New Mexico State University-Main Campus

New Mexico State University (NMSU), also known as NM State, stands as the oldest public institution of higher education in the state, a public, land-grant, research university with a rich history rooted in service and innovation. Located in the vibrant Las Cruces area, NMSU is celebrated for its dynamic academic environment and its commitment to impactful research, earning an "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very High Research Activity" designation. As the original land-grant university in the region, NMSU extends its reach far beyond its main campus, with satellite campuses and a Cooperative Extension Service that serves all 33 counties in New Mexico, truly embodying its statewide mission.

The university's journey began on September 17, 1888, when Hiram Hadley founded Las Cruces College. Just a year later, the Territorial Assembly of New Mexico cemented its future, designating it as the state's land-grant college under the Morrill Act. This pivotal moment led to its renaming as the New Mexico College of Agriculture and Mechanic Arts, a name it held until 1960 when it evolved into New Mexico State University to better reflect its comprehensive academic offerings and expanded operations. From a modest beginning with 35 students and six faculty members in 1890, NMSU has grown into a cornerstone of education, research, and community engagement for the entire state.

Academically, NMSU is a powerhouse, offering an impressive array of over 180 degree programs, including 28 doctoral, 58 master's, and 96 baccalaureate options, ensuring diverse opportunities for intellectual growth. Its status as a lead institute for the New Mexico National Space Grant Consortium highlights its cutting-edge contributions to science and exploration. Students thrive in an engaging academic setting supported by a favorable faculty-to-student ratio of approximately 1:16. Beyond academics, the Aggies, NMSU's athletic teams, compete fiercely at the NCAA Division I level in Conference USA, fostering a spirited campus experience on its expansive 900-acre main campus.