Robert Morris University: An Institution of Excellence and Innovation
Robert Morris University (RMU) is a renowned private educational institution located in Moon Township, Pennsylvania. Celebrated for its rich history, robust academic curriculum, and dynamic campus life, RMU has carved a niche for itself in the world of higher education. This article delves into the various facets of RMU, providing a comprehensive insight into its history, academic structure, student life, and its remarkable contribution to sports and the community.
A Glimpse into the Past
RMU’s journey began in 1921 when it was founded as the Pittsburgh School of Accountancy. The institution, which initially focused solely on accountancy, gradually expanded its curriculum to include business and secretarial studies. Renamed as the Robert Morris School of Business in 1935, it paid homage to Robert Morris, the distinguished financier of the American Revolution.
The institution underwent several transformations over the years, evolving into Robert Morris Junior College in 1962, and later into Robert Morris College in 1969 when it started offering bachelor’s degrees in business administration. It eventually attained university status in 2002 and adopted its current name, Robert Morris University.
The Dynamic Campus
The heart of RMU lies in its 230-acre picturesque campus in Moon Township, a suburb of Pittsburgh. The campus houses various academic buildings, residence halls, a nondenominational chapel, and state-of-the-art athletic facilities. The Nicholson Center, the main campus building, is a hub of activity housing classrooms, faculty offices, meeting facilities, and a bookstore.
The School of Business building boasts of the PNC Trading Center and the United States Steel Corporation Video Conferencing and Technology Center. The newer Scaife Center is home to the Regional Research and Innovation in Simulation Education (RISE) Center. The campus also houses the John Jay Center, the abode of the School of Engineering, Mathematics, and Science.
Academics at RMU
RMU offers a diverse range of academic programs, with 60 undergraduate and 35 graduate degree programs. The university also offers 39 specialized certificate programs catering to the specific career goals of the students. The School of Engineering, Mathematics, and Science, for instance, is recognized as a Center of Actuarial Excellence by the Society of Actuaries. The School of Business, on the other hand, provides unique courses like the sport management course on WWE, examining the business and artistic aspects of live entertainment.
In a bid to support students from underrepresented groups pursuing careers in technology or math, Netflix co-founder and CEO Reed Hastings made a generous gift of $3 million in 2021 to fund 20 full scholarships for RMU Next Century Scholars.
Athletics and Sports
RMU has a vibrant sports culture, with its sports teams known as “the Colonials” participating in NCAA Division I. The Colonials compete in various sports, including basketball, football, golf, ice hockey, cross country, and soccer. The university’s dedicated commitment to sports is evident in the UPMC Events Center, the home ground for the basketball and volleyball teams, and also the Joe Walton Stadium, named after the university’s founding head football coach.
Notable Alumni
RMU boasts of an illustrious list of alumni who have made significant contributions to various fields. From rapper Olubowale Victor Akintimehin, known by his stage name Wale, to Charlie Batch, a motivational speaker and former Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback, and Robin R. Sanders, United States Ambassador to the Republic of the Congo and Nigeria, the alumni of RMU are a testament to the quality of education and opportunities the university provides.
Robert Morris University stands as an institution that not only imparts quality education but also fosters overall development of its students. With a rich history, a dynamic campus life, a robust curriculum, and a vibrant sports culture, RMU continues to make strides in the realm of higher education, shaping the leaders of tomorrow.
