NCAA Division I athletics as the Ball State Cardinals, provides a holistic and engaging student experience.

Prospective students and families considering Ball State will discover a university deeply committed to fostering intellectual curiosity and preparing graduates for impactful careers. Its dedication to high research activity, combined with a supportive community and a rich legacy of educational innovation, makes Ball State University an exceptional place to learn, grow, and truly "fly."

Key Highlights

  • ✦Designated an "R2: Doctoral University – High research activity," emphasizing its commitment to impactful research.
  • ✦Founded in 1918 through the significant donation of the Ball brothers, marking a philanthropic legacy.
  • ✦Offers a comprehensive academic portfolio with approximately 120 undergraduate majors and over 100 graduate degrees across 10 academic colleges.
  • ✦Supports a thriving student body of approximately 20,440, including nearly 14,900 undergraduates.
  • ✦Home to the Ball State Cardinals, competing in NCAA Division I FBS as a proud member of the Mid-American Conference (MAC).
  • ✦Boasts an endowment of $0.4 billion, supporting its mission and future growth.
  • ✦Upholds the inspiring motto, "We Fly," reflecting its spirit of ambition and achievement.

Timeline

1899
Eastern Indiana Normal School established.
1902
Reopened as Palmer University.
1912
Reopened as Indiana Normal Institute.
1917
The Ball brothers acquired the Indiana Normal Institute.
1918
Indiana State Normal School – Eastern Division opened with the Ball brothers' donation.
1922
Renamed Ball Teachers College.
1929
Renamed Ball State Teachers College.
1961
Renamed Ball State College.
1965
Became Ball State University, reflecting its comprehensive mission.
🏛️
108 Years
of Excellence

Leadership

Geoffrey Mearns
President
Anand Marri
Provost

Data from Wikipedia – CC BY-SA 4.0

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