The Mindanao State University – Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT) is the leading research-intensive university in the southern Philippines. It is one of the 11 campuses under the Mindanao State University system and carries a special mandate: to integrate the region’s cultural communities—particularly the Muslims and the Lumads—into the mainstream of the country’s socio-cultural and political life. This is done by providing them with access to quality, relevant education and skills development aimed at promoting the economic growth of Mindanao, Sulu (including Basilan and Tawi-Tawi), and Palawan.

Established in 1968, MSU-IIT has earned a reputation for excellence in science and technology, and for its strong commitment to the holistic development of Filipino youth through research, instruction, and community engagement.

The university offers a wide range of academic programs in fields such as science and mathematics, engineering and technology, business, nursing, the arts and social sciences, education, and information technology.

Recently, MSU-IIT was recognized as one of the top universities in Asia by Times Higher Education (THE), placing in the 601+ bracket and ranking as the second-highest among Philippine institutions on the list. In the THE World University Rankings, MSU-IIT placed in the 1501+ band, ranking third among Philippine universities. Notably, it was named the top Philippine university in the field of Physical Sciences, ranking within the global 801–1000 bracket.

MSU-IIT is also the leading institution in the southern Philippines in terms of academic program recognition. It holds the highest number of programs designated by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) as Centers of Excellence (COEs) and Centers of Development (CODs). Many of its programs have also attained Level IV accreditation status from the Accrediting Agency of Chartered Colleges and Universities in the Philippines (AACCUP).

The university is an active member of various national and international organizations, including the Asia Technological University Network (ATU-Net), and the ASEAN University Network – Southeast Asia Engineering Education Development Network (AUN/SEED-Net). Through its extensive research collaborations, academic partnerships, and cultural exchanges with institutions across Asia and Europe, MSU-IIT continues to expand its global presence and impact.