The University of Michigan is a top ranked research institution, with internationally recognized faculty, small class sizes, tremendous athletic and co-curricular programs, and provides an exceptional return on investment for its students. Founded in Detroit in 1817, the University of Michigan moved to Ann Arbor in 1837 and began enrolling students in 1841, making it the oldest institution of higher education in Michigan and one of the earliest research universities in the United States. Women were allowed to enroll as of 1870. Today over 45,000 students are enrolled at the Ann Arbor, Dearborn and Flint campuses and over 30,000 employees make the University one of Michigan's top 5 largest employers.
The Bentley Historical Library, a vital part of the University of Michigan, is dedicated to collecting and promoting the study of the histories of the State of Michigan and the University of Michigan. Open to the public without fee, the Library welcomes researchers of all backgrounds. With over 11,000 research collections, including the papers of Michigan governors, records of student and faculty life, and the complete historical archive of Michigan's intercollegiate athletics, the Bentley provides a rich resource for historical research. The Library features a state-of-the-art conservation lab where expert archivists and conservators teach and preserve materials such as books, maps, and architectural drawings.