Founding & Mission
The University of Manitoba, established in 1877, holds the distinction of being Western Canada’s first university. As a public research institution, its mission is rooted in producing high-impact research, fostering academic excellence, and serving both local and global communities through education and innovation. Its branding and identity also emphasize a commitment to reconciliation, diversity, and long-term societal growth. 

Academic Structure & Programs
U of M is a comprehensive institution with more than 250 programs across undergraduate, graduate, and professional studies. It has 13 faculties, 4 schools, and 9 colleges, covering disciplines like engineering, medicine, law, business, arts, science, and health sciences. The university also offers a “University 1” (U1) program, which allows first-year students to explore different fields before choosing a major. Research is a major focus: U of M hosts over 50 research centers and institutes, many Canada Research Chairs, and invests heavily in interdisciplinary work.

Campus & Student Life
U of M’s main campus (Fort Garry) is large and leafy, with a blend of historic and modern architecture. It also has a downtown campus (Bannatyne) for health sciences. Student life at U of M is vibrant: there are many student clubs, cultural organizations, and support services for international students. According to its enrollment data, nearly a quarter of students are international, contributing to a multicultural campus community.The university also has strong experiential learning: co-op programs, internships, and exchange partnerships are widely available. 

Community & Impact
As a major research-intense university, U of M contributes significantly to Manitoba’s economy and society. It has produced many prominent alumni, including Rhodes Scholars, and has a wide global alumni network. The institution also emphasizes sustainability and social responsibility, demonstrated by its strong performance in UN SDG-aligned impact rankings.