Michigan Technological University (Michigan Tech or MTU) is a public research university located in Houghton, Michigan, United States. It was founded in 1885 as the Michigan Mining School, the first post-secondary institution in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. The university is classified as an R1 institution, signifying very high research activity and doctorate production. Michigan Tech has a strong reputation in technological research and education, reflected in its status as a flagship research university in the state.
The campus is situated on a bluff overlooking Portage Lake and encompasses 925 acres with 36 buildings, the earliest constructed in 1908. Michigan Tech offers more than 140 degree programs through its five colleges and schools: the College of Engineering, the College of Computing, the College of Sciences and Arts, the College of Business, and the College of Forest Resources and Environmental Science. These programs serve nearly 7,000 graduate and undergraduate students.
Michigan Tech emphasizes STEM education and is known for its rigorous engineering, computing, and environmental science curricula. The university fosters research, innovation, and applied learning, contributing significantly to advancements in technology and industry sectors. Its commitment to experiential education is reflected in co-op programs, research opportunities, and strong ties with industries.
Athletically, Michigan Tech’s teams are known as the Huskies and compete mainly in the NCAA Division II Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference. The men’s ice hockey team is a Division I program in the Central Collegiate Hockey Association, with three national championships in its history. The women’s basketball team notably finished as national runners-up in 2011.
As of 2021, total student enrollment was approximately 7,000, with a record number of female students representing about 29% of the student body. The university continues to grow both in size and research impact while maintaining its legacy of leadership in science and technology education.