# Michigan State University

> public research university in East Lansing, Michigan, United States

**Wikidata**: [Q270222](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q270222)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Michigan_State_University)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/michigan-state-university

## Summary
Michigan State University (MSU) is a public research university located in East Lansing, Michigan, United States. Founded in 1855, it is a land-grant institution known for its strong academic programs, research contributions, and athletic traditions. MSU is one of the largest universities in the U.S., with a diverse student body and a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional degree programs.

## Key Facts
- **Founded**: February 12, 1855, as the Agricultural College of the State of Michigan.
- **Location**: East Lansing, Michigan, with additional facilities in nearby townships.
- **Type**: Public research university and land-grant institution.
- **Student Population**: Approximately 45,100 students (as of 2020), with 45,314 full-time equivalent students in 2021.
- **Endowment**: $3.88 billion (as of June 30, 2022).
- **Athletics**: Home to the Michigan State Spartans, competing in NCAA Division I.
- **Rankings**: Consistently ranked among the top 100 universities globally by the Shanghai Academic Ranking of World Universities.
- **Notable Alumni and Affiliates**: Includes computer scientists, mathematicians, and researchers such as Vernor Vinge and Charles Bachman.
- **Campus**: Spans multiple locations, including East Lansing, Lansing, and surrounding areas.
- **Mascot**: Spartans.

## FAQs
### Q: When was Michigan State University founded?
A: Michigan State University was founded on February 12, 1855, as the Agricultural College of the State of Michigan.

### Q: Where is Michigan State University located?
A: The main campus is in East Lansing, Michigan, with additional facilities in nearby areas like Lansing and Meridian Charter Township.

### Q: What is Michigan State University known for?
A: MSU is renowned for its research programs, strong academic offerings, and competitive athletics, particularly its Spartans teams. It is also a land-grant university with a historic focus on agriculture and applied sciences.

### Q: How many students attend Michigan State University?
A: As of 2021, MSU had approximately 45,314 full-time equivalent students, making it one of the largest universities in the United States.

### Q: What is the endowment of Michigan State University?
A: The university's endowment was valued at $3.88 billion as of June 30, 2022.

## Why It Matters
Michigan State University plays a significant role in higher education, research, and community development. As a land-grant institution, it has historically focused on making education accessible and practical, contributing to advancements in agriculture, engineering, and the sciences. MSU's research initiatives have led to innovations in various fields, including computer science, medicine, and environmental studies. The university also has a strong athletic tradition, fostering school spirit and community engagement. Additionally, MSU's large and diverse student body contributes to a vibrant campus culture, preparing graduates to excel in their careers and make meaningful contributions to society.

## Notable For
- **Land-Grant Heritage**: One of the first institutions established under the Morrill Act of 1862, focusing on agriculture, science, and engineering.
- **Research Excellence**: Classified as a "Doctoral University: Very High Research Activity" by the Carnegie Classification.
- **Athletic Achievements**: The Spartans have won multiple national championships in sports like basketball and football.
- **Diverse Academic Programs**: Offers over 200 academic programs across 17 degree-granting colleges.
- **Global Rankings**: Consistently ranked among the top 100 universities worldwide by the Shanghai Academic Ranking of World Universities.

## Body
### History and Founding
Michigan State University was founded on February 12, 1855, as the Agricultural College of the State of Michigan. It was established as a land-grant institution under the Morrill Act of 1862, which aimed to provide practical education in agriculture, science, and engineering. The university has undergone several name changes, including:
- **State Agricultural College** (1861–1909)
- **Michigan Agricultural College** (1909–1925)
- **Michigan State College of Agriculture and Applied Science** (1925–1955)
- **Michigan State University of Agriculture and Applied Science** (1955–1964)
- **Michigan State University** (1964–present)

### Campus and Facilities
MSU's main campus is located in East Lansing, Michigan, with additional facilities in nearby areas such as Lansing, Meridian Charter Township, and Delhi Charter Township. The campus spans over 5,200 acres and includes notable landmarks such as:
- **Spartan Stadium**: Home to the MSU football team.
- **Breslin Student Events Center**: A multi-purpose arena for basketball and other events.
- **Facility for Rare Isotope Beams**: A cutting-edge research facility for nuclear science.

### Academics and Research
MSU offers over 200 academic programs across 17 degree-granting colleges, including:
- **College of Engineering**
- **College of Human Medicine**
- **Eli Broad College of Business**
- **College of Communication Arts and Sciences**

The university is classified as a "Doctoral University: Very High Research Activity" by the Carnegie Classification, reflecting its strong emphasis on research and innovation. MSU is also a member of the Association of American Universities (AAU), a prestigious group of leading research universities in North America.

### Athletics
Michigan State University is home to the Spartans, who compete in NCAA Division I athletics. The university has a strong athletic tradition, with notable achievements in:
- **Basketball**: Multiple national championships and Final Four appearances.
- **Football**: Numerous conference titles and bowl game victories.
- **Ice Hockey**: Competitive programs for both men and women.

### Notable Alumni and Affiliates
MSU has produced many distinguished alumni and affiliates, including:
- **Vernor Vinge**: Renowned computer scientist and science fiction writer.
- **Charles Bachman**: Pioneer in computer science and recipient of the Turing Award.
- **Patricia J. Eberlein**: Mathematician and computer scientist.
- **William Frederick Friedman**: Cryptologist and key figure in the development of modern cryptanalysis.

### Rankings and Recognition
Michigan State University has been consistently ranked among the top universities globally. Some notable rankings include:
- **Shanghai Academic Ranking of World Universities**: Ranked 77th in 2005, 80th in 2006, and 99th in 2015.
- **Carnegie Classification**: Recognized for very high research activity and comprehensive programs.

### Community and Impact
MSU is deeply integrated into the East Lansing and greater Michigan communities. The university contributes to economic development, cultural enrichment, and social progress through its research, outreach programs, and partnerships with local organizations. MSU's commitment to diversity, inclusion, and sustainability further enhances its impact on society.

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## References

1. [GRID](https://www.grid.ac/institutes/grid.17088.36)
2. Global LEI Index
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50. [Source](http://www.msu.edu)