Southwest Minnesota State University is a four-year public university offering a high-quality education in the liberal arts and professions to prepare students for a life that is successful both personally and professionally.

Founded in 1963 and opened in 1967, SMSU has grown into a university of choice with high national rankings, producing scholars who become future leaders, thinkers, and entrepreneurs.

Southwest Minnesota State University prepares students to meet the complex challenges of this century as engaged citizens in their local and global communities. Their comprehensive degree programs, taught in the liberal arts tradition, are dedicated to connecting students’ academic and practical professional development experiences in southwestern Minnesota to the wider world. Southwest Minnesota State University values discovery through innovative teaching, research, and other high-impact experiences. It also signifies civic engagement and strategic partnerships as well as developing broadly educated and well-rounded leaders.