Our History
Founded in 1963, SMSU has grown into a university of choice with high national rankings for our affordability and academic excellence. The University is dedicated to preparing scholars who become the leaders, thinkers, and entrepreneurs of the future.
Southwest Minnesota State University is a four-year public university offering a high quality education in the liberal arts and professions to prepare you for a life that is successful both personally and professionally. SMSU has grown into a university of choice with high national rankings, producing scholars who become the leaders, thinkers, and entrepreneurs of the future.
Strong academics, fulfilling social activities, rewarding civic engagement projects, and support from fellow Mustangs in a close-knit environment mean you will get the education of a lifetime at a price that won’t take a lifetime to pay for. We invite you to visit SMSU and to see for yourself all that we have to offer.
Our Mission
Southwest Minnesota State University prepares students to meet the complex challenges of this century as engaged citizens in their local and global communities. Our 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.
Our Vision
SMSU aspires to be recognized throughout Minnesota and beyond for being an inclusive and student-centered university.
Our Values
We Value:
- Discovery through innovative teaching, research, and other high-impact experiences.
- Civic engagement and strategic partnerships.
- Developing broadly educated and well-rounded leaders.
Our Leadership
Kumara Jayasuriya was appointed by the Minnesota State system and began his duties July 1, 2019. President Jayasuriya is the tenth permanent president of SMSU.
Southwest Minnesota State University's 2021 Rankings
Southwest Minnesota State University is ranked #117 in Regional Universities Midwest. Schools are ranked according to their performance across a set of widely accepted indicators of excellence.
- #117 in Regional Universities Midwest (tie)
- #134 in Top Performers on Social Mobility (tie)
- #38 in Top Public Schools
