For over 130 years, MSU has been an important part of the higher education system in Baltimore City, the State of Maryland, and the nation. Throughout its history, MSU has served the community with distinction while meeting the educational needs of an increasingly diverse society. Its designation as Maryland's Public Urban University assures that MSU will continue to play a prominent role in Maryland's education future. MSU attracts students from all 50 states and numerous foreign countries. About 35% of all students enrolled at MSU are from outside the State of Maryland. It is one of the leading institutions nationally in the number of applications received from African-American high school graduates.