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University of Memphis

Memphis, TN

publicgraduate

Quick Facts

Wikipedia
Public research university
Type
13,645
Total Students
$413M
Endowment
(2025)
$10K
Tuition (In-State)
$15K
Tuition (Out-State)
$13K
Avg Net Price
93%
Acceptance Rate
49%
Graduation Rate
6-year
71%
Retention Rate
Doctoral Universities
Classification
President: Bill Hardgrave

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

About University of Memphis

A dynamic R1 research university driving innovation and opportunity in the heart of Memphis.

The University of Memphis (UofM), a prominent public research institution in Memphis, Tennessee, stands as a cornerstone of education and discovery in the region. With an enrollment exceeding 20,000 students, UofM is classified among "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very High research activity," signifying its commitment to groundbreaking research and academic excellence across a broad spectrum of disciplines. Its enduring motto, Latin for "To imagine, to think, to do," encapsulates the university's vibrant spirit of inquiry and action.

Established on September 10, 1912, as the West Tennessee State Normal School, the university has undergone several transformations, reflecting its growth and evolving mission, including stints as Memphis State College and Memphis State University. A pivotal moment in its history occurred in 1959 with the admission of the "Memphis State Eight," the first Black students to attend, marking a significant step toward integration and social change in the South. This courageous act underscores UofM's historical role in shaping a more inclusive educational landscape.

Today, the University of Memphis boasts a diverse array of academic strengths, housing esteemed entities such as the Herff College of Engineering, the Center for Earthquake Research and Information (CERI), and the FedEx Institute of Technology, among others. Its Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law, renowned for its state-of-the-art downtown campus, offers a competitive legal education within proximity to the city's judicial and financial hubs. UofM continually strives to provide a comprehensive and impactful education, preparing students for successful futures.

Prospective students will find a vibrant campus spanning 1,160 acres, deeply integrated into the cultural and economic life of Memphis. With an endowment of over $400 million, the university provides substantial resources for its academic programs, research initiatives, and student support. Whether engaging in cutting-edge research or participating in the spirited "Tigers" athletics, students at UofM are part of a dynamic community dedicated to learning, discovery, and making a tangible difference.

Key Highlights

  • Designated as an "R1: Doctoral University – Very High research activity" institution.
  • Enrollment of over 20,000 students, fostering a diverse academic community.
  • Endowment of $413 million (2025), supporting extensive academic and research initiatives.
  • Home to the renowned Herff College of Engineering and the FedEx Institute of Technology.
  • Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law features a state-of-the-art campus in downtown Memphis.
  • Historic role in civil rights, admitting the "Memphis State Eight" in 1959 as its first Black students.
  • Motto: "To imagine, to think, to do" (Latin: Imaginari cogitare facere).

Timeline

1909
Tennessee Legislature enacts General Education Bill; earlier University of Memphis formed.
1912
West Tennessee State Normal School opened in Memphis.
1925
Name changed to West Tennessee State Teachers College.
1941
Name changed to Memphis State College.
1957
Received full university status and changed name to Memphis State University.
1959
Admitted its first Black students, known as the "Memphis State Eight."
1966
Began awarding doctoral degrees.
1994
Memphis State University changed its name to the University of Memphis.
2001
Installed its first female president, Shirley Raines.
2010
Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law relocated to newly renovated downtown campus.
2020
Shifted to online classes due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Schools & Colleges

10 notable schools within University of Memphis

⚙️

Herff College of Engineering

A key college within the university offering engineering programs.

🏫

Center for Earthquake Research and Information (CERI)

A specialized research center focusing on earthquake studies.

⚖️

Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law

The university's law school, relocated to a renovated downtown campus in 2010, consistently ranked among top facilities.

🔬

School of Communication Sciences and Disorders

A school focusing on communication sciences and disorders.

💉

Loewenberg College of Nursing

The college of nursing, providing comprehensive nursing education.

🏛️

School of Public Health

A school dedicated to public health education and research.

🎭

College of Communication and Fine Arts

A college offering programs in communication and fine arts.

🏫

FedEx Institute of Technology

An institute focused on technological research and innovation.

🏫

Advanced Distributed Learning Workforce Co-Lab

A co-lab focusing on advanced distributed learning for workforce development.

🏫

Institute of Egyptian Art and Archaeology

An institute dedicated to the study of Egyptian art and archaeology.

Leadership

via Wikipedia

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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