Central Michigan University
A Beacon of Higher Learning in the Great Lakes State
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University Overview
Foundation and Status
Central Michigan University (CMU) is a distinguished public research university situated in Mount Pleasant, Michigan. Established in 1892 as a private normal school, it transitioned to a state institution in 1895. CMU holds the classification of "R2: Doctoral Universities โ High research activity," underscoring its commitment to advanced research and scholarly pursuits.
Location and Campus
The main campus is located in Mount Pleasant, Michigan, spanning approximately 480 acres. CMU also maintains a presence through various satellite locations across Michigan, including Clinton Township, Dearborn, Grand Rapids, Lansing, Saginaw, Southfield, Traverse City, and Troy, extending its educational reach.
Enrollment and Programs
As of Fall 2023, CMU serves over 14,000 students on its primary campus. The university offers a comprehensive academic portfolio, comprising 200 distinct programs across undergraduate, master's, specialist, and doctoral levels, catering to a diverse student body.
A Legacy of Growth
Early Beginnings
CMU commenced operations in 1892 as the Central Michigan Normal School and Business Institute. Initially serving 31 students in downtown Mount Pleasant, the institution rapidly evolved. Professor Charles F. R. Bellows, the founding principal, played a pivotal role in its early development, including the construction of the original Main Building.
Transformation and Expansion
In 1895, the Michigan State Board of Education assumed control, renaming the institution Central Michigan Normal School. By 1918, the campus had grown to five buildings on 25 acres. A significant transformation occurred on June 1, 1959, when it was renamed Central Michigan University, reflecting its expanded academic offerings and physical growth, with enrollment tripling in the subsequent decade.
Modern Developments
In recent years, CMU has continued to adapt. The university opened its medical school in 2010 to address the need for rural healthcare professionals. It also supports a significant network of public charter schools across Michigan through the Governor John Engler Center for Charter Schools.
Academic Excellence
Divisions and Colleges
CMU is structured into eight distinct academic divisions, fostering specialized learning and research environments:
Rankings and Admissions
CMU is recognized for its academic standing, consistently appearing in national rankings. For the Class of 2025, the university reported an acceptance rate of 77.1% and a yield rate of 13.4%. The middle 50% SAT score range was 1010-1223, and the ACT composite range was 19-26.
Popular Majors
The university's most sought-after undergraduate programs, based on 2021 graduates, include Psychology, Exercise Science and Kinesiology, Community Organization and Advocacy, Marketing, Cell/Cellular and Molecular Biology, and Child Development, demonstrating a strong focus on both liberal arts and professional fields.
Research and Innovation
Investment in Discovery
Central Michigan University demonstrates a significant commitment to research and development. In 2018, the university allocated $15.6 million towards research and development activities, as reported by the National Science Foundation. This investment supports faculty and student endeavors across various disciplines.
Endowed Lectureships
CMU hosts several prestigious endowed lectureships that bring distinguished scholars and thinkers to campus, enriching the intellectual environment. These include series focusing on topics such as the study of dictatorship, democracy, and genocide; mathematics; political integrity; and intellectual discussions for future leaders, named in honor of influential figures.
Campus Life and Community
Residence Halls
CMU provides a robust residential experience with 21 on-campus residence halls organized into four main areas: North, South, East, and The Towers. These halls offer various suite configurations and are supported by four Residential Restaurants. Several halls are designated as Living Learning Communities, fostering academic collaboration.
Media and Publications
The student body actively engages in campus media. Central Michigan Life, the student-run newspaper, has received national recognition from the Society of Professional Journalists. Additionally, CMU hosts student-operated radio stations (WMHW-FM, FM 101.1), a television station (MHTV), a music label (Moore Media Records), and digital publications like Grand Central Magazine and Verge Magazine.
Campus Safety
Campus safety is a priority, though CMU experienced a tragic incident in March 2018 involving a student responsible for the deaths of his parents on campus. The university has protocols in place to manage safety and support its community.
Athletic Prowess
NCAA Division I
Central Michigan University's athletic programs compete at the NCAA Division I level, primarily within the Mid-American Conference (MAC). The university fields six men's and ten women's varsity sports, showcasing athletic talent and competitive spirit.
Football and Wrestling Success
The CMU football program has produced notable NFL players and achieved significant success, including MAC championships and a Top 25 national ranking in 2009. The wrestling team has a strong tradition, marked by multiple MAC championships and consistent performance at the NCAA Championships.
Championship Moments
The women's basketball program reached the Sweet Sixteen of the NCAA Division I tournament in 2018, marking a historic achievement. These athletic accomplishments contribute significantly to the university's identity and community pride.
Distinguished Alumni
Public Service and Politics
CMU boasts a notable roster of alumni in public service and politics, including U.S. Representatives Dan Kildee and Brenda Lawrence, and former Governor of Kentucky Matt Bevin, demonstrating the university's impact on national and state leadership.
Military and Professional Achievements
The university's alumni network extends to distinguished military leaders, such as four-star generals William F. Kernan and Jimmy D. Ross, and Lieutenant General Stephen Lanza. In sports, former NBA All-Star Dan Majerle is a notable alumnus.
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References
References
- Other consists of Multiracial Americans & those who prefer to not say.
- The percentage of students who received an income-based federal Pell grant intended for low-income students.
- The percentage of students who are a part of the American middle class at the bare minimum.
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Disclaimer
Important Notice
This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on publicly available data and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.
This is not professional advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional academic, financial, or career consultation. Always refer to official university resources and consult with qualified professionals for specific needs.
The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.