Morgan State University

Breadcrumb Abstract Shape
Breadcrumb Abstract Shape

Morgan State University

Overview & Academics

  • Morgan State University (MSU) is a premier public research university and Maryland’s designated Preeminent Public Urban Research University. Originally established in 1867 as a private institution, MSU is now one of the nation’s leading Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), with a comprehensive range of undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral programs.
  • Academically, MSU is organized into multiple colleges, including the School of Business & Management, School of Engineering, College of Liberal Arts, School of Education & Urban Studies, School of Computer, Mathematical & Natural Sciences, School of Community Health & Policy, and others. The university offers more than 140 academic programs across various levels.
  • MSU is classified as an R2: Doctoral University–High research activity, reflecting its emphasis on research and scholarly output.

Admissions

  • Admission to Morgan State University is considered moderately selective. Both first-time freshman and transfer students complete an online application, and SAT/ACT scores are accepted but not required for admission.
  • Applications are reviewed holistically, considering academic records, standardized test scores (optional), recommendations, and extracurricular involvement.
  • Application Deadlines: Fall undergraduate priority deadline is February 15; rolling admissions afterward until capacity is reached.

Cost

  • Tuition and fees (2023-2024):
    • In-state undergraduate: approximately $8,200 per year
    • Out-of-state undergraduate: approximately $18,500 per year
    • Room and board: approximately $11,000 per year
  • Comprehensive financial aid packages are available to eligible students, including scholarships, grants, work-study, and loans.

Student Population

  • Enrollment: Around 9,100 students (2023-2024), including approximately 7,500 undergraduates and 1,600 graduate/professional students.
  • MSU has a diverse student body, with a strong representation of African American and Black students, along with students from across the United States and more than 50 countries.

Rankings & Distinctions

  • Consistently ranked among the top HBCUs in the United States.
  • Recognized for its programs in engineering, business, education, and the arts.
  • Designated as a National Treasure by the National Trust for Historic Preservation.
  • Ranked as an R2 (High Research Activity) doctoral university by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education.

Campus & Culture

  • The 185-acre campus is located in northeast Baltimore, featuring historic and modern facilities, a performing arts center, science and engineering research complexes, and student recreational centers.
  • The campus is noted for its vibrant multicultural environment and strong community engagement initiatives.
  • Main campus address: 1700 East Cold Spring Lane, Baltimore, Maryland 21251-0001

Athletics & Traditions

  • Morgan State Bears participate in NCAA Division I and are members of the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC).
  • Varsity sports include football, basketball, tennis, track & field, volleyball, softball, bowling, and more.
  • Traditional campus events: Homecoming, Founder’s Day, I Love Morgan Week, annual candlelight ceremonies.
  • Strong marching band tradition with “The Magnificent Marching Machine.”

Mission

  • MSU’s mission is to serve the community, region, state, nation, and world as an intellectual and creative resource by supporting, empowering, and preparing diverse and competitive graduates to lead the world.
  • Emphasis on urban community service, scholarship, innovation, and leadership development.

Leadership & Current Developments

  • MSU is led by President David K. Wilson, who has fostered significant growth in research, infrastructure, and global engagement since his tenure began.
  • Recent investments include new academic buildings (including the new Tyler Hall and Calvin & Tina Tyler Hall for student services), enhanced research capacity, and campus expansion projects.
  • Strategic plan focuses on maintaining R2 status, achieving R1 (very high research activity), supporting student success, and increasing external research funding.

Programs

  • Offers over 60 bachelor’s degrees, 40+ master’s programs, and more than 15 doctoral programs.
  • Distinctive and accredited programs in engineering (ABET), social work (CSWE), business (AACSB), architecture (NAAB), and others.
  • Robust programs in health sciences, communication, education, and urban studies.
  • Online and professional studies options are available.

Campus Life

  • On-campus housing options include traditional residence halls and suite-style accommodations.
  • Dining services, wellness center, career resource centers, and extensive student support services.
  • Active Greek life, leadership development, and cultural celebrations throughout the year.

Student Organizations

  • More than 120 student organizations, including:
    • Student Government Association
    • National Society of Black Engineers
    • Campus media (The Spokesman newspaper, WEAA-FM radio, MSU TV)
    • Academic honor societies, service clubs, and professional associations
    • Fraternities and sororities (Divine Nine and others)

Admission Stats (2022-2023)

  • Freshman acceptance rate: approximately 85%
  • Average GPA of incoming freshmen: 2.9 to 3.2
  • Mid-50% SAT range (for those who submitted): 890-1050
  • Mid-50% ACT range (for those who submitted): 16-23
  • Application deadlines: Fall priority – February 15; applications accepted on rolling basis thereafter