Martin Luther College

Nestled on a scenic bluff overlooking the Minnesota River in New Ulm, Martin Luther College (MLC) stands as a unique institution with a distinct mission. Established in 1995 through the merger of Northwestern College and Dr. Martin Luther College, MLC is proudly operated by the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod (WELS). Its primary purpose is to train men and women for service within the WELS, preparing dedicated individuals for roles as pastors, teachers, and staff ministers across synod churches, schools, and missions.

MLC's academic strengths are deeply rooted in its specialized mission. The college offers a range of undergraduate and graduate degree programs, all meticulously designed to equip students for their future service. Men pursuing pastoral ministry embark on a robust pre-seminary program, paving their way to Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary. Meanwhile, both men and women dedicated to teaching or staff ministry benefit from comprehensive education programs, ensuring they are well-prepared to make a significant impact in their assigned roles within the WELS.

Life at MLC extends beyond the classroom, fostering a vibrant student experience within its 88-acre campus. Students can admire the historic Gothic Revival-inspired Old Main building, a designated National Register of Historic Places site, and find spiritual solace in the 38,000-square-foot Chapel of the Christ. The campus, with its small-town feel and proximity to the Hermann Heights Monument, offers a supportive and close-knit community. Athletically, the MLC Knights compete in 16 varsity sports at the NCAA Division III level, fostering teamwork and spirit as members of the Upper Midwest Athletic Conference.

With a student body of 860 (as of Fall 2019), MLC maintains a focused environment where faith and education are intertwined. The college’s motto, "Via Veritas Vita" (The Way, the Truth, the Life), encapsulates its commitment to guiding students not just academically, but spiritually, as they prepare for a lifetime of dedicated service within the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod.