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Minnesota State University Moorhead

Moorhead, MN

publicgraduate

Quick Facts

“Sacrifice, Service, Loyalty”

1887
Founded
Public university
Type
3,120
Total Students
$29M
Endowment
(2019)
$10K
Tuition (In-State)
$10K
Tuition (Out-State)
$18K
Avg Net Price
53%
Acceptance Rate
55%
Graduation Rate
6-year
72%
Retention Rate
Master's Colleges & Universities
Classification
President: Timothy Downs

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

About Minnesota State University Moorhead

MSUM: Where a rich history meets a vibrant, collaborative academic future.

Minnesota State University Moorhead (MSUM) stands as a dynamic public university with a rich history rooted in service and innovation. Known for its strong liberal arts tradition alongside robust professional programs, MSUM offers an engaging academic experience designed to prepare students for success. A standout feature of the MSUM experience is its participation in the Tri-College University, allowing students to cross-register for courses at neighboring Concordia College and North Dakota State University, enriching their academic journey and broadening their horizons.

The university's journey began in 1887 as the Moorhead Normal School, established to meet the Red River Valley's educational needs, thanks to the vision of State Senator Solomon Comstock. Over the decades, MSUM continuously evolved, transforming from a teachers college in 1921—offering its first four-year Bachelor of Science degree—to Moorhead State College in 1957, reflecting a broadened curriculum including liberal arts and graduate programs. This progressive expansion culminated in university status in 1975, solidifying its role as a comprehensive institution.

Today, Minnesota State University Moorhead proudly offers a diverse array of Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science, and graduate programs, reflecting its commitment to academic excellence. Its dedication to fostering well-rounded graduates has been recognized, notably by TIME magazine, which rated MSUM as the 18th top liberal arts college in the Midwest in 2008. With a student body of 4,679, MSUM continues to be a vital educational hub, dedicated to the motto "Sacrifice, Service, Loyalty" under the leadership of President Timothy Downs.

Key Highlights

  • ✦Founded in 1887, MSUM boasts a legacy of over a century in higher education.
  • ✦A vibrant public university currently serving 4,679 students.
  • ✦Part of the Tri-College University, offering unique cross-registration opportunities with Concordia College and North Dakota State University.
  • ✦Rated the 18th top liberal arts college in the Midwest by TIME magazine in 2008.
  • ✦Offers a comprehensive range of Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science, and graduate degree programs.
  • ✦Evolved from a normal school to a full-fledged university, consistently adapting to educational needs.

Timeline

1885
Minnesota State Legislature passed a bill declaring the need for a new state normal school in Moorhead.
1888
Moorhead Normal School opened.
1921
Authorized to offer a four-year Bachelor of Science degree; became Moorhead State Teachers College.
1946
Began offering a Bachelor of Arts degree.
1953
Began offering graduate programs.
1957
Name changed to Moorhead State College to reflect broadened offerings.
1969
Joined the cooperative cross-registration exchange, forming the Tri-College University.
1975
Granted university status by the State Legislature; became Moorhead State University.
1995
Became part of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system.
2000
Renamed Minnesota State University Moorhead.
🏛️
139 Years
of Excellence

Leadership

Timothy Downs
President
Arrick Jackson
Provost

Data from Wikipedia – CC BY-SA 4.0

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