What is a residential college?
A residential college is a college where students in similar majors or academic programs live together in residence halls associated with their program. This makes for an exceptional educational setting with a vibrant and collaborative community.
The residential colleges at MSU provide the perfect blend of a small liberal arts college and a powerful research university. In addition to comfortable living spaces, these halls house faculty offices, academic advisers, classrooms, labs, libraries, art studios, study lounges, galleries, performance spaces and much more, giving students unparalleled access to campus resources. This immersive learning experience extends education far beyond the confines of the classroom.
Guaranteed admission to MSU
MSU guarantees admission for in-state students who apply to a residential college and meet the qualifications of our Assured Admission program.
The feel of a small, private college
- Classes and one-on-one advising in the same building where students live
- Smaller class sizes
- A strong community among classmates and faculty
- Professors know students by name and provide consistent encouragement and support
The support of a Big Ten university
- Access to world-class academic programs and research facilities
- Extensive volunteer, intern and job opportunities
- Experiential learning options around the globe
- Engaged alumni network ready to aid students
Residential College in the Arts and Humanities
For students interested in using the arts, literature, writing, languages and culture to build a better world
James Madison College
For students interested in the political, legal, social, economic and environmental issues affecting the world
Lyman Briggs College
For students interested in natural sciences and mathematics, as well as the social contexts of science
To apply, simply select the name of the residential college you are interested in as your major preference on your MSU undergraduate application for admission.
- Residential College in the Arts and Humanities: Select “Arts and Humanities”
- James Madison College: Select "James Madison College"
- Lyman Briggs College: Select "Lyman Briggs"
Once admitted to the university, students are selected for their preferred residential college on a first-come, first-served basis. Apply early to maximize your chances!
If you have already applied to MSU and you are interested in a residential college, you can log into your account and change your major preference to the name of the residential college you are interested in. The major change process usually takes 3-5 business days.
- Residential College in the Arts and Humanities: Select “Arts and Humanities”
- James Madison College: Select "James Madison College"
- Lyman Briggs College: Select "Lyman Briggs"
In the event that your major change request cannot be processed in your account, please directly contact the residential college you are interested in.
Yes. Students may combine their participation in the Honors College with any degree program at MSU, including every major within all three residential colleges.
Yes. Residential college students pay the same tuition rate and housing costs as all undergraduate students. You can enjoy living with others in your area of interest and having all of your classes, professors and advisers in the same building without paying more.
Living-learning communities
MSU is also home to several other living-learning communities based around shared academic interests. Unlike residential colleges, these communities are not part of degree-granting programs.
Learn more