Saginaw Valley State University

University Center, MI

publicgraduate

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Quick Facts

6,004

Total Students

$12K

Tuition (In-State)

$29K

Tuition (Out-State)

$15K

Avg Net Price

73%

Acceptance Rate

54%

Graduation Rate

6-year

75%

Retention Rate

Master's Colleges & Universities

Classification

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

About Saginaw Valley State University

From humble beginnings to a vital state university, SVSU anchors higher education in the Saginaw Valley.

Saginaw Valley State University (SVSU) stands as a testament to regional ambition, evolving from a private institution to a thriving state university. Founded in 1963 as Saginaw Valley College, it filled a critical need for a four-year baccalaureate institution in the Saginaw Valley region, building upon the legacy of earlier junior colleges. Its journey from a small, private liberal arts college operating out of Delta College's basement to a fully accredited state university highlights its foundational commitment to accessible higher education.

SVSU's early days saw a rapid transformation, becoming state-supported in 1965 and earning full accreditation by 1970. This growth laid the groundwork for a comprehensive academic environment designed to prepare students for diverse professional paths. The university's commitment to student development is also evident in its vibrant campus life, including its athletic teams, the Cardinals, which joined the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference as a charter member in 1972.

Today, Saginaw Valley State University offers a robust educational experience for prospective students and families. While the initial focus was on liberal arts, its evolution into a university has broadened its academic scope. Students benefit from a rich history of growth and a forward-looking approach to education, fostering a dynamic learning environment where they can pursue their academic and career aspirations. The move to a permanent campus in Kochville Township in 1966 marked a significant step in establishing SVSU's identity, providing dedicated facilities for its expanding student body.

Key Highlights

✦Established as Saginaw Valley College in 1963 to address the region's need for a four-year institution.
✦Became a state-supported institution in 1965, expanding access to higher education.
✦Achieved full accreditation by the North Central Association in April 1970, ensuring academic quality.
✦Evolved from Saginaw Valley College to Saginaw Valley State College (1974) and then to Saginaw Valley State University (1987).
✦First class consisted of 119 students, transferring after two years at Delta College.
✦Charter member of the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference in 1972, enhancing student experience.
✦Moved to its permanent campus in Kochville Township in 1967, facilitating significant growth and development.

Timeline

1922

Bay City Junior College founded, setting an early precedent for higher education in the region.

1961

Delta College replaced Bay City Junior College, but the area still lacked a four-year institution.

1963

Saginaw Valley College (SVC) founded as a private, four-year liberal arts institution.

1965

Saginaw Valley College became a state-supported institution.

1966

First commencement ceremony held for a graduating class of ten; site chosen for permanent campus in Kochville Township.

1967

Classes moved to a building on the new permanent campus site.

1970

Saginaw Valley College received full accreditation by the North Central Association.

1972

The Cardinals athletic teams became a charter member of the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference.

1974

Name changed to Saginaw Valley State College.

1987

Name changed again to Saginaw Valley State University.

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