2001-2002 Undergraduate Catalog General Information - The University

New Mexico State University is the state's land-grant university, serving the educational needs of New Mexico's diverse population through comprehensive programs of education, research, extension education, and public service.

New Mexico State University was founded in 1888 as Las Cruces College and later renamed New Mexico College of Agriculture and Mechanic Arts. In 1960, the constitution of New Mexico formally recognized the institution as New Mexico State University. Throughout its history, the university has preserved many of the traditions of its land-grant origin while also increasing emphasis on the fine arts, humanities, social and natural sciences. Today, New Mexico State University is a major institution of higher education.