University of Missouri

The University of Missouri, often referred to as Mizzou, is a prestigious public research university located in Columbia, Missouri. Established in 1839, it is the flagship institution of the University of Missouri System and is recognised for its strong programs in journalism, agriculture, engineering, business, and health sciences. As the first public university west of the Mississippi River, Mizzou has a rich history of academic excellence, innovation, and public service. It boasts a diverse student body, cutting-edge research facilities, and a commitment to community engagement.

The University of Missouri, established in 1839, holds the distinction of being the first public university west of the Mississippi River. Its founding was made possible through the Geyer Act passed by the Missouri Legislature, with local citizens of Columbia and Boone County pledging land and funds to secure its location. 

The university was initially built on land owned by James S. Rollins, often called the "Father of the University," and was influenced by Thomas Jefferson's ideals of accessible public education. In its early years, the institution admitted only white male students and grew rapidly, integrating various colleges such as arts, sciences, agriculture, law, medicine, and engineering by the late 19th century, reflecting its expanding mission.

Throughout its history, the university faced significant challenges, including a devastating fire in 1892 that destroyed Academic Hall, the central administrative building. The institution was rebuilt under Governor David R. Francis, preserving the iconic stone columns as a symbol of resilience. 

The campus was redesigned in the City Beautiful movement style, with notable areas like the Francis Quadrangle and the development of the Red and White Campus sections. The university also expanded its academic offerings, establishing the nation's first journalism school in 1908 and developing specialized research centers, such as the Missouri School of Mines and the Agricultural Experiment Station.

The university's history is also marked by social struggles and civil rights issues, including racial violence, court-ordered integration, and protests in recent years. Notably, in 1938, the Supreme Court mandated the admission of Lloyd Gaines, a Black student denied entry to MU's law school, highlighting the ongoing fight for racial equality. More recently, the 2015–16 protests over racial issues led to leadership resignations and censure by academic organizations. 

Despite these challenges, the University of Missouri has continued to evolve, adapting to societal changes while maintaining its status as a leading public research university. The COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 further demonstrated its resilience, with classes temporarily moved online before returning to in-person instruction.

The university is today home to the world’s first journalism school. As a flagship, land-grant institution and one of only 71 universities across the U.S. and Canada to be a member of the prestigious Association of American Universities, its campus' empathy, innovation and hard work combine to solve the world’s grand challenges. Their community of students, faculty and staff enhances bovine reproduction, composes award-winning music and generates life-saving radioisotopes in the most powerful university research reactor in the country. 

The University of Missouri offers a Bachelor of Science in Textile and Apparel Management. One of the top programs of its kind, it prepares students for merchandising, buying, sourcing, product development, technical design, e-retailing, or retail operations. The curriculum focuses on leadership, global supply chain, sustainability, creativity, and technology. Through course work, field study experiences, internships, leadership conferences, and student organisations, students develop the skills they need to be a top recruit for industry positions.

The Department of Textile and Apparel Management also offers Masters’ of Science in Textile and Apparel Management and PhD in Human Environmental Sciences with an emphasis in Textile and Apparel Management. It is one of a few programs in the country that offers a PhD degree in textile and apparel-related disciplines. The Department of Textile and Apparel Management also offers tGraduate Certificate in Digital Merchandising — 100% online — to meet the growing needs of digital merchandising knowledge. This ranks among the top programs in the country and offers students a strong faculty base, research expertise, library access, computer labs, interdisciplinary and intercollegiate research opportunities.

Both the bachelor’s and master’s programs at the University of Missouri are supported by robust facilities, including textile labs and design studios, which enable students to explore technologies and techniques. The university’s emphasis on experiential learning ensures that students are well-prepared to meet the challenges of the fashion industry. The combination of practical coursework, internships, and research positions graduates for successful careers in fashion design, merchandising, and management roles.

Ranked 4th Best Value among all flagship universities by U.S. News and  World Report, the University of Missouri's strengths are prominently recognized in areas like journalism, agriculture, and health sciences. 

The University of Missouri has a historical and ongoing commitment to improving job integration and diversity within its employment practices. Historically, the university was segregated, but legal actions and societal pressures in the mid-20th century led to the gradual integration of faculty, staff, and students. Over the years, the university has taken steps to increase representation of minority groups among its employees, reflecting broader efforts to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion. Moreover, 95% of Mizzou graduates are successful within six months of graduation! 

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