42 Interesting Facts about University of Minnesota

Dan April 1, 2023

The University of Minnesota, also known as UMN or the U of M, is a public research university located in Minneapolis and Saint Paul, Minnesota. Founded in 1851, it is the oldest and largest university in the state, with a total enrollment of over 50,000 students across its five campuses. The University of Minnesota is a member of the prestigious Association of American Universities, which consists of 65 leading research universities in North America.

The University of Minnesota offers more than 150 undergraduate majors and 250 graduate degree programs across 19 colleges and schools. Some of its most popular undergraduate programs include biology, psychology, business, computer science, and engineering. The university is also well-known for its graduate programs in areas such as law, medicine, education, and public affairs.

Research is a major focus at the University of Minnesota, with over $900 million in annual research expenditures. The university is home to numerous research centers and institutes, including the Institute for Engineering in Medicine, the Institute for Global Studies, and the Institute for Health Informatics. UMN researchers have made significant contributions to fields such as medicine, renewable energy, and agriculture.

The University of Minnesota is also known for its vibrant campus life, with over 800 student organizations and a thriving sports program. The university is a member of the Big Ten Conference and fields teams in 25 varsity sports. The campus is home to several museums and art galleries, including the Weisman Art Museum and the Bell Museum of Natural History.

Do you want to know more about the University of Minnesota? Let’s take a look at these 42 interesting facts about the University of Minnesota.

1. The University of Minnesota was founded in 1851, making it one of the oldest universities in the United States.
2. It is the flagship campus of the University of Minnesota system, which includes four other campuses across the state.
3. The university has over 50,000 students enrolled across its five campuses.
4. The university’s colors are maroon and gold.
5. The university’s mascot is Goldy Gopher.
6. The university has five campuses: Twin Cities, Crookston, Duluth, Morris, and Rochester.
7. The Twin Cities campus is located in Minneapolis and Saint Paul. It is the largest and oldest of the five campuses.
8. The university is a member of the Big Ten Conference.
9. The university’s football team, the Golden Gophers, plays at TCF Bank Stadium.
10. The university’s basketball team, the Golden Gophers, plays at Williams Arena.
11. The university’s hockey team, the Golden Gophers, plays at 3M Arena at Mariucci.
12. The university has won 20 national championships in various sports.
13. The university’s marching band is called the University of Minnesota Marching Band.
14. The university has a tradition of playing the “Minnesota Rouser” fight song at sporting events.
15. The university has produced over 25 Nobel laureates.
16. The university is known for its strong research programs in fields such as medicine, engineering, and agriculture.
17. The university’s research expenditures exceed $900 million annually.
18. The university is home to the Bell Museum of Natural History.
19. The university is home to the Weisman Art Museum.
20. The university has a planetarium on the Twin Cities campus.
21. The university’s library system is one of the largest in the United States.
22. The university has a significant international student population.
23. The university has a large Greek life community.
24. The university has a significant presence in the Minneapolis-Saint Paul metropolitan area.
25. The university has over 800 student organizations.
26. The university has a student-run radio station, Radio K.
27. The university has a student-run newspaper, The Minnesota Daily.
28. The university’s mascot, Goldy Gopher, has won several national mascot championships.
29. The university’s graduate programs are ranked among the top in the nation.
30. The university is a member of the Association of American Universities.
31. The university’s motto is “Driven to Discover.”
32. The university’s basketball court, Williams Arena, is known as “The Barn.”
33. The university’s student section for basketball games is called “The Barnyard.”
34. The university has a tradition of ringing the Victory Bell after athletic victories.
35. The university’s football team has a rivalry with the Wisconsin Badgers.
36. The university has a tradition of “ski-u-mah,” which is often chanted at sporting events.
37. The university has a tradition of throwing tortillas on the ice during hockey games.
38. The university has a strong commitment to sustainability and has received several awards for its green initiatives.
39. The university’s mascot, Goldy Gopher, has been featured in several national commercials.
40. The university has a tradition of singing “Hail! Minnesota” at the end of events.
41. The university’s hockey team has won five national championships.
42. The university has a tradition of donating to the University of Minnesota Masonic Children’s Hospital during homecoming week.

The University of Minnesota is a prestigious institution with a long-standing tradition of academic excellence, innovation, and community engagement. From its cutting-edge research programs and renowned faculty to its commitment to diversity, sustainability, and public service, the university offers students and scholars from around the world a unique and dynamic educational experience. With a diverse range of academic programs, a thriving campus culture, and numerous opportunities for research and professional development, the University of Minnesota is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a challenging and rewarding educational experience. Whether you are interested in pursuing a degree in the arts, sciences, or professional fields, the University of Minnesota offers the resources, support, and expertise you need to succeed.