As one of the nation’s leading public research universities, the University of Minnesota has for nearly two centuries been in the business of finding solutions to complex challenges by developing remarkable, determined and engaged problem solvers.
Our five distinct campuses — Crookston, Duluth, Morris, Rochester, and Twin Cities — each have unique strengths, enriched by their surrounding communities to serve all regions of the state. Across Minnesota, from Extension offices in all 87 counties to community clinics, research and outreach centers, and local industry partnerships, we show up where it matters most.
Across all campuses, this is above all a place where the extraordinary endures. This is a place where students live with purpose, learning from professors who are leaders in their fields, striving together to ensure our communities thrive while making discoveries that heal, grow and sustain our people, economies and environment.
Here, we don’t wait for the future—we create it.
Where we’ve been
The University of Minnesota was founded in 1851 near Saint Anthony Falls on the banks of the Mississippi River. Today, we are five campuses strong with a presence in every Minnesota county — a restless force that improves lives in our state, nation and world.
Explore the rich history of each campus.
University of Minnesota Crookston
University of Minnesota Duluth
University of Minnesota Morris
Where we’re going
Today, the University of Minnesota is a vital engine of growth, knowledge and progress. We are one university with five campuses, energized by our land-grant mission of distinguished education, groundbreaking research and service to our communities. Together, we are working to exceed all expectations to benefit the people of Minnesota, the nation and the world.
Learn more about our roadmap for the future.
At the University of Minnesota, we don't just study the world — we change it. We are a national leader in advancing community-engaged research, teaching and outreach — both locally and globally — that address some of society's most pressing issues. In fact, we’re the only higher education system in the nation to achieve the Carnegie Community Engagement Classification across all campuses.
We also actively engage in building trust with Minnesota’s 11 federally recognized Tribal nations, resulting in mutually beneficial partnerships built on research, policies and practices that respect Tribal sovereignty and traditions.
Improving the quality of life for Minnesotans and communities around the globe is a vital part of the University of Minnesota's mission.
See where we’re active and connect with us.
The University of Minnesota plays a vital role in Minnesota’s health, wellbeing and economic prosperity.
From pioneering medical breakthroughs to addressing global challenges such as climate change and food insecurity, the University of Minnesota’s impact extends far beyond its campuses. We are an economic engine for the state of Minnesota, contributing $11.5 billion annually to our state's economy through research, employment, job creation, and skilled graduates who are eager to bring new ideas and talents to the workforce.
Explore the many ways we are driving breakthrough research, supporting critical industries, and building a stronger Minnesota.
The University of Minnesota is governed by a 12-member Board of Regents, with all Regents elected to six-year terms by the Minnesota State Legislature. The Twin Cities campus is led by the president of the University of Minnesota, and all of the campuses fall under the leadership of the president (who also acts as the ex-officio, non-voting president of the Board of Regents). The Crookston, Duluth, Morris and Rochester campuses are each led by a chancellor. The University executive vice president and provost serves as chief academic officer for all campuses and is provost of the Twin Cities campus.
President Rebecca Cunningham
The University of Minnesota is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Learn more about the University of Minnesota's accreditation.