Overview: University of Memphis
Founded in 1912, the University of Memphis (UofM) is a leading public research university located in Memphis, Tennessee, United States. Spread across a main campus and several satellite locations, UofM serves over 21,000 students and employs more than 900 full-time faculty members. As a comprehensive institution, the university integrates rigorous research with outstanding teaching, catering to undergraduate, graduate, and professional students from the United States and over 80 countries. Its location in a vibrant urban center underlines its commitment to community engagement and impact.
Academic Strengths and Structure
The University of Memphis is recognized for its strong programs in engineering, business administration, audiology and speech-language pathology, education, and the arts. Its Herff College of Engineering and Fogelman College of Business and Economics have received national distinction, while the School of Communication Sciences and Disorders frequently ranks among the top in the U.S. UofM emphasizes experiential and interdisciplinary learning, fostering innovation via initiatives like the FedEx Institute of Technology and partnerships with leading corporations and academic consortia. The institution produces groundbreaking research, reporting over $56 million in annual research expenditures and supporting numerous federally funded centers. UofM is ranked among the top public universities for social mobility by U.S. News & World Report and actively collaborates in joint degree programs and global research networks.
Student Life and Community
With more than 250 student organizations, vibrant performing arts, and NCAA Division I athletics, the University of Memphis offers a dynamic campus experience. The university promotes inclusivity and intercultural exchange, with dedicated support for international and underrepresented students. On-campus housing accommodates thousands, fostering a strong residential community. Comprehensive wellness, counseling, and career services are available, reinforcing student success. Annual events—such as International Festival and Multicultural Fair—celebrate diversity, while active volunteering connects students with Memphis’s historic and cultural richness. The institution’s commitment to holistic development extends beyond academics to athletics, the arts, and student leadership opportunities.
Mission, Vision, and Values
Guided by a mission to empower learners and transform communities, the University of Memphis champions innovation, equity, and global citizenship. It is dedicated to advancing knowledge and fostering leaders equipped to make meaningful, sustainable impacts locally and worldwide.
