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Utah Tech University

Saint George, UT

publicgraduate

Quick Facts

Active Learning, Active Life

1911
Founded
Public university
Type
8,320
Total Students
12,481
Undergrad
75
Graduate
$40M
Endowment
(2025)
$6K
Tuition (In-State)
$18K
Tuition (Out-State)
$15K
Avg Net Price
34%
Graduation Rate
6-year
63%
Retention Rate
Baccalaureate Colleges
Classification
President: Shane B. Smeed

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

About Utah Tech University

Utah Tech: Where active learning meets vibrant life in a polytechnic environment.

Nestled in the picturesque landscape of St. George, Utah, Utah Tech University stands as a dynamic public polytechnic institution committed to its motto: "Active Learning, Active Life." With a diverse student body exceeding 12,500, UT provides a comprehensive educational experience, ranging from certifications and associate degrees to robust bachelor's, master's, and even doctoral programs. Its recent reclassification to NCAA Division I athletics has further invigorated campus spirit, making it an exciting destination for prospective students seeking both academic rigor and a lively community.

The university's journey began in 1911 as the St. George Stake Academy, born from the vision of the LDS Church and its local community. A testament to local resilience, the institution was sustained by community donations and labor during the Great Depression, eventually becoming a state-funded school in 1935. Over the decades, it evolved through various names—including Dixie Junior College, Dixie College, and Dixie State University—each reflecting its growth and expanding academic offerings, eventually empowering it to award bachelor's degrees and achieve university status.

The transition to Utah Tech University in 2022 marked a significant new chapter, reflecting a forward-looking identity after extensive community discussions regarding its former name. This renaming underscores the university's commitment to innovation and technology while honoring its deep historical roots in a region affectionately known as "Utah's Dixie." Today, Utah Tech champions a modern identity that aligns with its polytechnic mission.

For students and families, Utah Tech offers a unique blend of academic challenge and unparalleled lifestyle opportunities. Beyond the diverse academic programs, students can immerse themselves in a vibrant campus culture, cheering on the Division I Trailblazers in the Western Athletic Conference. With a campus-wide tobacco ban in effect since 2014, UT is dedicated to fostering a healthy and engaging environment where active learning truly intertwines with an active life amidst the stunning natural beauty of Southern Utah.

Key Highlights

  • Established in 1911, celebrating over a century of educational tradition and evolution.
  • A thriving public university with 12,556 students as of Fall 2022.
  • Offers a wide spectrum of degrees, including doctoral, master's, bachelor's, associate, and various certifications.
  • Distinguished by its polytechnic focus and the inspiring motto: "Active Learning, Active Life."
  • Home to the NCAA Division I "Trailblazers" athletics, competing in the Western Athletic Conference.
  • Located in the scenic city of St. George, Utah, providing ample outdoor and community engagement opportunities.
  • Maintains a campus-wide tobacco ban, implemented in 2014, to promote a healthy environment.

Timeline

1911
Founded as St. George Stake Academy by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
1913
Renamed Dixie Academy.
1923
Became Dixie Junior College.
1935
Became a state school under the Utah System of Higher Education.
1970
Renamed Dixie College, signifying its expansion to offer four-year bachelor's degrees.
2013
Achieved university status and was named Dixie State University.
2014
Implemented a campus-wide tobacco ban.
2016
Athletic teams rebranded as the "Trailblazers" with "Brooks the Bison" as the mascot.
2019
Reclassified from NCAA Division II to Division I athletics.
2022
Renamed Utah Tech University, effective July 1.
🏛️
115 Years
of Excellence

Leadership

Shane B. Smeed
President

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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