Iowa State University

Campus of Iowa State University 83

Campus of Iowa State University 54

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Campus of Iowa State University 23

Parks Library

Iowa State University (ISU) is a public land-grant university located in Ames, Iowa, United States. It is the largest university in the state of Iowa and the third largest university in the Big 12 Conference. ISU is classified among "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity".

History

Iowa State University was established in 1858 as the Iowa Agricultural College and Model Farm. It officially opened on March 17, 1869, after being designated as a land-grant college under the Morrill Act of 1862, which provided federal land to states to finance the creation of colleges specializing in "agriculture and the mechanic arts". Over time, the college expanded its curriculum beyond agriculture and engineering to become a comprehensive university, and in 1959, it was officially renamed Iowa State University of Science and Technology. The name reflects its broad range of scientific, technological, and humanistic disciplines, although it is commonly referred to as Iowa State University.

Campus

The ISU campus spans 1,813 acres in Ames and is known for its distinctive Beaux-Arts architecture and beautifully landscaped grounds, designed by the renowned landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted. The campus includes a number of notable buildings and landmarks, such as the Campanile, a bell tower that is a symbol of the university and the site of the traditional Campaniling ceremony for new students.

Academics

Iowa State University is organized into eight colleges, offering over 100 bachelor's degree programs, 112 master's degree programs, and 83 doctoral degree programs. These colleges are:

• College of Agriculture and Life Sciences
• College of Business
• College of Design
• College of Engineering
• College of Human Sciences
• College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
• Graduate College
• College of Veterinary Medicine

ISU is known for its strong programs in engineering, agriculture, animal science, and veterinary medicine. It is home to the first electrical engineering program in the nation and the first state veterinary medicine college.

Research

As a land-grant institution, research is a core component of Iowa State University's mission. The university is home to several government-sponsored research centers, including the Ames Laboratory, a U.S. Department of Energy research facility. ISU's research initiatives span a wide range of disciplines, with significant contributions in areas such as biotechnology, renewable energy, and material science.

Student Life

Iowa State University has a vibrant student life with over 800 student organizations, including academic clubs, professional societies, and special interest groups. The university's Greek life is also active, with many fraternities and sororities. ISU's athletic teams, known as the Cyclones, compete in the NCAA Division I Big 12 Conference. The university places a strong emphasis on student engagement and leadership development, offering numerous programs and services to support student success.

Notable Alumni

Iowa State University has produced many distinguished alumni, including Nobel laureate George Washington Carver, who earned his bachelor's and master's degrees at ISU, and Carrie Chapman Catt, a leader of the American women's suffrage movement.

Conclusion

Iowa State University continues to be a leader in education, research, and extension services, contributing significantly to the state of Iowa, the nation, and the world. Its commitment to innovation, excellence, and the land-grant mission makes it a vital institution for higher learning.