Central Mindanao University (CMU)

Central Mindanao University (CMU) is a sprawling scientific community often referred to as the “Academic Paradise of the South”. Known for its lush scenery, vast agricultural lands, and academic excellence, CMU remains one of the top-performing state universities in the Philippines.

Whether you are a prospective student, an alumnus, or an academic researcher, understanding CMU’s rich heritage and diverse offerings reveals why it is a premier destination for learning in Mindanao.

A Century of History

CMU’s journey began over a century ago, evolving from a humble farm school into a comprehensive university.

  • 1910: Established as the Mailag Industrial School in Mailag, Malaybalay, offering elementary agriculture courses.
  • 1918: Renamed the Bukidnon Agricultural School and relocated to Managok.
  • 1938: Became the Bukidnon National Agricultural School (BNAS).
  • 1946: After World War II, the school was transferred to its present site in Musuan, Maramag, Bukidnon to accommodate its growing needs.
  • 1952: Converted into Mindanao Agricultural College (MAC) through Republic Act No. 807, with Zosimo T. Montemayor as its first President.
  • 1965: Elevated to university status as Central Mindanao University under Republic Act No. 4498.

Today, the university stands on a distinct land grant of over 3,000 hectares, serving as a testament to its enduring legacy in agricultural and scientific education.

The Campus: A University Town

Unlike many universities that are scattered across city blocks, CMU is a contiguous University Town located in Musuan, Maramag, Bukidnon.

The campus is renowned for its biodiversity and landscape, featuring:

  • Musuan Peak: An active volcano and famous landmark providing a backdrop to the campus.
  • Mt. Musuan Zoological and Botanical Gardens: A hub for forestry and environmental research.
  • Experimental Fields: Vast tracts of land dedicated to agriculture, livestock, and forestry research.

While the university primarily operates from this main campus to maintain centralized quality and facility access, its “campus” experience is unique – offering a residential, nature-immersive environment for students and faculty.

Academic Excellence and Course Offerings

CMU is recognized by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) as a Center of Excellence (COE) and Center of Development (COD) in various disciplines.

Centers of Excellence & Development

  • COE: Agriculture, Forestry, Veterinary Medicine
  • COD: Biology, Mathematics, Teacher Education, Environmental Science

Colleges and Degree Programs

CMU offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs divided among several key colleges:

1. College of Agriculture

  • BS in Agriculture (Majors in Agronomy, Animal Science, Soil Science, etc.)
  • BS in Agribusiness Management

2. College of Forestry and Environmental Science

  • BS in Forestry
  • BS in Environmental Science

3. College of Veterinary Medicine

  • Doctor of Veterinary Medicine

4. College of Engineering

  • BS in Civil Engineering
  • BS in Electrical Engineering
  • BS in Mechanical Engineering
  • BS in Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering

5. College of Arts and Sciences

  • BS in Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics
  • BA in English, History, Political Science, Psychology, Sociology

6. College of Education

  • Bachelor of Secondary Education (various majors)
  • Bachelor of Elementary Education
  • Bachelor of Physical Education

7. College of Human Ecology

  • BS in Nutrition and Dietetics
  • BS in Food Technology
  • BS in Home Economics

8. College of Business and Management

  • BS in Accountancy
  • BS in Business Administration

9. College of Nursing

  • BS in Nursing

10. College of Information Sciences and Computing

  • BS in Information Technology
  • BS in Computer Science