Minnesota State University, Mankato is where tireless thought and innovative research bring real solutions to real needs. 

ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE
The University's environment of big ideas coupled with real-world thinking equip Minnesota State Mankato students to go well beyond expectations and into exciting, rewarding futures.

CUTTING-EDGE RESEARCH
A growing international reputation for breakthrough research distinguishes the University, as does the unique quality of life that marks the proud community of greater Mankato.

PROUD COMMUNITY
Greater Mankato includes the communities of Mankato and North Mankato, which are located in the scenic Minnesota River valley approximately 80 miles southwest of Minneapolis-St. Paul.

History of the University
From its founding in 1868 as Mankato Normal School, this has been an institution where big ideas meet real-world thinking.

1868
Mankato Normal School opened as the state's second teacher training school in downtown Mankato with 27 students. Tuition was free in return for a student's pledge to teach two years in Minnesota's schools.

1870
Old Main was constructed and this marked the beginning of the Valley Campus that would serve the institution for a century.

In the 1880s, the school expanded and curriculum grew.

1921
The school became Mankato State Teachers College.

1927
The institution awarded its first four–year degree, a bachelor of education.

1957
The school was renamed Mankato State College to reflect an expanded curriculum, and construction began on the Highland Campus. The College maintained two locations for several years.

1975
The college received full university status. Four years later consolidation on the Highland Campus was complete.

1998
For the fifth time in its history, the University adopted a new name to reflect expanded service to Minnesota and the nation. Minnesota State University, Mankato continues to gain renown for the quality of its programs and breadth of service.

TODAY
The University offers more than 130 programs in six undergraduate colleges. The College of Graduate Studies and Research offers over 85 master's, advanced certificate and doctoral programs.

Student life is vibrant with more than 200 recognized department clubs, political organizations, recreation clubs, intramural athletics, social clubs, service and religious organizations. First–year students get off to a strong start with the support of New Student and Family Programs, and some take advantage of residential Learning Communities where students who share a major live on the same residence community floors and take classes together.

The University offers 20 intercollegiate men's and women's sports, including hockey, volleyball, soccer, softball, tennis, golf, swimming and diving, football, cross-country, basketball, track and field, wrestling, and baseball.

Minnesota State Mankato has embraced strategic priorities which are focused, achievable, and exciting. Results include our status as a doctoral institution and action toward becoming an increasingly inclusive and welcoming campus. This growth is the latest in our unending push to deliver education beyond what students expect – the kind of learning that transforms students' lives, allows them to realize dreams and makes them a driving force in changing our world for the better.