The history of Universitas Muhammadiyah Jakarta (UMJ) is a testament to the commitment of Muhammadiyah to advance education in Indonesia. The journey began with a decision made at the Muhammadiyah Education Council Conference in Pekalongan, leading to the establishment of the Faculty of Law and Philosophy in Padang Panjang. This faculty officially opened on Rabi’ul Akhir 3, 1375 H, corresponding to November 18, 1955.
In 1956, the faculty was relocated to Jakarta and renamed Perguruan Tinggi Pendidikan Guru (PTPG). This institution was inaugurated on November 18, 1975. By 1958, PTPG Muhammadiyah evolved into the Faculty of Teacher Training and Education (FKIP) under the auspices of Universitas Muhammadiyah Jakarta (UMJ). Dr. H. Ali Akbar became the university’s first president, while RH. Mubangit Ronodihardjo was appointed as the first dean of FKIP.
Expansion of Academic Offerings by Universitas Muhammadiyah Jakarta
UMJ expanded its academic offerings significantly over the years. On September 21, 1961, the Faculty of Social Welfare (FKS) was established, initiated by the then Minister of Social Affairs, Mulyadi Djojomartono. The first dean of FKS was Prof. Mr. H. Sumantri Praptokuso, who was serving as the Secretary General of the Department of Social Affairs at the time.
In 1962, UMJ added the Faculty of Tarbiyah, followed by three more faculties in 1963: the Faculty of Law, the Faculty of Engineering, and the Faculty of Economics. On June 19, 1963, UMJ’s establishment was officially recognized through a notarial deed by Raden Soerojo Wongsowidjojo in Jakarta.
Continued Growth and Accreditation
Today, UMJ boasts ten faculties and one graduate school, which include the Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, Faculty of Law, Faculty of Economics and Business, Faculty of Engineering, Faculty of Islamic Studies, Faculty of Agriculture, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Faculty of Education, Faculty of Nursing, and Faculty of Public Health. The university also operates a postgraduate school.
On March 5, 2024, UMJ received institutional accreditation with the highest rating of “UNGGUL” (excellent) from the National Accreditation Board for Higher Education (BAN-PT) as per Decision No. 163/SK/BAN-PT/Ak/PT/III/2024. This milestone underscores UMJ’s commitment to providing high-quality education and solidifies its standing as a leading educational institution in Indonesia.
Vision and Mission
UMJ’s vision is “To be Prominent, Modern, and Islamic by 2025.” This vision drives the university’s mission to achieve excellence in education, teaching, research, community service, and the practice of Islamic values. UMJ aims to:
- Achieve excellence in the fields of education, teaching, research, community service, and Islamic values.
- Utilize information technology in education, teaching, research, community service, and Islamic values.
- Enhance the performance of human resources in implementing the university’s four duties (catur dharma).
- Develop students to become graduates who are faithful, pious, morally upright, and globally minded.
Faculties at Universitas Muhammadiyah Jakarta
UMJ has an array of faculties offering diverse academic programs to cater to various interests and career aspirations:
- Faculty of Social and Political Sciences: Provides programs focused on social sciences, political studies, and related disciplines.
- Faculty of Law: Offers comprehensive legal education and training.
- Faculty of Economics and Business: Prepares students for careers in business, management, and economics.
- Faculty of Engineering: Focuses on various engineering disciplines, promoting innovation and technical skills.
- Faculty of Islamic Studies: Emphasizes Islamic teachings and their application in modern contexts.
- Faculty of Agriculture: Covers agricultural sciences and technologies, addressing the needs of the agricultural sector.
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences: Provides education and training in medical and health sciences.
- Faculty of Education: Prepares future educators with the skills and knowledge required for teaching.
- Faculty of Nursing: Trains students in nursing and healthcare practices.
- Faculty of Public Health: Focuses on public health issues, policies, and practices.
Achieving Excellence and International Recognition
Under the leadership of Dr. Agussani, M.AP, UMJ has seen significant improvements in governance and academic administration. The development of UMJ’s Information System, in collaboration with Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta, has facilitated greater involvement of parents in their children’s education.
The construction of a new seven-story postgraduate building on Jalan Denai is part of the university’s effort to accommodate the growing demand for higher education. This development aligns with UMJ’s goal of becoming an internationally recognized university by 2033. The establishment of the Office of International Affairs aims to build networks with partner universities abroad, supporting UMJ’s mission to go global.
The history of Universitas Muhammadiyah Jakarta is marked by its commitment to providing quality education based on Islamic values. From its humble beginnings to its current status as a leading educational institution, UMJ continues to play a pivotal role in advancing the educational landscape of Indonesia. The university’s dedication to excellence, innovation, and community service ensures that it will continue to produce outstanding graduates who contribute positively to society.