Academic Programs Catalog

Leo Zulu, Director

Siddharth Chandra, Director

Rebecca Malouin, Director

The Canadian Studies Center is a multidisciplinary unit with over 70 faculty and graduate students representing over 30 departments, the MSU Libraries, and the Michigan State University Museum. The center’s mission is derived from MSU’s land-grant ethic of teaching, research, and outreach. Since its inception in 1958 as a faculty interest group, the Canadian Studies Center has become a major generator of scholarship related to Canada in the United States. MSU faculty offer a broad array of courses, both undergraduate and graduate, and are involved in diverse research and outreach activities focusing on Canada and its relations with the United States, Latin America, the Pacific Basin, and Europe.

In partnership with the Canada-U.S. Fulbright program, the center hosts an annual senior Canadian Visiting Scholar and regularly arranges visits to campus of distinguished Canadian scholars, government personnel, and artists who lecture in courses, conduct seminars and colloquia, and consult with students and faculty. The annual CN Forum on Canada-U.S. Relations provides an opportunity for students and government and business leaders from Michigan and Ontario to meet with national leaders as conferences, film series, and art exhibits are presented.

The center supports the Freshman Seminar Abroad in Quebec City and seeks to make resources available to Michigan public schools and programs. In addition, center faculty consult with the private and public sector on issues affecting Canada and maintain inter-institutional relationships with Canadian universities. The MSU Libraries rank among the top ten U.S. libraries in its support of Canadian Studies programs, and the MSU Press is a major U.S. publisher of scholarly books and monographs on Canada.

For more information, call 1-517-353-9349, email csc@msu.edu, or visit canadianstudies.isp.msu.edu.

Volodymyr Tarabara, Director

Michigan State University offers a wide variety of undergraduate and graduate courses relating to Europe, Eurasia, and the former Soviet Union. The Center for European and Eurasian Studies facilitates teaching, research, and outreach activities relating to these areas. There are two undergraduate minors directly associated with the Center: the European Studies minor and the Russian and Eurasian Studies minor. MSU faculty direct study abroad programs in 25 countries in the region including Azerbaijan, Croatia, Czech Republic, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Norway, Poland, Spain, and the United Kingdom.

Laurie Medina, Director

The Center for Latin American and Caribbean Studies (CLACS) supports scholarship on Latin America and the Caribbean by catalyzing interdisciplinary collaborations on campus and forging partnerships with institutions in the region. The center identifies emerging opportunities for research, educational exchanges, and engagement in Latin America and the Caribbean and serves as an information hub for faculty and students with interests in the region. 

The CLACS Core Faculty consists of more than 150 tenure-stream and non-tenure-stream faculty and staff actively engaged in teaching, research, service, and librarianship on Latin America and the Caribbean. Representing 65 departments and programs across 16 MSU colleges, core faculty members offer a broad range of courses that focus on the region, covering languages and literatures, histories and politics, ecologies and economic development trajectories. CLACS collaborates with faculty to organize co-curricular events to support and enhance their Latin American and Caribbean content courses. To support faculty research, the center offers Strategic Partnership Funding for collaborations with international partners at institutions in Latin America and the Caribbean. 

MSU offers academic and extracurricular opportunities for students interested in Latin America and the Caribbean. For undergraduates, MSU offers an interdisciplinary major in Global and International Studies with a track in Latin America and the Caribbean as well as an interdisciplinary minor in Latin American and Caribbean Studies that can be combined with any major. The center provides scholarships for undergraduate students to pursue study abroad, internships, or research opportunities in Latin America and the Caribbean. At the graduate level, CLACS offers a certificate in Latin American and Caribbean Studies that can be combined with majors in any academic discipline. It also offers funding to support pre-dissertation research in the region for graduate students. In addition, CLACS collaborates with organizations that represent students from the region to create programs and events that address their priorities.

As part of the land grant tradition, CLACS also provides expertise and educational resources related to Latin America and the Caribbean to K-16 educators, the mid-Michigan community, businesses, and government.

For more information, email clacs@msu.edu, call 1-517-353-1690, or visit clacs.isp.msu.edu.

Krista McCallum Beatty, Director

The Office for International Students and Scholars, or OISS, provides services and support to Michigan State University’s international students, scholars, employees and families who study, conduct research, and teach at MSU. These services include advising on immigration regulations, health insurance and health care, student success and well-being, financial needs, and other programs to support successful experiences on campus and in the community. OISS creates engagement opportunities designed to help students and scholars build a sense of belonging in the U.S. and at MSU, and contribute to the internationalization of the campus and surrounding communities. Engagement opportunities include orientation, cultural events, workshops on intercultural communication, and ways for campus and community members to get involved in creating a welcoming community through volunteering. OISS is MSU’s primary information resource on issues related to international students and scholars, collaborating with administrative offices, academic colleges, departments, and schools, student affairs and the local community. The office also acts as a liaison with national and international organizations and agencies to best serve MSU international students and scholars.

For more information, call 1-517-353-1720, email oiss@msu.edu, or visit oiss.isp.msu.edu.

Opal Leeman Bartzis, Director

MSU is a top-ranked public university in the U.S. for study abroad, thanks to the efforts of the Office for Education Abroad, which is part of the Center for Global Learning and Innovation within International Studies and Programs. At MSU, one in four seniors have studied abroad by the time they graduate, gaining knowledge, skills and experience that will prepare them for living and working in a globalized world. MSU has more than 350 education abroad programs enabling students to study, intern and research in more than 65 countries and on every continent. A wide variety of courses abroad are available, including Integrative Studies, required electives, and major-specific courses. Programs take place during every semester, including winter and spring break, with diverse course selections and a variety of locations, making it possible for all majors to participate. Additionally, MSU offers freshman seminars abroad that provide recently-graduated first-year students the opportunity to explore learning outside of the U.S. before their first semester on campus. 
 
The Office for Education Abroad also administers the American Semester program, which allows students from MSU’s international partner universities to study at MSU for a semester or two and transfer credits to their home institution. 
 
Students are encouraged to explore study abroad opportunities as early as the summer before their freshman year. For additional information, see the Guest Status at Another Institution in the Undergraduate Education section of this catalog. 
 
For more information, visit the Education Abroad Advising Center in room 108 of the International Center, call 1-517-353-8920, email studyabroad@isp.msu.edu, or visit educationabroad.isp.msu.edu.


 

Aminda Smith and Soma Chaudhary, Co-Directors

The Center for Gender in Global Context (GenCen) draws together the strengths of the program in Women, Gender, and Social Justice in the College of Arts and Letters and the College of Social Science and the Gender, Development and Globalization Program in ISP. These programs have historically looked at gender in the U.S. and in international contexts. The center emphasizes women and gender in a global context, with distinctive new programs promoting teaching, research, and outreach relevant to 21st century concerns.

Working in conjunction with the academic colleges, the center promotes outstanding undergraduate and graduate education, facilitates research and scholarship of the highest caliber, and conducts innovative outreach and active learning. The center also works with colleges and departments to provide students with academic and active learning opportunities focused on gender and global change through gender-related degrees, specializations, and minors.

The center publishes Gendered Perspectives on International Development (GPID) Working Papers and Resource Bulletin, publications featuring scholarly work and the most recent set of resources in international gender and development studies and issues.

Through its grant-writing services, GenCen promotes interdisciplinary, gender-focused faculty research. The center also sponsors speakers’ series, colloquia and other events during the year.

For more information, call 1-517-353-5040, email gencen@msu.edu or visit gencen.isp.msu.edu.

MSU Information Technology (MSU IT) empowers Spartan success with technology. Our mission is to enable the University’s excellence in education, research, and outreach through the delivery of sustainable world-class IT solutions.   
 
MSU IT provides a wide range of technology services, help, and support for students.  

• Explore student-specific resources at tech.msu.edu/new-students
• General technology information is available at tech.msu.edu   

• Campus Wi-Fi and Internet Access - Reliable, high-speed wireless internet is available across campus to keep you connected in classrooms, residence halls, and common areas. 
• NetID and Spartan Card Support - Your MSU NetID gives you access to essential systems like email and campus Wi-Fi. MSU IT also supports Spartan Card services for identification and building access. 
• Email, Collaboration and AI Tools - Tools to help you connect and collaborate—like MSU email, Zoom, Spartan 365 Microsoft applications, and AI-powered productivity tools. 
• Cybersecurity - Protection for your data and accounts through multi-factor authentication, incident response, and cybersecurity training. Learn more at secureit.msu.edu.
• Learning and Instructional Technologies - Support for your academic success through platforms like D2L (MSU’s learning management system), classroom tech, computer labs, and printing services. 
• Applications - MSU IT supports various applications such the Student Information System (SIS) platform to manage your academic records and class registration, and Enterprise Business Systems (EBS) where student employees can access payroll and HR functions. 
• Research Computing and Data Storage - Scalable storage and high-performance computing resources to support your academic and research needs. 

• IT Service Desk - Live support for help with technology is available 7 a.m. to midnight, 7 days a week (except university holidays). For assistance, call 1-517-432-6200 or submit a request at ithelp.msu.edu. 
• MSU Tech Store - Located in the Computer Center, room 110. Offers educational discounts on computers, software, and accessories, along with in-person tech assistance. Open Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., or online at techstore.msu.edu. 
• Training - No-cost training is available on collaborative tools like Microsoft 365 and Zoom. Online courses, prerecorded trainings, and virtual office hours for personalized help can be found at spartanslearn.msu.edu. 
• MSU App - Stay connected with MSU news, campus maps, residence hall dining menus, events, and more, at mobile.msu.edu. 

Dr. Kwesi Brookins, Interim Director

The Julian Samora Research Institute (JSRI) generates, disseminates, and applies knowledge to serve the needs of Latino communities in the Midwest and the United States.  To achieve its mission, the JSRI:  1) serves as the hub of an interdisciplinary research program on social, cultural, health and economic issues confronting Latino populations and communities;  2) advances Latino scholarship by encouraging and supporting Latino-focused faculty and students to conduct research and engage in mentoring, research assistantships, fellowships, symposia and related activities; and 3) transmits and disseminates knowledge and research findings to various academic, government, community and private institutions and officials.

In addition, JSRI provides technical expertise to the broader community on policy development issues facing Latinos, and promotes the development of Latino cultural and human capital through leadership development, community empowerment, and education.  Through the generation, transmission and application of knowledge, JSRI is committed to transforming lives.  By engaging Latino-focused researchers, agencies, practitioners, policymakers and Latino communities in collaborative learning, community-based projects, and responsive engagement, JSRI joins University Outreach and Engagement and the larger university community in contributing to the advancement of the larger society – both locally and globally.

For more information, visit https://jsri.msu.edu, e-mail jsamorai@msu.edu, or call 1-517-432-1317. JSRI is housed on the Garden Level, Kellogg Center.

John Melcher, Interim Director

The Center for Community and Economic Development is committed to creating, applying, and disseminating valued knowledge through responsive engagement, strategic partnerships, and collaborative learning. We are dedicated to co-creating sustainable prosperity and equitable economies with communities.

Since its establishment in downtown Lansing, Michigan, in 1969, CCED, in partnership with public and private organizations, has developed and conducted numerous innovative programs that address local concerns while building the capacity of students, scholars and communities to address future challenges. This work includes the MSU EDA University Center for Regional and Economic Innovation (REI), funded by the U.S. Department of Commerce - Economic Development Administration (EDA). REI supports innovative MSU Student Led-Faculty guided partnership (credit and non-credit) in the community and economic development throughout the state of Michigan. CCED focuses its resources on the unique challenges of distressed communities throughout the state of Michigan.

In carrying out the mission of the CCED we:

• Create and support an innovative learning environment for collaborative learning in community and economic development
• Provide training and direct assistance designed to increase the capabilities of community-based organizations, private enterprises and public institutions
• Conduct research that assists in the development and implementation of effective problem-solving strategies
• Provide a multidisciplinary capacity to respond to the complex, interrelated issues of distressed communities
• Promote and expand MSU's capacity to provide needed training, direct assistance, and research to address the issues of communities

Kevin Leonard, Director

The Native American Institute (NAI) was founded in October 1981 with the mission to help Tribal Nations, Native communities, Indigenous organizations, businesses, and Native partners on and off campus plan and prepare to meet the current and future needs of their communities. Through this time period, Michigan tribes achieved significant advances in their community and economic development. The NAI has worked to provide assistance and add value to these community development efforts wherever and whenever possible.

NAI supports campus and community collaboration and provides opportunities for faculty, staff, students and the public to learn about issues facing American Indians and Indigenous peoples. Through these efforts, NAI promotes sovereignty, self-determination, preservation of Anishinaabeg culture and language, traditional knowledge, capacity building, leadership and well-being as defined by Tribal Nations and Indigenous partners across the state. In alignment with our mission and core values, the NAI supports collaborative scholarship and programming for Tribal Nations, Native communities, Indigenous organizations, businesses, and Native partners on and off campus.

For more information, visit https://nai.msu.edu, email nai@msu.edu, or call 1-517-353-6632. NAI is housed on the Garden Level, Kellogg Center.
 

Jabbar R. Bennett, Vice President and Chief Inclusion Officer

The Office for Inclusive Excellence and Impact works to advance Michigan State University’s public land-grant mission and supports equal opportunity in admissions, recruitment, retention, advancement and organizational operations. In addition, the unit helps lead and coordinate a range of initiatives and programs that aim to build community across the institution through partnerships with senior executives, faculty, staff, students and alums, while promoting a culture of dignity, respect, empathy and accountability.  

For more information, visit inclusion.msu.edu; email inclusion@msu.edu; or call 1-517-353-4563.

Charles Cox, Research Integrity Officer

The Research Integrity Officer (RIO) is responsible for ensuring the MSU Procedures concerning Allegations of Misconduct in Research and Creative Activities are carried out in an unbiased, confidential, and professional manner. Research Misconduct includes fabrication, falsification, plagiarism, or any other practice, that seriously deviates from practices commonly accepted in the discipline or in the academic and research communities generally in proposing, performing, reviewing, or reporting research and creative activities. Misconduct does not include honest error or honest differences in the interpretation or judgment of data. Initial inquiries regarding potential research misconduct cases are held in strict confidence. The RIO is located at Wills House, 287 Delta Court, Room 106 and can be reached at 1-517-432-6698 or by e-mail at rio@msu.edu.  Visit rio.msu.edu for more information.

The MSU Alumni Office exists to foster a lifelong Spartan experience — starting the moment you become a student. We help Spartans stay connected, give back, and make a difference in their communities and around the world.

As a student, you have access to a range of programs and resources designed to build meaningful connections and prepare you for life after graduation. Through events, employment opportunities, and leadership development programs like the Homecoming Court and Sparty Mascot Program, we empower you to grow personally and professionally. You can give back through Spartan Days of Service, get involved with alumni clubs and affinity networks and take part in traditions that celebrate what it means to be a Spartan.

We’re here to help you build your Spartan story — on campus, in your community and wherever your journey takes you.

Learn more about how to get involved: alumni.msu.edu.

Laura Rugless, Vice President and Title IX and Title VI Coordinator 

The Office for Civil Rights and Title IX Education and Compliance, or OCR, serves as Michigan State University’s central civil rights compliance office. In this role, OCR is responsible for leading efforts to uphold a broad range of civil rights protections related to discrimination, harassment based on protected identity, relationship violence, sexual misconduct, civil rights-related retaliation, and accessibility. 

Through its four branches— ADA and Digital Accessibility; Investigation, Support, and Resolution, or ISR; Office of the Vice President (OVP)/Business and Compliance Services; and Prevention, Outreach, and Education, or POE—OCR plays a vital role in protecting individual rights and fostering an inclusive and respectful university culture through the implementation of MSU’s civil rights policies:  

• Anti-Discrimination Policy  
• Digital Accessibility Policy  
• Disability and Reasonable Accommodation Policy 
• Mandatory Reporting for Relationship Violence, Sexual Misconduct and Stalking Policy
• Pregnancy, Childbirth and Pregnancy-Related Conditions for Students and Employees Policy
• Relationship Violence and Sexual Misconduct and Title IX Policy  

• Educating and supporting all university community groups regarding how to prevent, identify, appropriately respond to, and report discrimination, harassment, relationship violence, sexual misconduct, stalking, and retaliation;   
• Conducting impartial, fair, and equitable investigations to ensure compliance with MSU’s Anti-Discrimination, Mandatory Reporting, and Relationship Violence and Sexual Misconduct and Title IX policies and provides support to parties, regardless of whether they elect to participate in the resolution process; and  
• Leading the university’s efforts to maintain accessible programs, services and activities, and to remove barriers to access as set forth in the Disability.

Shannon Lynn Burton, University Ombudsperson

The University Ombudsperson is appointed by the President to provide an independent, neutral, informal, and confidential resource for all members of the MSU community. The Ombudsperson assists individuals in navigating concerns and resolving issues by listening, providing information, clarifying policies, identifying options, and facilitating informal resolutions when appropriate.

The Ombudsperson does not advocate for any individual or for the university but promotes fair treatment, process and outcomes. The Office of the University Ombudsperson is not a formal office of notice and does not conduct investigations or participate in formal grievance or disciplinary procedures. Communications with the Ombudsperson are off the record and are held in strict confidence to the extent permitted by law and university policy.

To carry out this role effectively, the Ombudsperson has broad access to university personnel, policies, and data necessary to understand patterns of concern and provide feedback to support systemic improvement. The Office also serves as a resource to students, faculty, administrators, and staff by clarifying university policies and offering guidance on effective conflict management.

Established in 1967 with the adoption of the Student Rights and Responsibilities at Michigan State University, the Office of the University Ombudsperson is one of the longest continuously operating university ombuds offices in the United States. For more information, visit http://ombud.msu.edu/, email ombud@msu.edu, or call 1-517-353-8830.
 

The United States Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps (AFROTC) is a nationwide program that allows students to pursue commissions (become officers) in the United States Air Force (USAF) or United States Space Force (USSF) while simultaneously attending college. The program consists of three-year, four-year, or five-year academic programs depending on the student's major. The program is broken into two distinct segments; the General Military Corps (GMC) and the Professional Officer Corps (POC), both of which are taken on-campus. In addition, prior to admission into the POC, AFROTC cadets must complete a two--week field training encampment off-campus.

AFROTC classes are held on college campuses in the United States and Puerto Rico, and students register through normal course registration processes.  AFROTC consists of Aerospace Studies classes (Heritage and Values of the United States Air Force, Team and Leadership Fundamentals, Leading People and Effective Communication, and National Security Affairs/Preparation for Active Duty), and a corresponding Leadership Laboratory for each year whereby students apply leadership skills, demonstrate command and effective communication, develop physical fitness, and practice military customs and courtesies.  College students enrolled in the AFROTC program are known as “cadets.”  Cadets who successfully complete both AFROTC training and college requirements will graduate and simultaneously commission as Second Lieutenants in the active duty Air Force.


 

The U.S. Army Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) Program offers undergraduate and graduate students an opportunity to qualify as commissioned officers in the United States Army. The ROTC program provides preparation for leadership in any profession, military or civilian.

Charles A. Hasemann, Associate Vice President for Innovation and Economic Development

The MSU Bioeconomy Institute (MSU-BI) complements and extends MSU campus research by enabling the production at scale of both biological and chemical products.  MSU-BI supports faculty, not-for-profit, and for-profit companies of all sizes by providing microbial fermentation and specialty chemical process development, scale-up,  and manufacturing. Our fermentation facility is located in Lansing, MI, while the specialty chemistry facility is in Holland, MI. The Holland facility also has extensive laboratory space available for lease to small technology-based companies, in partnership with the regional business incubation services provided by Lakeshore Advantage.

For more information, call 1-616-395-8958 or visit www.bioeconomy.msu.edu.

Laura McCabe, Associate Vice President for Research Regulatory Support

Michigan State University researchers seek to conduct their research in ways that protect the health and safety of research subjects and investigators, as well as the environment. The Office of Research Regulatory Support (ORRS) offers online and in-person training and other resources to help researchers assure safety in their labs, conduct research responsibly, and comply with relevant regulations. ORRS also pursues accreditation and certifications to ensure that programs relating to human and animal subjects as well as environmental health and safety meet federal regulations. These efforts aim to maintain Michigan State University‘s respected compliance record. For more information, visit orrs.msu.edu. The major units within the office include:

Human Research Protection Program (HRRP) - protects individuals who are subjects of research and/or clinical investigations through MSU's commitment to follow ethical standards described in the Belmont Report and applicable federal, state, local, and university requirements. The program is fully accredited by the Association for the Accreditation of Human Research  Protection Programs, Inc. The HRPP includes the offices of the Institutional Review Board (IRB) and Compliance, and provides support to the MSU IRB committees. For more information, call 1-517-355-2180, email irb@msu.edu or visit hrpp.msu.edu.

Animal Care Program - supports and oversees all animal-related research, teaching, and outreach activities. The program provides ethical review and regulatory oversight of animal use, veterinary care, animal procurement and husbandry, technical and administrative support, training and educational opportunities, and public outreach. The Animal Care Program consists of the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC), which oversees the ethical and regulatory review of animal activities, and Campus Animal Resources (CAR) (comprising locations in Grand Rapids, East Lansing and Detroit), which provides veterinary care, daily husbandry, technical support, procurement services, and animal health oversight for biomedical and agricultural animal programs. The MSU Animal Care Program is fully accredited by AAALAC International. For more information, visit animalcare.msu.edu, contact the IACUC at 517-432-8103 or iacuc@msu.edu, or contact Campus Animal Resources at 517-353-5064 or carinfo@msu.edu.

Office of Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) - serves as a proactive provider of regulatory and safety guidance, education, training, and compliance assistance to the university community to ensure that all faculty, students, and staff work in a safe and productive environment. The office acts as the primary liaison between the university and federal, state, and local environmental health agencies, including Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and Michigan Department of Energy, Great Lakes and Environment, U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, National Institutes for Health Office of Science Policy, The Centers for Disease Control, United States Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, United States Customs and Border Protection, and Federal Aviation Administration. For more information, call 1-517-355-0153 or visit www.ehs.msu.edu.  For use of respiratory protection, visit ehs.msu.edu/occ/respirator/steps-obtain-respirator.html

Office of Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) - serves as a proactive provider of regulatory guidance, education, training, and compliance assistance to the university community to ensure that all faculty, students, and staff work in a safe and productive environment. The office acts as the primary liaison between the university and federal, state, and local
environmental health agencies, including Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and Michigan Department of Energy, Great Lakes and Environment and U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission. For more information, call 1-517-355-0153 or visit ehs.msu.edu.

Conflict Disclosures and Management (CDM) - provides guidance and assists MSU faculty, staff, and researchers with identifying, disclosing, and managing their outside activities and potential conflicts of interest. Related to the management of conflicts of interest, CDM supports MSU’s faculty Conflict Review Committee. The office also provides training and education related to conflict of interest disclosure requirements that is consistent with local, state, and federal regulations. For more information, email cdm@msu.edu or visit coi.msu.edu.
 
Export Control and Trade Sanctions (ECTS) - oversees the university's compliance with federal export control regulations, which impose controls on export-controlled technologies including materials, equipment, data and software, and trade sanction regulations, which apply to certain individuals, entities and governments around the world, based on U.S. policy and national security goals. The unit maintains a university wide software license for restricted party screening and identifying lists of debarred parties and entities and provides ongoing training programs for MSU personnel. For more information about ECTS, call 517-432-4499, email export@msu.edu, or visit exportcontrols.msu.edu.
 

Charles Hasemann, Associate Vice President for Innovation and Economic Development

The MSU Innovation Center provides resources to MSU faculty and staff to develop and support corporate research relationships, protection and commercialization of novel innovations, new company startups, and a growing portfolio of business and community partnerships.

MSU researchers turn to the MSU Innovation Center for help translating their scientific discoveries into products and new businesses that benefit society and spur economic growth. We work directly with faculty, students and commercial partners, bringing hundreds of discoveries annually into a pipeline of patents, products and startup businesses.

The MSU Innovation Center operates just off campus in the City Center Building at 325 E. Grand River Ave. At that address, several MSU and MSU Research Foundation Groups are co-located, meeting the needs of MSU’s innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem.

MSU Business-CONNECT - serves as the front door for businesses to connect with MSU  researchers, and facilities to advance technologies and research. These project partnerships can be with large multinational organizations or small business enterprises alike. The unit negotiates all of MSU's corporate sponsored projects, which total more than $25 million annually.

MSU Technologies - facilitates MSU's technology transfer and commercialization, supporting commercial development and public use of technologies and licensable copyrighted materials developed by MSU faculty and staff. Whether it's guidance on the patent process, identifying funding opportunities for technology development, or securing a license, MSU Technologies can assist. Over the past several years, $4 million in royalties have been annually distributed to MSU faculty members and  their departments to be reinvested in research.  MSUT also supports MSU’s research enterprise by finalizing confidentiality agreements, material transfer agreements and data use agreements.

Spartan Innovations - helps MSU's students and faculty launch sustainable startups. This subsidiary of the MSU Research Foundation supports their efforts by connecting them to experienced business leaders, investors, and cultivating community collaborations.

Learn more at innovationcenter.msu.edu or visit us on social: @msuinnovation.

 

Charles Hasemann, Associate Vice President for Innovation and Economic Development
Tim Schuster, Site Manager

Michigan State University engages in exploratory and development chemistry in the historic St. Andrews Laboratory in Midland, Michigan. From this base, and in partnership with MSU Extension, we also operate a STEAM education center, providing valuable learning opportunities in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics to students of all ages K-12, their families, and teachers from throughout the Great Lakes Bay area. Support for both the facility and educational programming is provided by a number of  Midland area family foundations. Visit standrews.msu.edu or call 1-989-374-9904 for more information.

 

Katherine Cook, Executive Director for the Office of Sponsored Programs
Evonne Pedawi, Executive Director for Contract and Grant Administration

The Office of Sponsored Programs (OSP) and Contract and Grant Administration (CGA), collaborate with MSU's researchers and administrators to provide effective and efficient administration throughout the proposal and award cycle. The MSU research award life cycle includes proposal development and submission, award negotiation and acceptance, account setup and modifications, award management, and lastly, award closeout. Learn more by visiting osp.msu.edu. Please email help@osp.msu.edu or help@cga.msu.edu with questions, or call 1-517-355-5040.
 

The Gender and Sexuality Campus Center (GSCC), leads and collaborates on university initiatives to prepare students to thrive in a diverse world. We enhance the campus climate, as well as academic and support services for students marginalized by their sexuality or gender identity. We serve as a hub for information, resources and opportunities for LGBTQIA2S+ students, such as social, academic and community organizations, counseling and other advocacy. We provide consultation to faculty, staff and student leaders regarding individual student issues; creating inclusive and affirming practices; and curricular and cocurricular learning around sexuality and gender.

For more information, contact the GSCC at 1-517-353-9520; email gscc@msu.edu; or visit www.gscc.msu.edu.

The Office of Cultural and Academic Transitions (OCAT) supports students as they navigate cross-cultural encounters and develop a cultural identity. OCAT engages students on issues related to academic transitions, culture, race and ethnicity. Specifically, OCAT prompts students’ involvement in broad-based university learning experiences (e.g., education abroad, alternative spartan breaks, internships, etc.), while also connecting them to campus resources, people and programs that lead to deeper student learning and personal success. In part, the office accomplishes this by building critical alliances and connections with academic units. OCAT strives to bring together individuals and groups of students from diverse racial, ethnic, international and domestic backgrounds for meaningful interactions.  CAT employs multiple strategies to accomplish these goals, including signature programs, such as Maximizing academic Growth in College (MAGIC), Council on Racial Ethnic Students (CORES), Spartan Remix, and more. Visit www.ocat.msu.edu.
 

The Career Services Network (CSN) helps students in all stages of their professional development – from the early stages of exploring career options and choosing a major, to internships and job searches. CSN support includes

1. One-on-one advising appointments with career advisors to assist students in self-assessment, career exploration, decision-making, resumes and cover letters, job search strategies, interview preparation and negotiating offers.
2. Career assessment tools to help students align interests and preferences to job type, majors and work environments: Strong Interest Inventory and Myers-Briggs Type Indicator can be interpreted with a career advisor, while Focus 2 allows for a self-guided experience.
3. Career exploration events, such as guest speakers, alumni panels, networking sessions and industry trips (e.g., Spartan Start-Up entrepreneurship; sports careers; entertainment journalism; careers within government; careers in non-profits).
4. Workshops ranging from resume writing and career exploration to networking and interviewing skills.
5. Career Fairs, bring employers to campus for over 50 events annually including MSU On Campus and Local Job Fair, Graduate and Law School Fair, Student Success  Career Fair, Summer Job and Internship Fair, Teacher and Administration Career Fair and more.
6. On campus interviews with employers for entry-level and internship positions with over 10,000 interviews conducted annually.
7. Career resources:  including Handshake, an interactive system that manages job, internship, part-time campus employment listings, on-campus interviews, as well as a comprehensive calendar of career events and workshops, practice interviewing, a professional photo booth and even a Career Clothing Closet. 

The Director of Community and Student Relations serves Michigan State University students and the community with respect to MSU student-related topics, by fostering effective interactions and increasing open communication with the Mid-Michigan community. For more information, call 1-517-432-7527 (TTY 353-6651); visit 556 E. Circle Drive, Student Services Building, Room 113; or visit www.collegelifeel.msu.edu.

OFF-CAMPUS listing service. An off-campus housing listing Service, endorsed by MSU, is available to assist students with locating apartments, houses and roommates based on personal preference and budget. The search begins at offcampushousing.msu.edu.


 

The Center for Community Engaged Learning (CCEL) prepares students for lifelong civic and social responsibility by advancing Community Engaged Learning across campus. CCEL-hosted programs throughout the year include, Days of Service and student philanthropy events, pre-professional volunteering with local hospitals, the Spartan Volunteer Corps, community work-study positions tutoring in local schools, student scholar opportunities, the Spartan Volunteer Service Award Program, and more. CCEL also supports student seeking to volunteer outside of courses and programs through our SpartansVolunteer Platform.  Students interested in finding volunteer placements posted by our community partners can start at communityengagedlearning.msu.edu/students/looking-to-volunteer.
 
A Community Engaged Learning orientation is available online in D2L throughout the year to prepare students for their placement and partnership. Students can find this orientation and other resources at https://communityengagedlearning.msu.edu/students/student-support-and-resources.
 
CCEL staff advise three community-engaged registered student organizations - Alternative Spartan Breaks, Volunteer Income Tax Assistance, and Spartans Rebuilding Michigan. Our office also manages the Community Engagement Scholars Program and Spartan Volunteer Corps as opportunities for student leadership in community engagement.
 
Our Academic Programs Team offers their educational expertise to help faculty and students identify and utilize high-impact teaching strategies to maximize community-engaged learning outcomes. CCEL works to facilitate campus and community networking to help faculty, staff, students, and community organizations identify potential partnerships and connect with other like-minded campus/community members.

Transportation assistance is offered to students, including free CATA bus cards available for pickup at our office in the Student Services Building, Room 101. Community-engaged RSOs and professors can also apply for a Transportation Support Award for travel to student volunteer placements. Learn more at https://communityengagedlearning.msu.edu/faculty/transportation-support-award. 
 
Learn more about CCEL at communityengagedlearning.msu.edu.
 

Through collaboration with students, international organizations, alumni, and the Division of Student Affairs, Fraternity and Sorority Life at Michigan State University fosters a holistic college experience by providing opportunities for student success through scholarship, leadership, and community service. These three opportunities have been outlined by our unit as the foundation of healthy and successful fraternity and sorority chapters and advance the missions of each of our chapters. The defining opportunities are in line with the Division of Student Affairs and further the values and goals of Michigan State University.

Since 1872, Fraternity and Sorority Life has been a vibrant part of the Spartan experience. With a rich history rooted in tradition and a future focused on connection, Michigan State’s fraternity and sorority community helps students build lifelong friendships, grow as leaders, and thrive in and out of the classroom. When you join a fraternity or sorority, you gain more than a chapter—you gain a community, a network, and a place to call home. All programs and activities are open to all without restriction or preference based on race, sex, color, ethnicity, national origin or other protected personal identity.

For more information, email fsl@sle.msu.edu or visit fsl.msu.edu.
 

MOSAIC Center for Education and Outreach is dedicated to fostering shared responsibility and integrity across intersectional identities by engaging in courageous storytelling and compassionate dialogue to create meaningful connections at MSU and beyond. The MOSAIC Center integrates four initiatives to build a foundation for transformational relationships to enhance student success through: (a) Women and Gender Equity, (b) Global Education and Outreach, (c) Religious, Spiritual, and Secular Identities, and (d) unity coalition efforts.
 
Women and Gender Equity (WAGE): Focused on education and community building initiatives that advance women and gender equity, inclusivity, and leadership for social change and connection through an intersectional lens. Programs included, but not limited to men and masculinities, capacity building, and leadership development.
 
Global Education and Outreach (GEO): Facilitates collaboration, leadership development, and coalition-building among diverse student groups advocating for social and global learning (nationally and internationally) and cultural and intersectional understanding. 
 
Religious, Spiritual, and Secular Identities (RSSI): Connects the members of MSU to worldview communities. Reciprocity between individuals and organizations seek to achieve pluralism by building respecting for individual identities, relationships between individual and communities across worldview difference, and create the capacity for opportunities to work for common good.
 
Unity Coalition: Provide a collaborative space for promoting conversation and action, as well as allyship and advocacy on intersectional topics relevant to MSU members and the broader community.
 
For more information, please email mosaic@msu.edu or find us at https://mosaic.msu.edu.
 

MSUvote is a non-partisan campus committee focused on increasing registered student voters and informing and educating students on candidates and issues to bolster student participation in elections. MSUvote provides resources on registering to vote and voter guides for each state and Washington D.C. For questions or information about MSUvote resources and services, visit the Student Services Building, or visit msuvote.msu.edu.


 

Recreational Sports and Fitness Services (RSFS) provides safe, supportive and active environments for the diverse fitness needs of the MSU community. RSFS engages the community through sports, fitness and recreation opportunities through a variety of ways, including club and intramural sports, fitness programs and numerous other opportunities. Three intramural buildings provide space for more than 25 organized intramural sports and over 28 student sports clubs. MSU students, faculty, staff, retirees and alumni may choose from a diverse array of activities, including formal league and tournament play to less competitive and informal recreational activities, exercise and fitness programs. RSFS’ Adaptive Recreation provides spaces and opportunities for persons with disabilities to take join in the activities, from hand cycles that can be checked out, to drop-in adaptive recreation, such as Boccia Ball, Pickleball and Badminton, as well as blind soccer and adaptive shooting.

For information, refer to Recreational Sports and Fitness Services in the General Information, Policies, Procedures and Regulations section of this catalog, call the Recreational Sports office at 1-517-355-5257,  or visit www.recsports.msu.edu.

Refer to the statement on Resource Center for Persons with Disabilities in the General Information section of this catalog for additional information.

The Office of Spartan Experiences engages MSU students in active learning, leadership development and enhancing their education for their success. Fall Welcome and Spring Welcome events are organized by Spartan Experiences to promote academic, cultural, recreational, and personal programs that help ease students’ transition to the university.

Spartan Experiences also offers programs throughout the year to help students find opportunities to be engaged and grow while at MSU. For more information, call 1-517-355-8286 (TTY 355-2217) or visit studentlife.msu.edu.

STUDENT GOVERNMENT and STUDENT ORGANIZATION ADVISING. Staff members assist student government leaders by advising, consulting, and serving as a resource on university policies and procedures.  Staff also register over 1000 student organizations, as well as the programs and events sponsored by these groups, and provide consultation to enhance student group development.  Leadership training and development programs help those in student government and other organizations increase their effectiveness as leaders.


 

The Student Parent Resource Center (SPRC) provides support, resources and campus and community connections for MSU student parents. While that looks different for each family, SPRC, located in the University Village Community Center, this team of three works supports MSU student parents, so they can focus on academics, their experience and development, successfully reaching graduation and their families.

SPRC helps student parents meet and build their community with other student parent peers, integrate with the rest of MSU and fulfill needs that are outside of the classroom and college experience, such as food, diapers and childcare.

Learn more at studentparents.msu.edu. Contact the office at 517-432-3745 or sprc@msu.edu.


 

The Center for Veterans and Military-Affiliated Students (CVMAS) supports and helps military personnel and their families find and navigate information, resources and others who will support their success at Michigan State University. The center provides numerous services and support, including space for meetings, studying and socializing; VA benefits and health information; financial aid application support; transition services; career development and employment/internship opportunities; and referrals to programs and services, both on and off the MSU campus. Find more information at veterans.msu.edu or call us at 1-517-884-5973.

Upward Bound of Michigan State University is a federally funded program designed to help underserved youth with academic potential to develop and refine skills for post-secondary education.

As part of the Trio Programs established by the U.S. Congress in accordance with the Higher Education Act of 1965, the program is now fully funded by Michigan State University. For more than fifty years, this federally funded program has provided academic enrichment to hundreds of high school youth in the Lansing area. These students traditionally have come from low-income families and/or families in which neither parent has obtained a bachelor’s degree.

The program partners with Lansing School District’s Everett, Sexton, and Eastern High Schools to help Lansing-area high school first-years, sophomores, juniors, and seniors develop the academic and social skills necessary for matriculation in post-secondary education. Upward Bound provides admissions, financial aid counseling, and academic assistance to participants to expedite their admission to college. It also serves as a forum for university units to examine concepts and methods related to the recruitment, instruction, and motivation of students from less advantaged backgrounds.

The Upward Bound program continues to expand opportunities for its students by offering experiences through a variety of programs focusing on cultural enrichment and personal growth. This includes study skills, workshops, cultural field trips, study abroad opportunities, college visits, career exploration, and job shadowing experiences. In addition, it provides programs to help parents and students navigate the financial aid process.

MSU’s Upward Bound Program is a division of University Outreach and Engagement. For further information visit ocai.engage.msu.edu or email ocai@msu.edu.
 

Serving as a major resource for the state of Michigan, Gifted and Talented Education (GATE) programs provide curricula designed for academically gifted pre-college students. Accelerated Common Core compliant academic year programming is available for high achieving students in grades 6-10 to earn high school credit. Programs offered include: Cooperative Highly Accelerated Mathematics Program (CHAMP), Accelerated Study in Composition, English, and Narrative Discourse (ASCEND), and Michigan’s Accelerated NihonGo for Americans (M.A.N.G.A. – Japanese Language and Culture).

Summer programs for grades 4-11 offer both commuter and residential options. The Mathematics, Science, and Technology (MST) summer program provides curriculum for students who excel in STEAM fields. The Intensive Studies for Gifted and Talented (IS4GT) is a one-week advanced program in a specific concentrated curriculum for gifted students grades 6-11. Gifted University for Parents and Precocious Youth (GUPPY) is designed for young gifted and talented students (4-6 grades) to attend classes taught by MSU faculty and staff at Michigan State University for one week. This GATE program will offer young, gifted students a variety of accelerated exploratory educational presentations and hands-on experiences. For additional curriculum and application information visit www.gifted.msu.edu or email gifted@msu.edu.