University of Minnesota – Full Review

Overview

The University of Minnesota, commonly referred to as U of M, is a public research university located in Minneapolis and Saint Paul, Minnesota. It is the flagship institution of the University of Minnesota system and one of the largest universities in the United States. U of M offers undergraduate, graduate, and professional degree programs in a variety of fields, including engineering, business, education, medicine, law, and agriculture.

History

U of M was founded in 1851 as a preparatory school for students planning to attend college. It became a university in 1869 and has since grown to become one of the top research universities in the United States. Many notable figures, including Nobel Prize winners and MacArthur Genius Grant recipients, have called U of M home over the years.

Organization

U of M is divided into five main campuses, with the Twin Cities campus in Minneapolis and Saint Paul being the largest and most well-known. The other campuses include Crookston, Duluth, Morris, and Rochester. The university also has satellite campuses in various locations throughout the Twin Cities metro area.

Campus

The Twin Cities campus is spread over 2,730 acres and features a mix of historic and modern architecture. Highlights of the campus include the Weisman Art Museum, TCF Bank Stadium (home of the Gopher football team), and the Frederick R. Weisman Art Museum. The campus is also known for its beautiful natural surroundings, such as the Mississippi River, which runs through the heart of campus.

Academics

U of M offers over 150 undergraduate degree programs, as well as 200 graduate and professional degree programs. The university is particularly well-known for its research programs, with more than $900 million in research expenditures each year. U of M is also a member of the Association of American Universities, a prestigious group of research universities in the United States.

Colleges and Schools

U of M is organized into 19 colleges and schools, including the College of Liberal Arts, College of Science and Engineering, College of Education and Human Development, Carlson School of Management, and the Law School. These colleges and schools offer a wide range of degree programs across a variety of disciplines.

Student Life

More than 50,000 students attend U of M each year, making it one of the largest universities in the country. There are over 800 student organizations on campus, covering a wide range of interests and hobbies. Additionally, U of M has a strong Greek life presence, with over 50 fraternities and sororities on campus.

Athletics

U of M has a strong athletics program, with 25 varsity teams competing in the NCAA Division I Big Ten Conference. The university’s most popular sports include football, basketball, hockey, and volleyball. The Gophers have won numerous conference championships and national titles over the years.

Notable Alumni

U of M has produced a number of notable alumni over the years, including former Vice President Walter Mondale, Nobel Prize-winning economist Milton Friedman, and actress Loni Anderson. Other notable alumni include astronaut Peggy Whitson, football coach Tony Dungy, and musician Bob Dylan.

University Profile

Overall, the University of Minnesota is a world-renowned institution with a long and storied history. With its strong academics, active student life, and top-notch athletics program, U of M is a great choice for students who want a well-rounded college experience.