University of Michigan

About University of Michigan

The University of Michigan (U-M / Michigan) is a world-renowned public flagship research university located in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Founded in 1817 in Detroit as the Catholepistemiad before relocating to Ann Arbor in 1837, it is one of the founding members of the Association of American Universities (AAU) and stands as one of the premier "Public Ivies" in higher education, renowned for monumental research productivity, powerhouse NCAA Division I athletics, and top-tier professional schools. Spanning approximately 3,200 acres across Central Campus, North Campus, Medical Campus, and South Campus, the university is centered in the historic, vibrant college town of Ann Arbor along the scenic Huron River. With annual research expenditures consistently exceeding $1.8 billion to $2.0 billion, Michigan ranks #1 among public universities nationwide for sponsored research volume. Landmark scientific triumphs pioneered at Michigan include the clinical trials proving the safety and efficacy of Jonas Salk's polio vaccine (1955), foundational advances in holographic imaging, the birth of the Peace Corps announced on the steps of the Michigan Union by John F. Kennedy in 1960, and pivotal advances in quantum computing, autonomous vehicle testing (Mcity), and aerospace navigation. Michigan comprises 19 world-class schools and colleges offering more than 280 degree programs: the Stephen M. Ross School of Business, the College of Engineering on North Campus, the English Gothic Law Quadrangle of the Law School, Michigan Medicine and C.S. Mott Children's Hospital, the College of Literature, Science, and the Arts (LSA), the School of Information (UMSI), the Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy, and Taubman College of Architecture and Urban Planning. On fall Saturdays, over 107,601 passionate fans pack Michigan Stadium ("The Big House")—the largest stadium in the Western Hemisphere—embodying Maize and Blue tradition.