Colorado State University is a Land-Grant institution committed to excellence, providing access to a world-class education for all with the talent and desire to attend college. Our mission is to advance teaching, research, and service for the benefit of Colorado, the nation, and the world.
The Morrill Act of 1862
The Morrill Act aimed to create colleges to “benefit the agricultural and mechanical arts” and “promote the liberal and practical education of the industrial classes” in a time when education was a privilege of the elite. It served as the usher for the middle class to obtain higher education that applied directly to their lives.
The spirit of the Morrill Act itself was and is one of access, which continues as a core value guiding CSU today.
The Land-Grant University
Land-grant universities are built on the belief that anyone who wants a college education should have the opportunity to attain it.
Today, as an R1 institution, CSU ranks among the top research universities in the country. Faculty and students engage in purpose-driven research to address some of our world’s most complex challenges.
We believe in the transformational power of education to prepare the next generation of scientists, artists, educators, and entrepreneurs.
At the heart of what it means to be a Ram is a steadfast commitment to unlocking the doors of opportunity for everyone. The success of all CSU students as both scholars and members of democratic society remains our top priority as we continue to strengthen our mission of teaching, research and service for the benefit of Colorado, the nation and the world.