Cleveland State University

Cleveland State University stands as a dynamic public research institution rooted in the heart of Cleveland, offering a rich history of academic innovation and community engagement. Evolving from the foundational efforts of the Cleveland YMCA in 1870 and later Fenn College, CSU officially became a state university in 1964, quickly growing into a significant academic force. Today, with over 13,000 students, it continues to honor its legacy as a commuter college while expanding its reach and impact through cutting-edge research and diverse academic programs.

The university's history is a testament to its commitment to public education. What began as free classes eventually transformed into Fenn College, which the State of Ohio acquired to establish Cleveland State University. This acquisition laid the groundwork for a comprehensive institution comprising colleges of engineering, business, arts and sciences, and education. Over the decades, CSU has steadily grown, adapting to the needs of its students and the community, culminating in its recent 60th anniversary celebration and the launch of the "Cleveland State United" vision for its future.

Academically, Cleveland State boasts robust offerings designed to prepare students for the challenges of tomorrow. Its Washkewicz College of Engineering continues the strong engineering tradition inherited from Fenn College, while the establishment of the CSU School of Film & Media Arts marks a significant milestone as Ohio's first standalone film school. Beyond these, the university fosters strong partnerships, including a vital collaboration with Northeast Ohio Medical University and an international partnership with South China University of Technology, offering students unique joint degree opportunities.

The student experience at CSU is shaped by its urban campus and commitment to accessible, high-quality education. While historically serving as a commuter institution, CSU now offers a blend of on-campus, hybrid, and remote learning options, ensuring flexibility for its diverse student body. The university's strategic initiatives, such as ending open admissions in the mid-2000s and focusing on elevating its national standing, reflect a dedication to academic excellence and a transformative impact on the lives of its students and the broader Cleveland community.