Michigan State University Overview

Michigan State University is a four-year, full-time, selective, lower transfer-in, higher education institution located in East Lansing, MI. It has an enrollment of 38,424 undergraduate students. The admissions acceptance rate is 83.25%.

The average annual cost of attendance after financial aid is $10,925. Tuition is $14,750.00 without financial aid.

Michigan State University is a predominantly bachelor’s-degree granting school.

At Michigan State University, 92.11% of students return after freshman year (national average: 68%).

Michigan State University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 16 to 1.

Michigan State University Website

Michigan State University Admissions

For the incoming class in 2023, the acceptance rate was 83.25%.

SAT or ACT scores are considered but not required

• The average SAT score was 1220.0 for the incoming class of 2023.
• The median ACT score was 26.0 for the incoming class to 2023.

Michigan State University Cost

The average annual cost of attendance after financial aid is $10,925. The in-state tuition is $14,750.00. Out-of-state tuition is $40,562.00

The average tuition is:

• $129, when family income is less than $30,000

• $6,117, when family income is between $30,001 and $48,000 

• $12,578, when family income is between $48,001 and $75,000

• $17,089, when family income is between $75,001 and $110,000

• $19,612, when family income is more than $110,000 

The average tuition shown here is based on the NET costs to students who receive financial aid. For the incoming class of 2023, 36.84% of students received a federal student loan and 21.54% of students received a Pell Grant.

Tuition is $40,562.00 without financial aid, or the in-state tuition discount.

Michigan State University Net Price Calculator

Michigan State University Majors/Salaries

Michigan State University has academic offerings within the core majors listed below.  

Please note that different schools classify majors differently, so it is best to view the school’s website to see the various programs it offers. See detailed information about the individual majors at Michigan State University here.

Recent Graduate Salaries

(Average salaries of students from select majors two years after graduation)

• Agricultural Business and Management. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $50,356
• Applied Horticulture and Horticultural Business Services. (Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma) – $27,862
• Animal Sciences. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $35,546
• Food Science and Technology. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $45,221
• Food Science and Technology. (Master’s Degree) – $83,915
• Plant Sciences. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $35,060
• Soil Sciences. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $41,193
• Veterinary Medicine. (First Professional Degree) – $78,217
• Veterinary/Animal Health Technologies/Technicians. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $33,993
• Natural Resources Conservation and Research. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $33,993
• Wildlife and Wildlands Science and Management. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $25,194
• City/Urban, Community and Regional Planning. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $25,194
• Communication and Media Studies. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $38,992
• Journalism. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $37,624
• Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $41,833
• Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication. (Master’s Degree) – $47,118
• Computer and Information Sciences, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $75,291
• Education, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $40,089
• Education, General. (Master’s Degree) – $44,305
• Curriculum and Instruction. (Master’s Degree) – $46,771
• Educational Administration and Supervision. (Master’s Degree) – $57,995
• Educational Administration and Supervision. (Doctoral Degree) – $86,129
• Educational Administration and Supervision. (First Professional Degree) – $101,072
• Educational Administration and Supervision. (Graduate/Professional Certificate) – $48,600
• Educational/Instructional Media Design. (Master’s Degree) – $50,231
• Special Education and Teaching. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $39,729
• Special Education and Teaching. (Master’s Degree) – $46,999
• Student Counseling and Personnel Services. (Master’s Degree) – $45,383
• Engineering, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $63,997
• Agricultural Engineering. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $56,415
• Chemical Engineering. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $71,351
• Civil Engineering. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $63,788
• Computer Engineering. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $80,133
• Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $77,115
• Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering. (Master’s Degree) – $90,412
• Materials Engineering (Bachelor’s Degree) – $69,338
• Mechanical Engineering. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $75,936
• Engineering, Other. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $57,318
• Construction Engineering Technologies. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $68,422
• Engineering-Related Fields. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $67,429
• Linguistic, Comparative, and Related Language Studies and Services. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $18,771
• East Asian Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $32,925
• Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $26,850
• Human Development, Family Studies, and Related Services. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $30,520
• Human Development, Family Studies, and Related Services. (Master’s Degree) – $43,426
• Non-Professional General Legal Studies (Undergraduate). (Bachelor’s Degree) – $31,314
• English Language and Literature, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $32,391
• Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $40,945
• Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $32,391
• Biology, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $26,048
• Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $38,018
• Microbiological Sciences and Immunology. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $34,420
• Zoology/Animal Biology. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $25,194
• Genetics. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $31,127
• Physiology, Pathology and Related Sciences. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $21,508
• Pharmacology and Toxicology. (Master’s Degree) – $68,499
• Ecology, Evolution, Systematics, and Population Biology. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $22,192
• Ecology, Evolution, Systematics, and Population Biology. (Doctoral Degree) – $58,181
• Neurobiology and Neurosciences. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $25,194
• Mathematics. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $39,153
• Nutrition Sciences. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $32,284
• International/Global Studies. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $30,988
• Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $27,295
• Parks, Recreation and Leisure Facilities Management. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $23,113
• Health and Physical Education/Fitness. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $28,312
• Health and Physical Education/Fitness. (Master’s Degree) – $39,585
• Chemistry. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $41,565
• Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $40,647
• Physics. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $52,107
• Psychology, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $30,535
• Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology. (Doctoral Degree) – $49,840
• Criminal Justice and Corrections. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $37,478
• Criminal Justice and Corrections. (Master’s Degree) – $61,020
• Homeland Security, Law Enforcement, Firefighting and Related Protective Services, Other. (Master’s Degree) – $64,990
• Public Policy Analysis. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $39,009
• Social Work. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $32,213
• Social Work. (Master’s Degree) – $46,478
• Social Sciences, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $38,289
• Anthropology. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $20,687
• Anthropology. (Doctoral Degree) – $52,107
• Economics. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $48,823
• Geography and Cartography. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $41,937
• International Relations and National Security Studies. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $44,170
• Political Science and Government. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $38,018
• Sociology. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $35,594
• Design and Applied Arts. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $38,721
• Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $24,035
• Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft. (Master’s Degree) – $36,183
• Fine and Studio Arts. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $25,967
• Fine and Studio Arts. (Master’s Degree) – $32,569
• Music. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $36,992
• Music. (Master’s Degree) – $29,685
• Music. (Doctoral Degree) – $41,565
• Communication Disorders Sciences and Services. (Master’s Degree) – $55,286
• Clinical/Medical Laboratory Science/Research and Allied Professions. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $50,856
• Medicine. (First Professional Degree) – $55,678
• Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions. (Master’s Degree) – $43,502
• Public Health. (Master’s Degree) – $50,856
• Public Health. (Graduate/Professional Certificate) – $52,941
• Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions. (Master’s Degree) – $43,798
• Dietetics and Clinical Nutrition Services. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $40,728
• Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $61,634
• Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. (Master’s Degree) – $96,183
• Business/Commerce, General. (Master’s Degree) – $123,886
• Business Administration, Management and Operations. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $62,654
• Business Administration, Management and Operations. (Master’s Degree) – $98,481
• Accounting and Related Services. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $59,982
• Accounting and Related Services. (Master’s Degree) – $63,355
• Finance and Financial Management Services. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $60,219
• Hospitality Administration/Management. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $43,269
• Human Resources Management and Services. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $63,005
• Human Resources Management and Services. (Master’s Degree) – $89,435
• Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $58,673
• Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods. (Master’s Degree) – $83,915
• Marketing. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $54,996
• Marketing. (Master’s Degree) – $65,894
• History. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $28,598

Michigan State University Diversity

The racial diversity of students who received financial aid at Michigan State University

• American Indian/Alaska Native: 0.17%
• Asian: 7.29%
• Black: 7.29%
• Hispanic: 6.10%
• Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander: 0.06%
• Non-resident alien: 5.57%
• Two or more races: 3.69%
• Unknown: 2.05%
• White: 67.78%

At Michigan State University, 2.19% of undergraduate students are 25 years old, or older.

Michigan State University Frequently Asked Questions

How is school spirit at Michigan State University?

School spirit is a huge part of campus life at Michigan State University. It is popularly known as “Sparty Nation.” Students, faculty, and alumni all support and show pride in their school with their enthusiastic participation in various academic, sports and cultural activities. Some of the highlights of school spirit include the famous Spartan Marching Band, the MSU Fight song, wearing green and white on game days, attending games and events, and supporting different student organizations and clubs on campus. The university also has a long-standing rivalry with the University of Michigan, leading to passionate and spirited competitions between the two schools. Overall, MSU boasts an active and passionate fan base that creates a lively and energetic campus atmosphere.

What are some popular extracurriculars at Michigan State University?

Michigan State University offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, clubs, and organizations that cater to student interests and passions. Some of the most popular extracurriculars at MSU include: 1. Student government and leadership organizations 2. Community service and volunteering clubs 3. Professional and academic organizations related to majors or future career paths 4. Cultural clubs and organizations that celebrate diversity and promote inclusion 5. Sports clubs and intramural teams for various sports and levels of competitiveness 6. Creative and performing arts clubs, such as music ensembles, theater groups, and dance teams. There are many more extracurricular opportunities available at MSU, and students are encouraged to explore and participate in activities that align with their interests and goals.

How are the food choices at Michigan State University?

Michigan State University offers a wide range of dining options to cater the diverse tastes of its student population. The campus has more than 20 dining halls, cafes, restaurants, and markets that provide a variety of food choices, including kosher, halal, vegetarian, and vegan options. The dining halls serve freshly prepared meals featuring locally sourced seasonal ingredients. There are also fast food chains like Subway, Qdoba, Starbucks, and Panda Express on campus. The university’s dining program has won numerous awards for sustainable practices and culinary excellence.

Is there Greek life at Michigan State University?

Yes, Michigan State University (MSU) has a large Greek life community. It is home to over 60 fraternities and sororities, many of which are members of national Greek organizations. These groups provide opportunities for leadership, community service, social events, and networking with alumni. MSU’s Greek life community is regulated by the university’s Office for Fraternity and Sorority Life, which oversees the membership intake process, conducts risk management training, and assists with the coordination of events.

What is Michigan State University known for?

Michigan State University (MSU) is known for various things, including its well-regarded agriculture, business, and engineering programs. The university is also known for its top-ranked graduate programs in education, nuclear physics, and veterinary medicine. MSU is recognized as a leading research university in the United States and has made notable contributions in several areas, including food safety and security, environmental research, and international development. Additionally, Michigan State University has a successful athletics program, especially in men’s and women’s basketball and football.

What are the most popular school clubs at Michigan State University?

Michigan State University has a wide range of student clubs available, but some of the most popular clubs include: 1. Outdoor Club: This club allows students to explore Michigan’s natural surroundings, from hiking and camping to kayaking and rock climbing. 2. MSU Dance Marathon: The MSU Dance Marathon is a student-run organization that raises funds and awareness for children diagnosed with pediatric illnesses. 3. The Spartan Marching Band: The marching band is a significant part of MSU’s campus culture, and students can participate in marching band performances at football games and other events. 4. MSU Stand-Up: MSU Stand-Up is the university’s comedy club, offering opportunities for students to perform stand-up comedy and improve their skills. 5. Sparty’s Club: This club involves students dressing up as the mascot, Sparty, for events and games. These are only a few examples; there are over 900 registered student organizations at MSU!

Is the campus at Michigan State University safe?

Michigan State University (MSU) has taken several measures to ensure safety on campus. Campus police patrols the campus 24/7 and emergency phone stations are located throughout the campus. However, the safety of a campus depends on many factors, and incidents can still happen. It is important to take caution and report any suspicious activities immediately. MSU also offers a variety of resources to promote safety, including a campus escort service, self-defense classes, and safety workshops. Additionally, the university has various emergency alerts systems in place to ensure that students and faculty are notified of any potential danger on campus in a timely manner. Overall, while no campus can guarantee 100% safety, MSU has taken steps to provide a secure and safe environment for its students, faculty, and staff.