University of Michigan

Public research university in Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States

University of Michigan Logo

The University of Michigan (U-M, UMich, or Michigan) is a public research university in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Founded in 1817 in Detroit, as the University of Michigania, it is the state's oldest university. The university moved to Ann Arbor in 1837 onto 40 acres (16 ha) of what is now known as Central Campus. Since its establishment, the university has grown to include over 500 major buildings with a combined area of more than 34 million gross square feet (781 acres or 3.16 km²) spread out over Central Campus and North Campus, two regional campuses in Flint and Dearborn, and a Center for the Education of Women.

History

First Annual Report of the University of Michigania

The University of Michigan was established in 1817 as the Catholepistemiad, or University of Michigania, by the governor and judges of Michigan Territory. The institution was moved to Ann Arbor in 1837, and the first classes were held in 1841 with six freshmen and a sophomore, taught by two professors. The first commencement was held in 1845, and the first degrees were conferred in 1849.

In the 19th century, the university became a pioneer in the development of the modern American university. It was one of the first universities to use the seminar method of study and to offer a broad curriculum. The university was also a founding member of the Association of American Universities in 1900.

Campus

Library and Chapel, University of Michigan

The University of Michigan's Ann Arbor campus is divided into four main areas: North, Central, Medical, and South campuses. The Central Campus is the original and largest campus, housing the College of Literature, Science, and the Arts, the Ross School of Business, and the School of Education.

North Campus is home to the College of Engineering, the School of Music, Theatre & Dance, and the School of Art & Design. The Medical Campus includes the University of Michigan Health System, which is one of the largest health care complexes in the world.

Academics

The University of Michigan is known for its high research activity and is classified among "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity." The university offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across its 19 schools and colleges.

The university's library system is one of the largest in the United States, with more than 13 million volumes. The university is also home to the Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy, the School of Information, and the School of Public Health.

Student Life

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Campus of University of Michigan

The University of Michigan has a vibrant student life with over 1,600 student organizations, including fraternities and sororities, student government, and various cultural and academic groups. The university's athletic teams, known as the Michigan Wolverines, compete in the Big Ten Conference.

The university's Michigan Union and Michigan League are central hubs for student activities and events. The University of Michigan Museum of Art and the Kelsey Museum of Archaeology are also located on campus.

Notable Alumni

The University of Michigan has produced many notable alumni, including U.S. President Gerald Ford, playwright Arthur Miller, and Google co-founder Larry Page. The university's alumni network is extensive, with over 600,000 living alumni worldwide.

Related Pages

• Michigan Wolverines
• Ann Arbor, Michigan
• Big Ten Conference
• Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy