He attended Robert Gordon's College in Aberdeen, Scotland winning a Classics Gold Medal in 1899.

[2] In 1908, Michie returned to the University of Aberdeen, and became an assistant to the Professor of Humanity, Sir William Ramsay.

[2] In 1910, Michie applied for and was appointed to the chair in Classics at the newly established University of Queensland in Brisbane, Australia.

[1] Michie was kept busy in his first years at the university, designing the Classics Honour program and doing much of the teaching of classes.

His nickname was "Michie Mouse", in reference to his quiet nature rather than stature, as he was very tall and had trouble fitting around tables during class.

[2] His shy nature and lack of confidence in public speaking was noticed, but he was generally thought of as the "rock" of the university.

He was well liked by his students, being kind, courteous and shy, but rarely spoke at public events, and had little time to publish.

[1] He and fellow Professors Alcock and Lusby were also involved in the university's extension courses in 1922, offered at five shillings a meeting.