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University of Michigan-Ann Arbor

Ann Arbor, MI

publicgraduate

Quick Facts

Wikipedia
1817
Founded
Public research university
Type
33,488
Total Students
35,358
Undergrad
18,130
Graduate
$21.2B
Endowment
(2025)
$17K
Tuition (In-State)
$58K
Tuition (Out-State)
$15K
Avg Net Price
18%
Acceptance Rate
93%
Graduation Rate
6-year
98%
Retention Rate
Doctoral Universities
Classification

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About University of Michigan-Ann Arbor

Michigan: A pioneering public research university, renowned for its academic depth and athletic excellence.

The University of Michigan stands as a beacon of public research, renowned for its rich history and exceptional academic prowess. Founded in 1817, it holds the distinction of being the oldest institution of higher education in Michigan and a founding member of the esteemed Association of American Universities. Recognized with an "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity" classification, Michigan is a hub of innovation, demonstrated by its ranking as third among American universities in research expenditures in 2021.

With a vibrant academic landscape, the university boasts 19 schools and colleges offering more than 280 diverse degree programs. It attracts a vast and dynamic student body, educating over 53,000 students, including more than 35,000 undergraduates and 18,000 postgraduates. Whether you're interested in the arts, sciences, engineering, business, or public policy, Michigan provides a comprehensive and challenging environment for intellectual growth, supported by a significant endowment of $21.2 billion in 2025.

Beyond its formidable academics, the University of Michigan offers an unparalleled student experience. The sprawling 3,177-acre campus in Ann Arbor is home to the iconic Michigan Stadium, the largest stadium in the United States and the Western Hemisphere. As the Wolverines, Michigan's athletic teams compete in NCAA Division I as part of the Big Ten Conference, fostering a passionate and spirited community. The university's commitment to excellence extends to sports, with its athletes collectively earning an impressive 185 medals at the Olympic Games, including 86 gold, between 1900 and 2022.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1817, it is the oldest institution of higher education in Michigan.
  • Designated as an "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity" by the Carnegie Classification.
  • Ranked third among American universities in research expenditures in 2021.
  • Boasts an impressive $21.2 billion endowment as of 2025.
  • Educates over 53,000 students across 19 schools and colleges, offering more than 280 degree programs.
  • Home to Michigan Stadium, the largest stadium in the United States and the Western Hemisphere.
  • Wolverine athletes have collectively earned 185 Olympic medals, including 86 gold, between 1900 and 2022.

Timeline

1703
Earliest known proposal for establishing an institution of higher education in the region by Antoine de la Mothe Cadillac.
1805
A seminary that trained young men for the ministry in the region was destroyed in the Great Fire of Detroit.
1817
Officially established as the Catholepistemiad, or University of Michigania, through a territorial act.
1841
Published its first admission requirements for freshmen, emphasizing ancient languages like Latin and Greek.
1851
Introduced a more flexible admission approach, waiving ancient language requirements for certain students, a prelude to scientific education.
1854
The College of Engineering was founded, marking a significant expansion of academic offerings.
1859
The Law School was established, beginning its long tradition of legal education.
1863
A standardized entrance examination was introduced, establishing a single set of qualifications for all departments.
1875
The School of Dentistry was founded, expanding the university's professional health programs.
1921
The Medical School was founded, establishing a cornerstone of Michigan Medicine.
🏛️
209 Years
of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

18 notable schools within University of Michigan-Ann Arbor

🏫

A. Alfred Taubman College of Architecture & Urban Planning

Founded in 1906, offering professional degrees in architecture and urban planning.

🏫

School of Dentistry

Established in 1875, providing comprehensive dental education.

⚙️

College of Engineering

Founded in 1854, a leading institution for engineering education and research.

🏫

School for Environment and Sustainability

Established in 1927, focusing on environmental and sustainability studies.

🏫

School of Information

Founded in 1969, dedicated to the study of information and its societal impact.

🏫

School of Kinesiology

Established in 1984, specializing in the study of human movement and health.

⚖️

Law School

Founded in 1859, offering prestigious legal education.

🎭

College of Literature, Science, and the Arts

Established in 1841, the university's largest undergraduate unit covering a wide range of disciplines.

📚

Marsal Family School of Education

Founded in 1921, dedicated to advancing education through teaching and research.

🏥

Medical School

Established in 1921, a core component of Michigan Medicine for medical care, research, and education.

🏫

School of Music, Theatre & Dance

Founded in 1880, offering programs in music, theatre, and dance.

💉

School of Nursing

Established in 1893, providing comprehensive nursing education.

💊

College of Pharmacy

Founded in 1876, focused on pharmaceutical sciences and practice.

🏛️

School of Public Health

Established in 1941, dedicated to public health research and practice.

🏛️

Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy

Founded in 1914, specializing in public policy and leadership.

💼

Stephen M. Ross School of Business

Established in 1924, a leading institution for business education.

🏫

School of Social Work

Founded in 1951, focusing on social work education and research.

🎨

Penny W. Stamps School of Art & Design

Established in 1974, offering programs in art and design.

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