Colorado State University

Colorado State University Overview

Colorado State University (CSU) is a prestigious public research university located in Fort Collins, Colorado. It is the flagship institution of the Colorado State University System and has a rich history dating back to its establishment as the Colorado Agricultural College in 1870. Later, it was known as the Colorado State College of Agriculture and Mechanic Arts before adopting its current name in 1957.

CSU offers a diverse array of academic programs, with bachelor's degrees offered in 65 fields, master's degrees in 55 fields, and doctoral degrees in 40 fields, including a professional degree in veterinary medicine. The university boasts several notable facilities on its campus, such as the Engines and Energy Conversion Laboratory, the University Center for the Arts, housing the Avenir Museum of Design and Merchandising and the Gregory Allicar Museum of Art, as well as the James L. Voss Veterinary Teaching Hospital and the Cooperative Institute for Research in the Atmosphere (CIRA).

The university's athletic teams, known as the Colorado State Rams, actively participate in NCAA Division I sports within the Mountain West Conference. CSU has produced numerous accomplished alumni, including Olympic gold medalist Amy Van Dyken, Pulitzer Prize winners, astronauts, CEOs, and former governors of Colorado. It is dedicated to research and development, investing a substantial amount, $447.2 million, in fiscal year 2021 in these endeavors.

Despite facing challenges in its early days due to financial constraints, Colorado State University has experienced remarkable growth since its inception. In 1878, the completion of its first main building, Old Main, marked the beginning of its educational journey, with the university welcoming its first batch of students in 1879, initially focusing on preparatory courses and agriculture-related subjects.

Charles Ingersoll, a former faculty member at Michigan State Agricultural College, played a pivotal role as the university's president, overseeing significant expansion during his nine-year tenure, including an increase in both faculty and student numbers, with 24 female students among the total of 67.

Today, Colorado State University remains at the forefront of research, education, and the production of accomplished graduates in various fields, solidifying its position as a leading institution in the academic landscape.