Morgan State University

Morgan State University is Maryland’s Preeminent Public Urban Research University, located in the northeast quadrant of Baltimore. Founded in 1867 as the Centenary Biblical Institute, it was originally established to train young men for ministry. It was later renamed in honor of Rev. Lyttleton Morgan, a generous donor and trustee. Today, Morgan stands as one of the most prominent Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in the United States, with a mission to serve a diverse, multiethnic, and multinational student body.
Morgan’s campus spans over 185 acres, and is the only university in the country whose entire campus has been designated a National Treasure by the National Trust for Historic Preservation.
Academics & Colleges
Morgan offers more than 140 academic degree programs across the baccalaureate, master’s, and doctoral levels, through its ten schools and colleges:
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College of Liberal Arts
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School of Architecture & Planning
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Earl G. Graves School of Business & Management
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School of Community Health & Policy
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School of Computer, Mathematical, & Natural Sciences
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School of Education & Urban Studies
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Clarence M. Mitchell School of Engineering
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School of Global Journalism & Communication
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School of Social Work
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School of Graduate Studies
Morgan is classified as a Carnegie R2: High Research Activity institution, and is a leader in urban-focused research, STEM innovation, and community engagement.
Research & Innovation
Morgan’s research enterprise is rapidly expanding, with a focus on solving real-world problems in urban communities:
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Home to the Patuxent Environmental & Aquatic Research Laboratory
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Hosts the RCMI@Morgan Biostatistics Summer Institute
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Offers cutting-edge programs in Cybersecurity, Transportation Systems, and Advanced Computing
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Engages in global partnerships to promote education, innovation, and leadership development
Mission & Values
Morgan’s motto, “Growing the Future, Leading the World,” reflects its commitment to:
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Access and equity in education
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Community-based solutions
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Global citizenship
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Leadership development
The university is deeply rooted in the urban experience, preparing students to be change-makers in their communities and beyond.
Campus & Facilities
Morgan’s campus blends historic charm with modern innovation:
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Carl J. Murphy Fine Arts Center – A hub for music, theater, and visual arts
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Earl S. Richardson Library – A state-of-the-art research facility
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Hill Field House – Home to Morgan’s athletic teams and major events
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Morgan Business Center – A sleek, modern space for business education and entrepreneurship
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Interdisciplinary Research Building – Supports collaborative research across disciplines
The university also owns a 108-acre research tract in Beltsville, Maryland, used for environmental and agricultural studies.
Student Life & Spirit
Morgan fosters a vibrant and inclusive student experience:
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NCAA Division I athletics – Competing as the Morgan Bears in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC)
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Hundreds of student organizations, including cultural, academic, and service groups
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Signature events like Bear Family Weekend, Homecoming Gala, and Morgan on the Vineyard
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Strong traditions of activism, civic engagement, and community service
Legacy & Impact
Morgan has graduated over 55,000 alumni, many of whom have become leaders in education, government, business, and the arts. It remains one of the most diverse HBCUs in the nation and the largest in Maryland, with a steadfast commitment to opening doors for all who seek higher education.