Founded in 1870 as the Colorado Agricultural College, Colorado State University is now among the nation's leading research universities. Our world-class research in infectious disease, atmospheric science, clean energy technologies, environmental science, and biomedical technology attracted more than $300 million in research funding annually. Our professional programs in veterinary medicine, occupational therapy, journalism, agriculture and construction management are ranked among the nation's best. Colorado State is the "university of choice" for Colorado residents; 30% of all of Colorado's science, math, engineering and technology majors pursue degrees at CSU. To date, more than 230,000 undergraduate, graduate and professional degrees have been conferred at Colorado State, including more than 6,000 in 2011-2012. Our 184,586 living alumni are active in 27 geographic alumni groups representing 17 states (4 in Colorado and 23 out of state) and 16 common interest groups.In addition to tackling critical local and global issues, CSU faculty provide an enriching and rewarding student learning experience. The approach — based on the land-grant philosophy — combines intellectual classroom pursuits with hands-on experience in the field and laboratory. Colorado State's Student Leadership, Involvement and Community Engagement office hosts some of the strongest community-service programs in the country, with more than 6,000 students participating in university public outreach. CSU faculty played a significant role in the founding of the Peace Corps, and CSU remains one of the primary sources of Peace Corps volunteers today. Colorado State's rankings include its recognition as a top tier university in U.S. News and World Report's rankings of "America's Best Colleges and Universities," as well as Kiplinger's Personal Finance Magazine's ranking as one of the top public universities in the United States for educational quality and affordability.