Minnesota State University-Mankato

Minnesota State University, Mankato, stands proudly as Minnesota's second-largest university and a flagship institution within the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system. With a vibrant community of over 15,251 students (Fall 2024) and a global network of over 145,000 living alumni, MSU Mankato is a powerhouse of education and opportunity. Guided by its motto "Big Ideas. Real-world Thinking.," the university prepares students for impactful careers through a diverse array of programs and a forward-thinking approach to learning.

Established in 1868 as the "Second State Normal School" and officially opening as "Mankato Normal School," the institution began with a vital mission: to educate teachers for rural southern Minnesota. This pioneering spirit continued as it became the first public college in the U.S. to be headed by a woman, suffragette Julia Sears, in 1872—an event commemorated by a residence hall and a commission on women's advancement. Its rich history of evolution through various names reflects a continuous adaptation to the changing needs of higher education, ultimately becoming Minnesota State University, Mankato in 1998.

Academically, Minnesota State University, Mankato offers an impressive breadth of study across seven colleges and schools. Students can choose from over 130 undergraduate programs, more than 80 master's programs, and 4 doctoral programs. The university extends its reach through satellite campuses in Edina and Owatonna, and online bachelor's degrees via the College of Extended Learning. A significant recent development is its partnership with Saint Paul College to launch the Minnesota Polytechnic and Applied Learning Institute (MinnPoly) in 2023, establishing Minnesota's first polytechnic institute and underscoring its dedication to applied learning.

Beyond academics, the student experience at MSU Mankato is dynamic. Home of the Purple and Gold Mavericks, the university boasts 21 intercollegiate sports teams. While most compete at the NCAA Division II level in the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference, its men's and women's ice hockey teams proudly compete in NCAA Division I, bringing a high level of athletic excitement to campus. The lively atmosphere, combined with rigorous academics and a strong focus on real-world application, makes MSU Mankato an engaging place to learn and grow.