Three annual publications with directories consolidated to form the Michiganensian in 1896; The Res Gestae, which was law- and academic-focused, the Palladium, which was literary with a focus on secret societies, and the Castalian, which was literary-focused.

[2] Some editions of the Michiganensian as recently as the 1980s include articles about and the published names of members of the controversial secret society Michigamua.

[6][7] In its earliest form, the Michiganensian served as an illustrated directory, providing information on organizations, fraternities, and athletics.

[9] The 2021 Michiganensian included a statement from the editorial board criticizing the University of Michigan administration and President Mark Schlissel for their handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and standing in solidarity with marginalized populations and student activists on campus in the wake of the George Floyd protests.

The 125th issue also split with precedent by including limited fraternity and sorority coverage, amid student criticism of secret societies on campus and a nationwide 'Abolish Greek Life' movement.