Founded in 1839, the University of Missouri, also known as ‘Mizzou,’ is the largest and oldest university in the state of Missouri. Home to more than 27,000 undergraduates, Mizzou students represent 112 countries around the world. The university is regarded as one of the nation’s top research institutions, and offers degrees that convey excellence across the globe.  

Call Columbia Home: Columbia, Missouri, home to the University of Missouri, is one of the most well-known college towns in the United States. It combines small town comforts, community spirit and low cost of living with big city culture, activities and resources. Columbia is also one of the “Best Places to Live” according to CBS News.

Columbia offers more than 600 restaurants and many entertainment venues, including movie theaters that play international films. The city supports international students with multiple international grocery stores, cultural festivals and places of worship for many religions. Columbia also offers outdoor recreational opportunities, including Rock Bridge State Parkand the MKT Trail for hiking and bicycling.

Earn Your Degree: Offering more than 300 undergraduate majors for students to choose from, the University of Missouri allows students to specialize in areas that will prepare them for a successful career. The university has many nationally recognized programs including its business, marketing and biomedical sciences programs. The university is also well known for its journalism school, founded in 1908, which was the first program of its kind internationally. 

The University of Missouri International Center works to create a smooth transition for international students and organizes multicultural events around the Columbia community. The university offers a Confucius Institute, Asian Affairs Center and the Center for English Learning, which offers an intensive English program and English language support program. The International Center provides students with a deeper understanding of academic and American culture, assists students with personal and cultural adjustments, as well as fosters support for international initiatives. 

Get Involved: There is always something new for Mizzou students to try. With more than 750 clubs and organizations, students can participate in activities that support their personal passions and develop new friendships. The university offers religious organizations, special interest clubs, professional development organizations, as well as an active student government association. The university keeps an up-to-date calendar of events so students don’t miss a thing!

Cheer on the Tigers: With 18 teams competing at the highest level of collegiate sports, the University of Missouri has sporting events every week for students to attend throughout the year. The university is very proud of its sports teams and traditions, and at each home football game, Mizzou fans from across the country gather in Memorial Stadium to cheer on the Tigers. 

University of Missouri students who would rather be a part of the game can get involved with MizzouRec, which offers recreational and club sports, as well as workout classes, an aquatics center, and an indoor track and fitness center where students can train. With weekly special events and extended hours at their fitness centers, Mizzou students have the opportunity to stay healthy and have fun on campus. 

Finding a Home: Columbia is known for its welcoming and energetic atmosphere. University of Missouri students are not required to live on campus, meaning international students have the option to search throughout the city to find the apartment that will be right for their lifestyle and budget. If your apartment is unfurnished, furniture rental is an economical and convenient way to furnish your home. CORT, the leading provider of furniture rental in the U.S., furnishes thousands of student apartments with everything from beds and sofas to housewares and electronics – all with affordable rental package options.

If you’re searching for an excellent education with access to quality research facilities and distinguished faculty, consider the University of Missouri. Take an online tour of the university to see what campus looks like and explore the university’s website to learn more about their programs and how they might fit with your interests.

Rob Johnson is an experienced international traveler and Director of Higher Education Sales at CORT Furniture Rental, where he works directly with students and higher education institutions.