Michigan State University
MSU
East Lansing, Michigan 48824-1046
Data last updated: August 29, 2026
Strong graduate outcomes — known for business
Michigan State University is a public institution in East Lansing with particular strength in business and biology. With an average SAT of 1261, the school attracts a broad applicant pool.
A large campus of 40.2K undergraduates with a 17:1 student-faculty ratio. The urban location puts students at the center of city life.
82% of students graduate within four years, and graduates earn a median of $67,253 a decade after enrollment. Net price after aid averages $20,751.
Rankings
More About This School
Varsity Sports — Spartans
History & Fun Facts
- •His legacy is often contrasted with that of John Harvard, whose 17th-century gift established Harvard University, the nation's oldest college, which was named in his honor.
- •On February 12, 1855, Michigan Governor Kinsley S.
- •Bingham signed a bill establishing the nation's first agriculture college, the Agricultural College of the State of Michigan.
- •The board also oversaw the Michigan State Normal School in Ypsilanti, which had opened in 1852.
- •Classes began on May 13, 1857, with three buildings, five faculty members, and 63 male students.
Source: Wikipedia
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Admissions
SAT Score Ranges
Average: 1261
ACT Score Range
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard / IPEDS.
Deadline Calendar
Typical Application Requirements
Cost & Financial Aid
Sticker Price
Net Price by Family Income
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Net price reflects most recent cohort of federally-aided undergraduates.
Debt & Aid Detail
Net Price Trend
Tuition Trend
Graduate w/ Zero Debt
67.0%
Avg Tuition Increase
1.8%/yr
Median Debt at Grad
$19,500
Programs (347)
Outcomes
Median Earnings After Graduation
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Earnings reflect federally-aided students 6 and 10 years after entry.
Student Life
Student Satisfaction
Retention Rate
91%
Student Body
Race & Ethnicity
Campus Safety
Total Incidents (2024)
304
Peer Average
240
3-Year Trend
Emergency System
24/7 campus police department, blue-light phone network, emergency mass notification system
Incident Breakdown (2024)
Burglary
Aggravated Assault
Robbery
Motor Vehicle Theft
Sex Offenses
Arson
Drug Arrests
Liquor Arrests
Source: U.S. Department of Education Campus Safety & Security data (Clery Act, 2024 reporting year).
Location & Lifestyle
Cost of Living
Estimated from MI state average + city premium
Climate (School Year)
Nearest Cities
Getting There
Nearest Airports
Distance to Cities
Visit Planning
Nearby Hotels
Plan Your Visit
Days out near East Lansing
NewTwo or three colleges you can see in one day around Lansing, from real bookable tour times.
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