Nestled in the vibrant city of Fort Collins, Colorado State University (CSU) stands as a beacon of public education and groundbreaking research. As the flagship institution of the Colorado State University System and an "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity" powerhouse, CSU is renowned for its commitment to innovation, service, and academic excellence. With a robust offering of degrees across diverse fields, from its esteemed professional veterinary medicine program to cutting-edge engineering and liberal arts, students here engage with world-class faculty dedicated to pushing the boundaries of knowledge.
CSU's rich history began in 1870 as the Colorado Agricultural College, founded under the transformative Morrill Act. From its humble beginnings with the "Claim Shanty" and the first five students in 1879, the institution evolved dramatically. Early efforts by the local Grange and visionary leaders like Charles Ingersoll expanded its focus beyond core agriculture, incorporating engineering, animal science, and liberal arts. This journey of growth and adaptation led to several name changes, reflecting its ever-broadening academic scope and its enduring mission to serve the state and nation.
Today, CSU fosters a dynamic student experience for over 34,000 students. Beyond the classroom, a vibrant campus culture thrives with NCAA Division I athletics as the Colorado State Rams compete fiercely in the Mountain West Conference. Students have access to a wealth of clubs, fraternities, sororities, and a burgeoning arts scene, including a dedicated Conservatory of Music. The university's impressive research enterprise, with nearly half a billion dollars in annual R&D spending, provides unparalleled opportunities for discovery, while its alumni network boasts Olympic medalists, Nobel laureates, astronauts, and influential leaders.