Metropolitan State University

Metropolitan State University stands out as an institution born from a distinct vision: to serve non-traditional students in the bustling Twin Cities metropolitan area whose educational needs weren't met elsewhere. Founded in 1971 as Minnesota Metropolitan State College, it quickly became a beacon for working adults, pioneering innovative approaches to learning. Initially, it was a strictly upper-division college, allowing students to complete their junior and senior years, and embraced competence-based learning, valuing experience gained outside the traditional classroom.

The university's early days were marked by flexibility and innovation. Students could design their own degree plans, and prior learning was recognized, offering a truly personalized educational journey. While letter grades were optional at first, the institution evolved, adapting to meet growing demands. By the 1980s, enrollment surged, and the university expanded its offerings to 30 baccalaureate programs, supported by increased state funding. This growth led to a significant shift in 1994 when Metro State began admitting freshmen and sophomores, alongside adopting general education requirements and a standard grading policy.

Today, Metropolitan State University continues its commitment to accessibility and community integration. While its main campus is now firmly established in Saint Paul since 1992, it maintains additional facilities throughout the metropolitan area, including Minneapolis and Brooklyn Park, ensuring its reach across the Twin Cities. With a student body that has grown to serve 12,000 full and part-time students annually, Metro State remains a vital hub for diverse learners seeking a practical, quality education that propels them forward in their careers and lives. Its history of innovation and student-centered growth makes it an exciting place for prospective students to consider.