Living & Learning Programs
MSU’s Living-Learning residential options
allow students who share similar
academic interests -PDF* or an interest in a multi-cultural living experience to live together in designated residence halls -PDF* or on particular residence hall floors. Some of the programs have faculty and academic advisor offices within the same residence hall. Many of the living-learning options allow for students to attend classes with the same group of peers with whom they share living space in the residence hall. Participating in a living-learning option allows a student to be part of a community of peers, faculty and staff who share similar academic interests.
Programs vary in size from Honors and James Madison at the college level, to ROSES, available only for the freshman year.
Honors College
Students of all majors who were in the top 5% of their high school graduating class and who had an ACT composite score of 30 (or greater) or an SAT combined score of 1360 (or greater) are invited to attend the 4-year Honors College program. Students may choose to reside on honors floors in Yakeley-Gilchrist, Case, Holmes, Bryan, and Mason residence halls.
Academic Scholars
This 2-year program is open by invitation of the Honors College to students of all majors who had an ACT composite score of 28 in conjunction with a 3.8+ high school GPA, or an ACT composite score of 27 in conjunction with a 4.0 high school GPA. Students in the Academic Scholars program reside in Holden Hall.
BROAD: Business Residential Option for Academic Distinction
Students majoring in business may participate, by invitation, in this one-year program. Students in the BROAD program reside in Shaw Hall.
James Madison College
Students interested in politics, public policy, law, and social issues may apply for James Madison as a major on the admission application. Space in the college is limited; students are encouraged to apply early. James Madison is a 4-year academic program; students live and study in Case Hall.
Lyman Briggs College
Students interested in science-based fields may apply for Lyman Briggs College as a major on the admission application. Space in the college is limited; students are encouraged to apply early. Lyman Briggs is a 4-year academic program; students live in Holmes Hall.
Residential College in the Arts and Humanities (RCAH)
New in fall 2007, the Residential College in the Arts and Humanities combines interdisciplinary study, personalized attention, and multiple learning opportunities. Students will be able to create an individualized program that includes literature, history, ethics, the visual and performing arts, and the study of languages and cultures. The RCAH is unique to each student experience. This program allows students to broaden their minds, enhance their skills, and prepare to interact with a changing world.
RISE: Residential Initiative on the Study of the Environment
This 4-year program is available to students pursuing studies in Science, Engineering, Agriculture, Social Science, and Communication Arts and Sciences, all with a focus on environmental studies. Participating students live in Hubbard Hall.
ROSES: Residential Option for Science and Engineering Students
Students majoring in Science, Engineering, and Agriculture and Natural Resources may participate in ROSES for 1 year. ROSES students reside in Bailey Hall.
MRULE: Multi-Racial Unity Living Experience
Any student may participate in the Multi-Racial Unity Living Experience (MRULE). Students who wish to participate should request any of the following on their housing reservation card: Wilson Hall, Brody Complex, West Circle Complex, or Hubbard Hall. Sign up for MRULE during Welcome Days.
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