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Lake Superior State University

Sault Ste Marie, MI

publicbachelors

Quick Facts

1,391
Total Students
$14K
Tuition (In-State)
$14K
Tuition (Out-State)
$14K
Avg Net Price
68%
Acceptance Rate
57%
Graduation Rate
6-year
69%
Retention Rate
Baccalaureate Colleges
Classification

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

About Lake Superior State University

Discover a unique cross-border education at Lake Superior State University.

Lake Superior State University (LSSU), affectionately known as "Lake State" or "Soo Tech," offers a truly distinctive educational experience in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan. With approximately 1,600 students, LSSU prides itself on its strong connection to its international neighbor, Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, Canada. This unique proximity means you'll find both Canadian and United States flags flying proudly on campus, reflecting its many Canadian students and joint programs with Sault College and Algoma University. LSSU is also notable as one of only three Michigan public colleges that also functions as a community college, providing diverse pathways through bachelor's, associate degrees, and various certificates.

The campus itself is steeped in history, residing on the former grounds of Fort Brady, which operated from 1894 to 1944. Many of its 115 acres feature buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places, offering a rich backdrop to modern learning. Established in 1946, LSSU initially served returning World War II veterans and the residents of the Eastern Upper Peninsula, starting as a branch of what is now Michigan Technological University.

Over the decades, the institution evolved, gaining autonomy in 1970 and finally achieving university status in 1987. Today, LSSU continues its mission to "Believe in Blue" and "Redefine the Classroom," fostering a vibrant community where students can pursue their academic goals within a supportive environment. The university's commitment to community extends through its regional centers in northern Michigan, further broadening access to its quality education.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1946, initially to support World War II veterans and the Eastern Upper Peninsula.
  • Unique location on the Canada-U.S. border, offering joint programs with Canadian institutions and flying both national flags on campus.
  • One of only three Michigan public colleges that also functions as a community college.
  • Enrollment of 1,669 students (Fall 2023) supported by 115 full-time academic staff.
  • Historic 115-acre campus, formerly Fort Brady (1894-1944), featuring several buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
  • Boasts an endowment of US$28.6 million.
  • Offers a range of bachelor's, associate degrees, and certificates, with regional centers in northern Michigan.

Timeline

1894
The area that would become the campus begins service as Fort Brady.
1944
Fort Brady's operations conclude on the campus site.
1946
Established as Sault Ste. Marie Residence Center of the Michigan College of Mining & Technology, enrolling 272 students.
1966
Renamed Lake Superior State College of Michigan Technological University.
1970
Achieved autonomy, becoming Lake Superior State College.
1987
Granted university status and became Lake Superior State University.

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