Marshall , Minnesota , United States
Total Students
National Ranking
The university was founded in 1964 as Southwest Minnesota State College (SMSC). It admitted its first class of students on September 19, 1967. The college became Southwest State University (SSU) on August 1, 1975, and kept that name for nearly thirty years until adopting the name Southwest Minnesota State University (SMSU) on July 1, 2003.
The student newspaper, originally called The Impact, was first published on May 10, 1968. The name was changed to The Reader in 1974, and then back to The Impact in 1980. In 2003 the name was changed to The Spur to be more consistent with the Mustang theme and to spur students into action.
The R/A (Recreation/Athletic) Facility was built in 1996 and is a 4,000-seat multi-purpose venue
On January 2, 2002, a fire destroyed the Student Center. The dome's concrete framework was incorporated into the new student and conference center and is still visible in the food court area. The new center was completed in 2005. It features a replica of the original dome with the words "Student Center Dome: 1972–2002" written on it at the Alumni Heritage Center, near the Mustang Zone in the upper level.
In 2005 SMSU developed the first bachelor's degree culinology program in the nation to be approved by the Research Chefs Association.
On September 6, 2008, the new Regional Event Center officially opened on the western edge of campus. The athletic field was named Mattke Field after the old field and in honor of past athletic director Glenn Mattke. The center is used by the Mustang football and soccer teams, as well as teams from Marshall High School, and for other regional activities, such as concerts. It took two years and $16 million to complete.
Our Mission
Southwest Minnesota State University prepares students to meet the complex challenges of this century as engaged citizens in their local and global communities. Our comprehensive degree programs, taught in the liberal arts tradition, are dedicated to connecting students’ academic and practical professional development experiences in southwestern Minnesota to the wider world.
Our Vision
SMSU aspires to be recognized throughout Minnesota and beyond for being an inclusive and student-centered university.
Our Values
We Value:
Discovery through innovative teaching, research, and other high-impact experiences.
Civic engagement and strategic partnerships.
Developing broadly educated and well-rounded leaders.
Our Leadership
Kumara Jayasuriya was appointed by the Minnesota State system and began his duties July 1, 2019. President Jayasuriya is the tenth permanent president of SMSU.
THE Ranking::
800
QS Ranking::
N/A
Type of Accommodation::
On Campus
Annual Cost of living:
12000 USD/ year
Average Annual UG Fee:
9470 USD
Average Annual PG Fee:
N/A
Application Fee:
20 USD