Central Michigan University

Mount Pleasant, MI

publicgraduate

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Quick Facts

9,916

Total Students

$14K

Tuition (In-State)

$14K

Tuition (Out-State)

$16K

Avg Net Price

91%

Acceptance Rate

62%

Graduation Rate

6-year

74%

Retention Rate

Doctoral Universities

Classification

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

About Central Michigan University

Discover Central Michigan University: A dynamic R2 research institution fostering wisdom, virtue, and friendship.

Central Michigan University (CMU) stands as a prominent public research institution nestled in Mount Pleasant, Michigan. Known for its classification among "R2: Doctoral Universities – High research activity," CMU offers a vibrant academic environment for over 14,000 students. Embodying its motto, "Sapientia, Virtus, Amicitia" (Wisdom, Virtue, Friendship), the university provides a wide array of opportunities across its 200 academic programs, spanning undergraduate, master's, specialist, and doctoral levels.

CMU's rich history began in 1892 as the Central Michigan Normal School and Business Institute, a private endeavor led by founding principal Charles F. R. Bellows. Quickly gaining recognition, it transitioned into a state institution in 1895, becoming the Central Michigan Normal School. The university’s growth and evolving academic complexity were formally recognized in 1959 when it was officially renamed Central Michigan University. A significant milestone in its modern history was the opening of its medical school in 2010, established to address critical healthcare needs, particularly in rural areas.

For prospective students and families, CMU offers a compelling combination of rigorous academics and a lively campus experience. Students benefit from the university's high research activity and diverse program offerings, ensuring a breadth of study options. Beyond the classroom, the Central Michigan Chippewas ignite campus spirit, competing fiercely in the NCAA Division I Mid-American Conference in a wide range of men's and women's sports. CMU is a place where educational excellence meets a commitment to community and a vibrant student life.

Key Highlights

✦Classified as an R2: Doctoral University – High research activity, signifying robust research endeavors.
✦Offers a comprehensive array of 200 academic programs across undergraduate, master's, specialist, and doctoral levels.
✦Serves a vibrant student body of over 14,400 students as of Fall 2023.
✦Established in 1892, boasting over 130 years of educational heritage and evolution.
✦Supported by a substantial endowment of $265.36 million as of 2024.
✦Features NCAA Division I athletics, with the Central Michigan Chippewas competing in the Mid-American Conference.
✦Opened its medical school in 2010, specifically designed to address the need for doctors in rural communities.

Timeline

1892

Established as the Central Michigan Normal School and Business Institute.

1893

The original Main Building, planned by founding principal Charles F. R. Bellows, opened.

1895

The Michigan State Board of Education assumed control, renaming it Central Michigan Normal School.

1900

The Conservatory for Music, organized by Principal Bellows, was incorporated into the Normal.

1959

Renamed Central Michigan University, reflecting a significant expansion in academic offerings and physical growth.

2010

Opened its medical school, addressing the need for doctors to practice in rural areas.

Schools & Colleges

1 notable schools within Central Michigan University

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CMU's Medical School

Established in 2010 to address the need for doctors to practice in rural areas.

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