Local discovery. Leading the way.

At the University of Minnesota Duluth (UMD), students do more than earn degrees—they launch careers, build community, and shape the future. 

Rowan Malmberg in a lab working with a pipette, wearing a maroon T-shirt and blue gloves, with another person using a laptop in the background.

Undergraduates tackle breast cancer

Experiential learning helps students gain a deeper understanding of a complex problem affecting many people, while making tangible contributions to develop better cancer treatments.

At the doctor's office with a patient wearing brain stimulator and matching card game therapy in foreground.

Research for stroke recovery

Post-stroke aphasia (a condition that impairs speaking and comprehension) affects two million Americans, and new research at UMD is helping them regain their voices.

A group of four people collaborate, examining wires near a laptop on a table. The space is industrial and well-lit.

Breaking down a worldwide problem

Each year, 92 million tons of textiles are thrown away, but new research at UMD is finding innovative ways to make these materials recyclable again.

Jerry Henneck and Craig Hill deploy the buoy into Lake Superior from a small boat

Catching waves

Increasing water safety and developing new ways to harness the power of Lake Superior are just two of exciting ways that UMD research is making a meaningful impact in our community.

96%
Employed or continuing education within a year of graduation.
$869.9M
Annual economic impact UMD brings to Minnesota
#1
UMD graduates earn more, first among Minnesota’s public universities.

A different perspective

Through her internship with Lake Superior Helicopters and leadership roles in Bulldog Rocketry, Jenna Whiting is gaining hands-on creative and technical skills that will propel her future career. 

A student rides in a helicopter above the Duluth harbor on a sunny day.

Dream destination

Hands-on experience combined with interdisciplinary learning equips students like Addison Severs with the technical, creative, and real-world problem solving skills that prepare them to thrive in today’s workforce. 

A student walks through a backdrop curtain and smiles at the camera.

State’s best beat reporter

UMD alum Kim Hyatt earns top honors from the Society of Professional Journalists for groundbreaking reporting that gives rural Minnesota a stronger voice and fosters statewide connection.

Kim Hyatt smiles by a window in Kirby Student Center

An education with real-world rewards

UMD educates the region’s next generation of engineers, designers, teachers, healthcare professionals, and problem‑solvers, helping meet the talent needs of leading employers like Cirrus Aircraft, Essentia Health, Altec, Minnesota Power, Barr Engineering, Cleveland‑Cliffs, Hormel, MnDOT, and many more.