Michigan State University
East Lansing, United States • Founded 1855 • World Rank #173
Updated Jun 2026
Overview
Founded in 1855, the Michigan State University is a non-profit public higher education institution located in the urban setting of the large town of East Lansing (population range of 10,000-49,999 inhabitants), Michigan.
Officially accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, Michigan State University (MSU) is a very large-sized coeducational US higher education institution. Michigan State University (MSU) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as pre-bachelor's degrees (i.e. certificates, diplomas, associate or foundation), bachelor's degrees, master's degrees and doctorate degrees in several areas of study.
This 169-year-old US higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations and students' past academic records and grades. The acceptance rate range is 80-89% making this US higher education organization a least selective institution.
International students are welcome to apply for enrollment.
MSU also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, housing, sports facilities, financial aids and/or scholarships, study abroad and exchange programs, online courses and distance learning opportunities, as well as administrative services.
Location & Contact
Below are the location pin, postal details, and primary contact methods for Michigan State University. International applicants should account for postal mail processing time when sending physical documents.
Academic Details
Academic statistics for Michigan State University — including its student body and academic staff numbers. Read these alongside rankings; institution scale changes how rankings should be interpreted.
Academic Structures
Below: how Michigan State University organises its faculties and constituent units. Distance learning programmes often sit in a separate division from on-campus teaching, with different administration.
Unit 19 items
- College of Agriculture and Natural Resources
- College of Arts and Letters
- College of Communication Arts and Sciences
- College of Education
- College of Engineering
- College of Human Medicine
- College of Law
- College of Music
- College of Natural Science
- College of Nursing
- College of Osteopathic Medicine
- College of Social Science
- College of Veterinary Medicine
- Eli Broad College of Business
- Eli Broad Graduate School of Management
- Honors College
- James Madison College
- Lyman Briggs College
- Residential College in the Arts and Humanities
Programs Offered
Michigan State University's programme list, with search and degree-level grouping. Search matches programme names; if you don't see your subject, check the divisions section to locate the relevant faculty.
350 programmes on record. Each level below shows a sample. Compare these on the programs page All programs in United States
Bachelor's Degree 105 programmes
Showing 10 of 105.
Master's Degree 109 programmes
Showing 10 of 109.
Doctorate 81 programmes
Showing 10 of 81.
Professional Doctorate 7 programmes
Certificate 9 programmes
Postgraduate Certificate 39 programmes
Showing 10 of 39.
How to apply to Michigan State University
Five steps that capture how most applications to Michigan State University flow, from research through submission to follow-up correspondence.
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1
Browse the programme catalogue
Begin by reviewing the programmes section above. Michigan State University offers 350 programmes grouped by qualification level. Decide on a target tier (bachelor's, master's, or doctoral) before narrowing by subject.
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2
Check eligibility for your chosen programme
Each programme at Michigan State University has its own entry requirements — academic minimums, language proficiency, supporting documents, and sometimes interviews or portfolios. Check the programme-specific page or contact admissions to confirm eligibility.
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3
Get your documents ready
Most applications require certified academic records, identification documents, language test certificates (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent for English-medium programmes), CV/résumé, and a statement of purpose. Allow extra time for document authentication.
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4
Apply through the official channel
Apply directly via Michigan State University's online portal at msu.edu. Complete the application form, upload supporting documents, and pay any application fee. Confirmation emails typically arrive within a few business days.
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5
Reach out and track your application
After submitting, confirm receipt with the admissions office and track your application status through the portal. Reach the institution by phone at +1 (517) 355 1855. Set reminders for any interview requests, additional document submissions, or admission decision deadlines.
Frequently Asked Questions about Michigan State University
Concise answers to the most-searched questions about Michigan State University, useful as a quick orientation before exploring the rest of the profile.
In what year was Michigan State University established?
Michigan State University was founded in 1855 (approximately 171 years ago).
Where is Michigan State University located?
Michigan State University is located in East Lansing, United States.
Is Michigan State University public or private?
Michigan State University is a public institution.
What is the student enrolment at Michigan State University?
Student enrolment at Michigan State University is around 45,000-49,999.
What is Michigan State University's ranking?
It ranks #173 globally and #43 in United States.
How many faculties does Michigan State University have?
The institution comprises 19 academic units.
Who recognises Michigan State University?
The institution holds recognition from Higher Learning Commission.
How do I find Michigan State University online?
Michigan State University's official website is msu.edu.
Top-Ranked Universities in the United States
When shortlisting in the United States, students often start with the top-ranked institutions. Below are the national leaders worth comparing against Michigan State University, helpful for calibrating where Michigan State University sits in the broader landscape.
Members of Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA)
Joint research grants among Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA) members create funded collaborations that often extend to graduate-student opportunities. The network listed below collaborates regularly with Michigan State University.
Faculties at nearby universities
Looking at higher education options close to Michigan State University? These nearby campuses share similar academic structures and may suit students prioritising proximity to home or family. Regional ties also affect access to internships and local employer networks.
Where Else to Study Agriculture
Industry advisory boards on Agriculture programmes signal employer engagement and curriculum currency. Check whether each the United States alternative to Michigan State University publishes its industry partners.
Universities Compared with Michigan State University
Students considering Michigan State University frequently compare it against the universities listed below. The comparison set reflects revealed-preference data from how applicants actually build shortlists.
Studying in United States: guides and resources
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