Michigan State University

Michigan State University (MSU) is a public research university located in East Lansing, Michigan, United States. Founded in 1855 as the Agricultural College of the State of Michigan, it was one of the first institutions in the country to teach scientific agriculture. Over the years, MSU has grown into one of the largest universities in the United States, with a strong reputation for academic excellence, research, and innovation.

MSU is known for its diverse academic programs, offering more than 200 undergraduate, graduate, and professional degree programs across 17 degree-granting colleges. The university is particularly renowned for its programs in business, education, engineering, and agriculture. The Eli Broad College of Business, the College of Education, and the College of Engineering are among the top-ranked schools in the nation.

As a member of the Association of American Universities (AAU), MSU is recognized for its commitment to research and innovation. The university receives significant funding for research in various fields, including health sciences, environmental studies, and technology. MSU is home to the Facility for Rare Isotope Beams (FRIB), a world-class nuclear science research facility that attracts scientists from around the globe.

The university has a vibrant campus life, with more than 900 student organizations, a strong Greek life presence, and numerous cultural and recreational activities. MSU’s athletic teams, known as the Spartans, compete in the Big Ten Conference, and the university has a rich tradition in college sports, particularly in football and basketball.

MSU is also committed to sustainability and community engagement. The university has implemented various initiatives to promote environmental responsibility, including green building projects, recycling programs, and sustainable agriculture research. Additionally, MSU has a strong focus on global outreach, with study abroad programs in more than 60 countries and partnerships with institutions worldwide.

With a student population of over 50,000, including students from all 50 U.S. states and more than 130 countries, MSU fosters a diverse and inclusive learning environment. The university’s alumni network includes notable figures in business, politics, sports, and entertainment.

Michigan State University continues to be a leader in education, research, and public service, making a significant impact both locally and globally.

• College of Agriculture and Natural Resources

  The first college established at the nation’s pioneer land-grant institution, the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources at MSU has been pioneering advancements in agricultural and natural resources research, scholarship, and outreach for more than 160 years. The college provides innovative leadership in science, technology, design, management, biofuels, the bioeconomy, and global agriculture. Students learn to use the principles of science, technology, engineering, mathematics, business, and creative design in tackling some of the world’s biggest problems related to food, energy, and the environment. The wide selection of academic programs and career pathways include food, nutrition, and their applications to health; community, family, and youth development; agricultural production; technology, management, and design; food processing; biofuels, the bioeconomy, globalization, international development, and sustainability.

• College of Arts & Letters

  Students in the College of Arts & Letters explore human expression, human experience, and human values through a wide variety of disciplinary subjects, as well as through interdisciplinary study. The college hosts many majors and minors in literatures, languages, global religions, cultures, philosophy, arts, design, digital media, and theatre. Faculty and students represent diverse backgrounds and cultures and work together to challenge past assumptions and set future directions in the arts and humanities. Beyond traditional course work, the college provides student and faculty collaboration, interdisciplinary course offerings in the liberal arts, and opportunities to engage the greater MSU community as well as those outside of campus. Engaged and forward-thinking faculty and scholars educate students and bring public focus to the arts and humanities as the threads that weave together numerous shared cultures and traditions.

• College of Communication Arts and Sciences

  The College of Communication Arts and Sciences, the first of its kind in the nation, pushes the boundaries of communication research and teaching to improve lives and promote democratic values.  Working side by side, students and faculty discover and explore the next communication frontiers. Its work is vital to understanding how people communicate effectively with each other to increase productivity, reduce health and safety risks, and improve quality of life around the world. The college hosts international conferences, leads federally funded research projects and cross-college collaborations, and offers ever-expanding opportunities for students, including study abroad, internships, and participation in national competitions. 

• College of Education

  The College of Education has established a reputation for excellence and visionary thinking in its efforts to improve teaching and learning across the nation and world, particularly within the contexts of urban and global education. Faculty members in the college are committed to addressing the educational and physical needs of all learners and to working closely with educators, leaders, and policymakers in the field. With an intensive five-year teacher preparation program, rigorous undergraduate study in kinesiology and athletic training, and several nationally ranked graduate programs, the College of Education prepares leaders ready to make an impact on learning and human development around the world. 

• Eli Broad College of Business and the Eli Broad Graduate School of Management

  Among the largest business schools in the nation and consistently ranked among the top business schools in the country, the Eli Broad College of Business and the Eli Broad Graduate School of Management, commonly referred to as the Broad College, have been accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International since 1953. The Broad College offers seven undergraduate majors, a Full-Time and Executive MBA, seven specialized master’s programs, seven doctoral programs, as well as an array of executive education programs and online certificates for business professionals. Faculty in the college are award-winning teachers and researchers, editors and reviewers of top journals, and former executives whose efforts combine in numerous research centers targeting specific topics for focused inquiry and in experiential labs that provide real-world opportunities for students.

• College of Engineering

  The College of Engineering prepares students to solve technical, as well as social, economic, and global problems while instilling the essence of engineering as the iterative process of designing, predicting performance, building, and testing. The college’s engineering programs provide future engineers with firm knowledge and understanding of the fundamental engineering sciences, engineering methods for the application of this knowledge, and the project management and communications skills to bring designs to fruition. Programs require a strong base in mathematics, computing, and the sciences as the tools of the engineer. An engineering education provides a teams-based, systems approach to societal problems and therefore prepares students for a wide range of career options, including those outside engineering. 

• Graduate School

  The MSU Graduate School serves as an advocate for graduate education to the university and beyond, and works to enhance the quality of graduate education at Michigan State University in all its diverse dimensions.

• Honors College

  The Honors College at Michigan State University is one of the nation’s most distinctive and extensive honors programs, serving talented, committed students who wish to pursue and achieve academic excellence. The college strives to ensure an enriched academic, social, and cultural experience for its members and create an environment that fosters active, innovative learning. It emphasizes individualized program planning rather than a tightly prescribed set of courses. Honors College members have the opportunity and are encouraged to design their own individualized programs of study; enroll in dynamic Honors classes, interactive seminars, and graduate courses; participate in faculty-led research projects; and join with other Honors College students who share their curiosity and enthusiasm to enjoy the intimacy of a small college along with the advantages of a major research university.

• College of Human Medicine

  The College of Human Medicine is committed to educating exemplary physicians and scholars, discovering and disseminating new knowledge, and providing critical health services at home and abroad. The college’s footprint spans the state of Michigan and beyond, enhancing communities by providing outstanding primary and specialty care, promoting the dignity and inclusion of all people, and responding to the needs of the medically underserved. Founded in 1964, the College of Human Medicine is nationally recognized as one of the nation's pioneers of community-based medical education. Clinical practice, research, and undergraduate and graduate medical education take place across seven campuses through affiliations with local hospitals, physicians, and other health care providers.

• James Madison College

  James Madison College provides a liberal education in public affairs for undergraduates. The college is dedicated to the highest standards of excellence, both for students and for faculty and staff. The curriculum and individual courses are multidisciplinary, cultivating in students the skills of rigorous thought, lucid prose writing, and articulate speech. The residential environment nurtures a collegium of scholars among students, faculty, and staff. The world-class resources of the wider university enrich the program as a whole. James Madison College was established in 1967. Since then the college has graduated numerous Rhodes, Truman, Marshall, and Fulbright Scholars, National Science Foundation Fellows, MSU’s first Mitchell Scholar, and regularly represents a high percentage of Michigan State University's Phi Beta Kappa class.

• College of Law

  The MSU College of Law, formerly the Detroit College of Law, leads cutting-edge initiatives focused on ethics, human rights, and entrepreneurial lawyering that provide rich learning opportunities and fuel the college’s upward trajectory of national and international reputation and reach. MSU Law offers a comprehensive curriculum that is constantly evaluated with an eye toward emerging trends to ensure graduates are ready to take on the latest challenges in the field of law. Students can customize their education from among 14 focus areas, 10 clinical programs, hundreds of externship locations, five study abroad programs, and more. MSU Law’s integration with Michigan State University also allows students to complement legal studies with a variety of cross-disciplinary courses and dual-degree programs.

• Lyman Briggs College

  The Lyman Briggs College is a residential college that bridges the gap between science and the humanities through interdisciplinary teaching and research. It provides students with a fundamental core science education in mathematics, chemistry, biology, and physics. The core program also addresses historical, philosophical, and societal concerns and consequences of modern science, technology, the environment, and medicine. The majority of Lyman Briggs students pursue programs leading to advanced graduate study in the natural sciences or professional programs related to medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine, allied health, education, or law. The philosophy of inclusion and innovative teaching methods at Lyman Briggs College have attracted internationally recognized faculty and staff from a variety of disciplines.

• College of Music

  The College of Music is recognized as a leader for its innovative approach to nurturing musical excellence, training musicians who perform on the world’s most prestigious concert stages and developing outstanding educators and scholars who make a difference across the nation and around the globe. The college is a training ground for composers, conductors, educators, performers, and scholars who build on its record of international accomplishments in performance and national reputation of innovative music education. Students study with world-renowned musicians, scholars, educators, and composers who bring exceptional skill and experience to their art. The faculty’s numerous awards, publications, and outstanding performances around the globe reflect their commitment to musical excellence. 

• College of Natural Science

  The College of Natural Science promotes excellence in research, teaching, and public service across the biological, physical, and mathematical sciences. Its innovative undergraduate and graduate programs prepare students to be leaders in an increasingly sophisticated scientific and technological society. These programs grow and evolve in an environment that values multidisciplinary and cross-college collaborations and builds on the advantages that a diverse student body brings to a dynamic community of scholars. Steadfast in its land-grant mission, the college strives to enhance student learning, promote basic scientific understanding of nature, and develop the technical and human resources necessary to address the current and future needs of society.

• College of Nursing

  The mission of Michigan State University’s College of Nursing is to enhance the health of communities by providing excellence in nursing education, research, and practice. Spartan nurses worldwide improve outcomes in chronic illness, healthy lifestyles, and the health and wellbeing of individuals and their families. Across all ranks, faculty in the college receive support for their research from several NIH institutes. Current scientific and interdisciplinary research strengths include cancer, gerontology, physical activity, nutrition, chronic illness management, and obesity and associated conditions. The college offers an undergraduate program leading to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and graduate programs leading to the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), and the Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD). 

• College of Osteopathic Medicine

  The Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine (MSUCOM) is committed to excellence in osteopathic education, research, international outreach, and service. Faculty researchers explore treatments and cures for some of the most pressing health challenges facing humankind while preparing future physicians to respond to public need in a dynamic health care environment. The college provides a professional osteopathic physician educational program leading to the Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree, as well as Master of Science (MS) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree programs. The college also offers a dual-degree program that allows students who wish to become medical scientists to pursue a DO and a PhD simultaneously. MSUCOM is integrated with 47 Michigan community hospitals and 31 federally qualified health centers in the Statewide Campus System for pre- and postdoctoral education. 

• Residential College in the Arts and Humanities

  The Residential College in the Arts and Humanities (RCAH) is an interdisciplinary college offering a Bachelor of Arts degree in arts and humanities for students interested in the growing global connections between literature, history, ethics, culture, world languages, the visual and performing arts, and civic engagement. Its faculty, staff, and visiting artists are committed to teaching and to scholarship that enhances the collaborative learning process. RCAH students live and learn together in the historic Snyder-Phillips Hall. From this home base, students can explore the diverse resources of one of the nation’s most distinguished public research universities. They also learn to communicate and navigate within the evolving cultures of the contemporary world through study abroad and study away programs.

• College of Social Science

  The College of Social Science at Michigan State University is a community of scholars committed to creating, disseminating, and applying knowledge in the social, behavioral, and economic sciences. The college is the largest and among the most diverse at MSU and offers 13 major disciplines. Nearly 400 tenured and tenure-stream faculty provide instructional, research, and outreach services within its eight departments, three schools, and seven centers and institutes. Scholars in the college are diverse and dynamic intellectual leaders who seek to understand and address the myriad challenges facing our world at local and global scales through collaborative learning and responsive engagement with people and communities. 

• College of Veterinary Medicine

  One of the oldest veterinary colleges in the nation, the MSU College of Veterinary Medicine serves as an essential resource for the state of Michigan and the world. It provides unparalleled training for future veterinarians, world-class care for animals, and groundbreaking research aimed at attaining better health for animal and human populations. The college is organized into six departments: Large Animal Clinical Sciences, Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation, Pharmacology and Toxicology, Physiology, and Small Animal Clinical Sciences. The Veterinary Medical Center provides expert care to animals in need, treating more than 20,000 small animal patients per year and more than 2,000 large animals. The college also is home to the Diagnostic Center for Population and Animal Health—one of the leading veterinary diagnostic labs in the world—and several research centers. 

Michigan State University (MSU) was founded in 1855 as the Agricultural College of the State of Michigan. It was the first institution of higher education in the United States to teach scientific agriculture. The university served as a model for the Morrill Act of 1862, which established land-grant universities across the country. In 1861, the college changed its name to the State Agricultural College, and in 1863, it became the first land-grant institution in the nation to offer a curriculum that combined practical and scientific education.

In 1909, the institution was renamed Michigan Agricultural College (MAC), reflecting its growing academic programs. By 1925, it became Michigan State College of Agriculture and Applied Science, and in 1955, it was officially named Michigan State University. Over the years, MSU expanded its academic offerings beyond agriculture, becoming a comprehensive research university.

During the mid-20th century, MSU played a significant role in higher education reform and research. Under the leadership of President John A. Hannah (1941–1969), the university grew rapidly, increasing enrollment and expanding its campus. MSU also became a leader in international education, establishing programs in countries such as Brazil, Nigeria, and South Korea.

Today, Michigan State University is one of the top public research universities in the United States. It is known for its strong programs in business, education, engineering, and agriculture. The university is also home to the Facility for Rare Isotope Beams (FRIB), a leading nuclear science research center. MSU's athletic teams, known as the Spartans, compete in the Big Ten Conference and have won multiple national championships in various sports.

With a commitment to innovation, research, and global engagement, Michigan State University continues to be a leader in higher education, shaping the future through its academic programs and groundbreaking discoveries.

Michigan State University (MSU) has specific admission requirements for undergraduate and graduate applicants. The admission process varies depending on the applicant's status as a domestic or international student.

For undergraduate admissions, MSU requires applicants to submit an online application through the Common Application or MSU’s own application portal. Students must provide high school transcripts, standardized test scores (SAT or ACT, though MSU has adopted a test-optional policy), a personal statement, and letters of recommendation. The university looks for students with a strong academic background, typically with a GPA of 3.5 or higher. International students must also demonstrate English proficiency through TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo English Test scores.

Graduate admissions at MSU vary by program, but generally, applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. They need to submit an online application, official transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and standardized test scores such as the GRE or GMAT, depending on the program. International applicants must also meet English language proficiency requirements. Some programs may require additional materials, such as a portfolio or an interview.

MSU has a holistic admissions process, meaning that in addition to academic achievements, extracurricular activities, leadership experience, and personal qualities are considered. The university encourages early applications, as some programs have limited space. The application deadlines vary, with early action typically in November and regular decision deadlines in February.

For financial aid, MSU offers scholarships, grants, and work-study opportunities. International students may also apply for merit-based scholarships. The university provides resources to help students navigate the application process, including admissions counselors and virtual information sessions.

Overall, Michigan State University seeks students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and a commitment to their community. The admissions process is competitive, and applicants are encouraged to submit strong applications that highlight their achievements and aspirations.

Michigan State University (MSU) is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), a regional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. The university has maintained continuous accreditation since 1922, ensuring that its academic programs meet high standards of quality and rigor. Accreditation by the HLC signifies that MSU meets established criteria for institutional effectiveness, governance, financial stability, and student learning outcomes.

In addition to institutional accreditation, many of MSU’s individual colleges, departments, and programs hold specialized accreditations from professional organizations. For example, the Eli Broad College of Business is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), which is a prestigious accreditation for business schools worldwide. The College of Education is accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP), ensuring that its teacher preparation programs meet national standards. Similarly, the College of Engineering holds accreditation from the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET), which is essential for engineering and technology programs.

The accreditation process involves periodic self-studies, peer reviews, and site visits to assess the university’s adherence to accreditation standards. MSU undergoes regular reviews to maintain its accreditation status, demonstrating its commitment to continuous improvement and academic excellence. Accreditation also plays a crucial role in the university’s ability to receive federal funding, including financial aid for students.

Furthermore, MSU’s medical and health-related programs are accredited by specialized agencies. The College of Human Medicine and the College of Osteopathic Medicine are accredited by the Liaison Committee on Medical Education (LCME) and the Commission on Osteopathic College Accreditation (COCA), respectively. The College of Nursing is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), ensuring that nursing graduates meet professional standards.

Accreditation is essential for students, as it ensures that their degrees are recognized by employers and other institutions. It also facilitates the transfer of credits between accredited institutions. MSU’s commitment to maintaining accreditation reflects its dedication to providing high-quality education and fostering academic excellence.

For more information about Michigan State University’s accreditation status, students and stakeholders can visit the university’s official website or the Higher Learning Commission’s website.

Michigan State University (MSU) offers a vibrant student life with numerous opportunities for academic, social, and personal growth. The university, located in East Lansing, Michigan, is home to over 50,000 students, creating a diverse and dynamic campus environment.

One of the key aspects of student life at MSU is its wide range of student organizations. With over 900 registered student organizations, students can find clubs and groups that match their interests, whether in academics, sports, arts, or social causes. The Associated Students of Michigan State University (ASMSU) serves as the undergraduate student government, advocating for student needs and organizing events.

MSU also has a strong Greek life presence, with more than 60 fraternities and sororities. These organizations provide students with leadership opportunities, community service projects, and social events. Greek life plays a significant role in fostering friendships and networking opportunities.

The university offers various housing options, including residence halls, apartments, and off-campus housing. The residence halls are divided into neighborhoods, each with its own dining halls, study spaces, and recreational facilities. Living on campus allows students to engage in community-building activities and easily access university resources.

Athletics are an essential part of student life at MSU. The Michigan State Spartans compete in the NCAA Division I Big Ten Conference, and sports like football and basketball attract large crowds. Spartan Stadium and the Breslin Center are popular venues where students gather to support their teams. Intramural and club sports also provide opportunities for students to stay active and compete in various sports.

MSU’s campus is filled with cultural and recreational opportunities. The Wharton Center for Performing Arts hosts concerts, theater performances, and lectures. The Broad Art Museum showcases contemporary art, while the MSU Museum offers exhibits on history and science. Students can also enjoy the university’s extensive green spaces, including the Red Cedar River, which runs through campus.

Dining at MSU is another highlight of student life. The university has multiple dining halls offering diverse meal options, including vegetarian, vegan, and international cuisine. Sparty’s convenience stores and various cafes provide additional food choices for students on the go.

Career development is a priority at MSU, with the Career Services Network offering resume workshops, job fairs, and internship opportunities. The university’s strong alumni network helps students connect with professionals in their fields of interest.

Overall, student life at Michigan State University is rich with opportunities for engagement, personal development, and fun. Whether through academics, extracurricular activities, or social events, MSU provides a supportive and exciting environment for students to thrive.

Michigan State University (MSU) offers a wide range of services and facilities to support students beyond lectures and seminars. The university provides extensive academic resources, including libraries, study spaces, and tutoring centers. The MSU Libraries system includes the Main Library and several specialized libraries, offering access to books, research materials, and quiet study areas. The Writing Center and Math Learning Center provide tutoring and academic support to help students succeed in their coursework.

For health and wellness, MSU has the Olin Health Center, which offers medical services, mental health counseling, and wellness programs. The Counseling & Psychiatric Services (CAPS) provides mental health support, including individual and group therapy. Recreational facilities include the IM Sports facilities, which offer gyms, swimming pools, fitness classes, and intramural sports programs. The university also has outdoor recreational areas, including trails and parks for walking, running, and biking.

Housing and dining services at MSU provide on-campus living options with residence halls and apartment-style housing. The Culinary Services department operates multiple dining halls and cafes, offering a variety of meal options, including vegetarian and vegan choices. The university also has student organizations and cultural centers, such as the Office of Cultural & Academic Transitions (OCAT) and the MSU Union, which host events and provide spaces for student engagement.

Career services at MSU help students with job searches, resume building, and interview preparation. The Career Services Network offers career counseling, internship opportunities, and job fairs. Additionally, MSU provides transportation services, including campus buses and bike-sharing programs, to help students navigate the large campus.

Overall, Michigan State University offers a comprehensive range of facilities and services to enhance student life, ensuring academic success, personal well-being, and professional development.

Michigan State University (MSU) is one of the top public research universities in the United States, offering world-class education, cutting-edge research opportunities, and a vibrant campus life. Here are a few reasons why students should choose MSU:

1. Academic Excellence – MSU is known for its strong academic programs, including highly ranked colleges such as the Eli Broad College of Business, the College of Engineering, and the College of Education. The university offers more than 200 undergraduate, graduate, and professional degree programs.

2. Research Opportunities – As a leading research institution, MSU provides students with access to groundbreaking research in fields such as agriculture, health sciences, engineering, and environmental sustainability. The university is home to the Facility for Rare Isotope Beams (FRIB), a world-class nuclear science research facility.

3. Global Impact – MSU has a strong commitment to global engagement, with study abroad programs in more than 60 countries. The university also collaborates with international organizations to address global challenges in health, education, and sustainability.

4. Campus and Student Life – The MSU campus in East Lansing is one of the largest in the U.S., offering state-of-the-art facilities, beautiful green spaces, and a welcoming community. Students can participate in over 900 student organizations, including academic clubs, cultural groups, and recreational activities.

5. Strong Alumni Network – MSU has a vast network of successful alumni who have made significant contributions in various industries, including business, politics, sports, and entertainment. This network provides students with valuable career connections and mentorship opportunities.

6. Athletics and School Spirit – MSU is home to the Spartans, a powerhouse in NCAA Division I athletics. The university has a strong tradition in football, basketball, and other sports, creating an exciting and spirited campus atmosphere.

7. Commitment to Sustainability – MSU is a leader in sustainability initiatives, with programs focused on renewable energy, environmental conservation, and sustainable agriculture. The university is dedicated to creating a greener future through research and campus initiatives.

With its strong academic reputation, diverse opportunities, and supportive community, Michigan State University is an excellent choice for students looking to achieve their academic and professional goals.