Our History
From humble beginnings to a thriving university — our history helped shape us into the incredible institution we proudly are today.
History of MSU
Today
MSU offers more than 130 undergraduate programs and over 85 master’s, advanced certificate and doctoral programs. With a vibrant campus life featuring 200+ clubs, intramural sports and 20 intercollegiate athletic teams, students can find endless ways to engage with MSU.
1998
For the fifth time in its history, the University adopted a new name to reflect its expanded role in serving both Minnesota and the nation. Minnesota State University, Mankato continues to be recognized for the excellence of its programs and impact.
1975
In 1975, the school received full university status. Four years later, the Highland Campus was complete.
1957
In 1957, the school was renamed Mankato State College to reflect its broader academic offerings, and construction of the Highland Campus began. For several years, the college operated from both locations.
1927
In 1927, the institution celebrated a milestone by awarding its first four-year degree: a Bachelor of Education.
1921
The school’s name was changed to Mankato State Teachers College.
1870s – 1880s
In 1870, Old Main was constructed and marked the beginning of the Valley Campus that would serve the institution for more than a century. In the 1880s, the school expanded and curriculum grew.
1868
MSU began in 1868 as Mankato Normal School and was the state’s second teacher training institution with an initial class of 27 students. In exchange for free tuition, students committed to teaching for at least two years in Minnesota after graduating.
Today
MSU offers more than 130 undergraduate programs and over 85 master’s, advanced certificate and doctoral programs. With a vibrant campus life featuring 200+ clubs, intramural sports and 20 intercollegiate athletic teams, students can find endless ways to engage with MSU.
1998
For the fifth time in its history, the University adopted a new name to reflect its expanded role in serving both Minnesota and the nation. Minnesota State University, Mankato continues to be recognized for the excellence of its programs and impact.
1975
In 1975, the school received full university status. Four years later, the Highland Campus was complete.
1957
In 1957, the school was renamed Mankato State College to reflect its broader academic offerings, and construction of the Highland Campus began. For several years, the college operated from both locations.
1927
In 1927, the institution celebrated a milestone by awarding its first four-year degree: a Bachelor of Education.
1921
The school’s name was changed to Mankato State Teachers College.
1870s – 1880s
In 1870, Old Main was constructed and marked the beginning of the Valley Campus that would serve the institution for more than a century. In the 1880s, the school expanded and curriculum grew.
1868
MSU began in 1868 as Mankato Normal School and was the state’s second teacher training institution with an initial class of 27 students. In exchange for free tuition, students committed to teaching for at least two years in Minnesota after graduating.
Presidential History
A chronological history of presidents at Minnesota State University, Mankato.
School Pride
MINNESOTA STATE ROUSER
Hail to our colors,
the purple and the gold.
Rally for vict'ry,
We're back of you
so fight, fight, fight.
You'll conquer our foes
all you Mav'ricks brave and bold.
So fight on Minnesota State
Come on let's go, let's go!
M–A–V–E–R–I–C–K–S! MAV–'RICKS! MAV–'RICKS!
GO STATE!
MINNESOTA STATE HYMN
Minnesota State, we hail; Hail the purple and the gold.
All alumni, old and new, take you with them when they go.
From the hilltop, from the prairie, Where the river bends to lead them
We are walking proud and strong, Minnesota State on and on.
Racha Macha, MSU, now and always we'll be true
In the classroom, on the mall, by the fountain, spring or fall
In the cities, in their towers, in the nations far from home.
Minnesota State we hail to you. Purple and gold we're ever true.