University of Missouri

University of Missouri Overview

The University of Missouri (Mizzou or MU) is a renowned public land-grant research university located in Columbia, Missouri. Established in 1839, it holds the distinction of being the first public university situated west of the Mississippi River. As Missouri's largest university and the flagship of the four-campus University of Missouri System, MU is a prominent member of the Association of American Universities, showcasing its academic excellence. It has earned the prestigious classification of "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very High Research Activity."

With an enrollment of around 31,401 students in 2021, the university offers an extensive array of over 300 degree programs across thirteen major academic divisions. Notably, the Missouri School of Journalism, founded by Walter Williams in 1908, stands as the world's first journalism school. It is renowned for publishing the daily newspaper, the Columbia Missourian, and operating the NBC affiliate KOMU. The University of Missouri Research Reactor Center is a notable entity, being the exclusive source of isotopes used in nuclear medicine within the United States. The university also administers the University of Missouri Health Care, overseeing a network of hospitals and clinics in Mid-Missouri.

Sporting NCAA Division I teams known as the Missouri Tigers, MU takes part in the Southeastern Conference. Moreover, MU claims the origin of the American tradition of homecoming. The institution's remarkable alumni, faculty, and staff have achieved remarkable milestones, including 18 Rhodes Scholars, 19 Truman Scholars, 141 Fulbright Scholars, 7 Governors of Missouri, and 6 members of the U.S. Congress. Notably, two alumni and faculty members have been awarded Nobel Prizes: alumnus Frederick Chapman Robbins won the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1954, and George Smith (chemist) received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 2018 while affiliated with the university.

The University of Missouri's rich history dates back to 1839 when the Missouri Legislature passed the Geyer Act to fund the establishment of a state university. Positioned as the first public university west of the Mississippi River, it secured the support of Columbia and Boone County residents who pledged resources for its establishment. The university's location, south of Columbia's downtown, was chosen, and the institution was shaped by Thomas Jefferson's vision of public education.

Through significant historical periods, including the American Civil War and the post-war era, the university demonstrated resilience and community commitment. In 1870, it gained land-grant college status under the Morrill Act of 1862, giving rise to the Missouri School of Mines and Metallurgy. Over time, the university expanded its offerings, encompassing various colleges and schools covering diverse disciplines.