School of Planning, Design and Construction

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It is not expected that all answers will be found in this text. Unforeseen questions will arise, and answers will be needed. Students should begin addressing their questions to the Graduate Secretary or assigned Major Professor. In most cases, the student’s Major Professor, Program Director or the Graduate Secretary will be able to provide the required information. Complex issues may require further advice or action from the School of Planning, Design and Construction (SPDC) faculty. Students have the option of following degree requirements set forth by the School of Planning, Design and Construction which are in effect during their first semester of enrollment or degree requirements which are published subsequent to their enrollment.

Updates and corrections to this handbook will be posted within this digital document on the School of Planning, Design and Construction website. (This information is important in reading this document.)

General Graduate Program Requirements

Introduction to SPDC

The School of Planning, Design and Construction (SPDC), jointly administered by the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources and the College of Social Science, is composed of four major disciplines: 

• Construction Management
• Interior Design
• Landscape Architecture
• Urban & Regional Planning

SPDC offers seven graduate programs between two colleges.  

Through the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, we offer

• Master of Science in Construction Management (MCM)
• Master of Art in Environmental Design (MED)
• Doctor of Philosophy in Planning, Design, and Construction (PhD-PDC) with transcriptable concentrations in
  • Construction Management
  • Environmental Design
  • Urban & Regional Planning
• Graduate Certificate in Real Estate Development and Construction (REDC)
• Graduate Certificate in Urban Resilient Redevelopment (URR)

 

Through the College of Social Science, we offer

• Master of Urban and Regional Planning (MURP)
• Master of International Planning Studies (MIPS)

 

The graduate student population of the School is characterized by diversity. There is a substantial representation of domestic and international students from a variety of countries in Asia, Europe, Africa, and the Americas. Many students, both domestic and international, have completed Undergraduate Degrees in Construction Management, Interior Design, Landscape Architecture, and Urban Planning or degrees in related disciplines such as Architecture, Engineering, Social Science, Business, and Environmental Design fields.  Students from Natural Science Degrees, along with Professional Degrees in Law, Medicine, and other fields are also encouraged to apply. 

Graduates of the School of Planning, Design and Construction are sought by employers domestically and internationally. Graduates with Advanced Degrees are more likely to select Education, Research, or Management positions than those with bachelor’s degrees, and less likely to be placed in entry-level positions. 

Facilities for advanced study and research are located on the top three floors of the Human Ecology Building, which is immediately east of the MSU Student Union. These facilities include multiple studio and computer laboratories, state of the art lecture halls, faculty offices, workrooms, and dedicated graduate student research and office space. Galleries for temporary displays and critique-presentations are located on two floors of the building.

Master Degree Components and Options

All graduate students engage in a combination of formal coursework as well as independent efforts that result in a Thesis, Plan B Report, or Exam. SPDC graduate degree programs are structured around the following components:

• Core courses
• Elective courses
• Research component, Plan A (Thesis) or Plan B (Non-Thesis).

Plan A – Thesis Option 

Students will be required to prepare a thesis. The thesis, based on original research, is designed to demonstrate the student's familiarity with the tools of research and scholarship in the field, the ability to work independently, and the ability to orally defend the results of a significant research effort. The Thesis must be accepted and approved by the student’s Guidance Committee in addition to passing an oral Thesis defense. The quality of the Thesis is expected to be comparable to Journal Publications within the student’s area of study.

Plan B – Report Option 

Complete a Plan B Report designed to demonstrate the student's familiarity with the tools of research and scholarship in the field, and the ability to orally present the results of a minor scholarly effort. The Plan B Report must be accepted and approved by the student’s Plan B Guidance Committee in addition to passing an oral presentation. The quality of the report is expected to be comparable to Conference Presentations within the student’s area of study. 

Plan B – Coursework Option 

Take a set of approved courses in addition to successfully completing a final exam administered by the School of Planning, Design and Construction. 

Options for Plan B differ by program, not every program offers both options.

Specific degree requirements for each major are defined in the program overview area of this handbook. 

Orientation

All on-campus graduate students are expected to attend the School of Planning, Design and Construction’s new graduate orientation held at the beginning of your first fall semester. The orientation will include an overview of the graduate degrees as well as school policies and procedures. Most importantly we want to familiarize students with the school and provide an opportunity for them to meet their fellow graduate students. During orientation students will also be introduced to the graduate faculty within SPDC. The faculty will give an overview of their research interests and activities, as well as any special research opportunities that currently exist. The orientation session should help students develop a plan for their program and identify potential members for their Guidance Committee. 

GradPlan 

Students in a Graduate Career will see the GradPlan tile on their home page after logging into https://student.msu.edu.  This system is where students will manage their Guidance Committee, Course Plan, annual activities, and submit annual reviews.  GradPlan will also record Responsible Conduct of Research training, and student milestones such as comprehensive exams and final defenses.  The Graduate School has created a Job Aid to help in completing the GradPlan requirements.  Please utilize this resource when completing the below requirements.

Guidance Committee

A Guidance Committee is selected by the student with advice from the Major Professor. Members of the committee act as mentors, advisors, and evaluators for the student’s program and research. They approve the students’ academic program of study, Plan A Thesis, or Plan B Final Report, as applicable. All committee members are regular faculty of MSU or specialists that have been approved by the Graduate School to serve on Guidance Committees. 

Master’s students following a Plan A Thesis option should have a committee comprised of at least three members.  The Committee Chair and at least one committee member must be faculty within the program.  The third committee member must be faculty member from outside the program.  Masters students following a Plan B Report option should have a committee comprised of at least two members.  The Committee Chair must be a faculty member within the program.  Masters students following a Plan B Exam will have a committee comprised solely of their Major Professor, which must be a faculty member within the program. 

Once designated, the guidance committee has the responsibility to meet periodically to oversee the graduate student’s progress as long as the graduate student continues in good standing. (GSRR. 2.4.2)

Selection of Major Professor

Students should refer to the handbook specific to their degree for information on assignment and selection of a Major Professor. 

Changes to Guidance Committee or Major Professor

In the rare case when the student needs to make a change to his or her Guidance Committee or Major Professor, a written request must be addressed to the Program Director explaining the reason for the change.  The Program Director will evaluate the request and determine the proper course of action.  If the Program Director is one of the committee members to be changed, then the request should be made to the Director and the Director will evaluate.

Request for Non-Regular Faculty to serve on Guidance Committee

In general, no more than one non-regular faculty member may serve on a graduate committee.  The number of non-regular faculty may not exceed the number of regular MSU faculty on the committee.

To request a waiver to include a non-regular faculty on the graduate committee.  The Graduate School procedure must be followed.  Contact the graduate secretary for assistance with this process.

Course Plan

All students are required to submit a formal plan of the graduate degree called the Course Plan.  This plan indicates all the courses the student will complete during their Master’s program.  Within the first academic year graduate students must submit their Course Plan via GradPlan and route it for approvals.  

Note: Plan A Thesis and Plan B project students must first submit their guidance committee in GradPlan before submitting their Course Plan.  

Changes to Course Plan

Once submitted, changes to the course plan should be submitted via Manage Course Plan.

For all degree programs it is strongly suggested that graduate students map out their coursework and requirements early as many courses are taught only one semester per year and others may require prerequisites. 

Research Overview

Every Fall, graduate students will be assigned an activity guide where they will answer a series of questions about their student rights, responsibilities, and research needs.  This is to be completed or re-certified every year for the duration of the graduate program.

Annual Review – Academic Performance

Every Spring semester, graduate students will meet with their advisor to conduct an evaluation of their academic progress, performance, and professional potential. The Evaluation Form should be completed when the Major Professor meets with the graduate student to review the student’s progress in regards to his or her coursework, research or creative activity, as well as plans for work in the coming year (GSRR 2.4.8). This evaluation will assist students to define their strengths and weaknesses, allowing the student to improve the weaker performance areas.  The annual review is also an opportunity for the graduate student to reflect on their experiences in the program and offer their assessment and critiques.  A letter or written report on the results of this review will be signed by the student and Major Professor.  A copy of this report will be uploaded to GradPlan either by the student or by the Graduate Secretary.   

The following outline should be used by the Major Professor when preparing their portion of the annual review.

• Academic Ability:
  • Individual grades and grade-point average
  • Progress on special problem topics, Thesis/Dissertation.

• Analytical Ability:
  • Student’s initiative in the choice of a research topic
  • Student’s initiative in the analysis of a research topic
  • Student’s performance in the execution of research.

• Communication:
  • Student’s ability in oral communication
  • Student’s ability in written communication. 

 

Guidelines for students under Plan A – Thesis Option

Plan A – Thesis Proposal 

The student must present to their major professor and guidance committee a proposal for their thesis research. Once the proposed research topic has been approved, the student will conduct research and begin writing the thesis. The thesis should be finalized in the layout specified by the Graduate School of MSU. Students should consult the “Thesis and Dissertation Formatting Guide” from the Graduate School for details on the layout and other requirements. Students should also refer to the MSU Graduate School’s “Guidelines for Integrity in Research and Creative Activities.” 

Plan A – Thesis Oral Defense 

Plan A students are required to pass an oral defense given to their Major Professor and Guidance Committee that covers their thesis topic. To pass, the student must receive positive votes from the majority of their committee. The following items constrain the thesis oral defense: 

• The student must be registered during the semester in which the examination or evaluation is administered (see Maximum and Minimum Credits). This requirement may be waived if the examination is administered during the summer session immediately following a spring semester during which the student was registered and/or prior to a fall semester in which the student will be registered.
• The student MUST provide their major professor and guidance committee a copy of the thesis at least two weeks prior to the defense.
• Once student has confirmed a date/time, they’ll contact the graduate secretary to reserve a conference room. At this time the student will provide the title of his or her thesis so the appropriate announcements can be sent out. This MUST be done at least two weeks prior to the defense, no exceptions. 

 

Plan A – Thesis Submission 

After successful completion of the oral defense and upon the Guidance Committee’s approval, a copy of the Thesis (with all corrections made) must be submitted to the Graduate School for approval via the Grad School Process. The Plan A – Thesis must be formatted according to the standards established in the Thesis and Dissertation Formatting Guide published at the Graduate School. 

Students submitting a thesis/dissertation to ProQuest now can request a hold/embargo of publication by ProQuest by contacting the Graduate School at msuetds.approval@grd.msu.edu or calling 517 353 3220. In response to the request, the Graduate School will send directly to the student a form that needs to be completed and turned to the Graduate School prior to the document submission to ProQuest. The form needs to be signed by the student’s major professor and by the Associate Dean of the student’s college. The request for the hold/embargo may be for six months, one year or two years. Requests for a period longer than six months must include a brief justification for the length of the requested hold/embargo.

The Graduate School now permits the submission of supplementary materials to ProQuest. These supplemental materials will not be reviewed by the Graduate School for formatting requirements, but they must be acceptable by ProQuest and comply with ProQuest’s criteria and storage limits. All supplementary materials need written approval of the Thesis Committee Chair. 

The MSU Library may accept supplementary materials approved by the Thesis Committee Chair per their collection criteria. The Graduate School does not review these materials for formatting requirements. Questions about submission of these materials to the MSU Library should be directed to the assistant director for digital information, currently Shawn Nicholson. He can be reached via email at nicho147@mail.lib.msu.edu.

At the time of submission to ProQuest, authors have the opportunity to create an ORCID (Open Researcher and Contributor ID) that provides researchers with a unique identifier for linking their research outputs and activities. An ORCID:

• Improves recognition of research contributions
• Reduces form-filling (enter data once, re-use it often)
• Works with many institutions, funders, and publishers
• Is a requirement of many journal manuscript submission systems and grant application forms.

To learn more about ORCID go to: https://vimeo.com/237730655 

 

Guidelines for students under Plan B Report or Exam Option 

Plan B Report Proposal

The student must present to their Major Professor and Guidance Committee a proposal for their report. After the proposed research topic has been approved, the student will conduct research and begin writing their report. The report should be finalized in the layout specified by the Graduate School of MSU. Plan B Report students should still obtain a copy of the “Thesis/Dissertation Formatting Guide” from the Graduate School for details on the layout and other requirements. Students should also refer to the MSU Graduate Schools “Guidelines for Integrity in Research and Creative Activities.” 

Plan B Report Presentation

Under this option students are required to give an oral presentation of their report to their Major Professor and Guidance Committee. In order to pass, the student must receive positive votes from the majority of their committee. The following items constrain the report presentation: 

• The student must be registered during the semester in which the examination or evaluation is administered (see Maximum and Minimum Credits). This requirement may be waived if the examination is administered during the summer session immediately following a spring semester during which the student was registered and/or prior to a fall semester in which the student will be registered.
• The student MUST provide their Major Professor and Guidance Committee a copy of the report at least two weeks prior to the presentation.
• Once student has confirmed a date/time, they’ll contact the Graduate Secretary to reserve a conference room. At this time the student will provide the title of his or her report so the appropriate announcements can be sent out. This MUST be done at least two weeks prior to the defense, no exceptions. 

 

Plan B Final Exam

Under this option students must successfully complete a final exam as determined by their Major Professor.  Successful completion is defined as a minimum of 80% score as determined by examining faculty or passing the AIC exam (for Construction Management Plan B students).

Graduation Guidelines

Graduation Eligibility

Student.msu.edu determines when a student is eligible to apply for graduation.   Once eligible, after clicking on the Academic Progress tile, you will see al ink to Apply for Graduation in the left-hand navigation under the Graduation heading.  If the student does not graduate during the intended semester, the application for graduation must be moved to a new semester by the Graduate Secretary.

Commencement Ceremony 

The Graduate Advanced Degree ceremonies will be held on the Friday of finals week in the Breslin Center.  The Masters ceremony begin at 9:00 am, while the Doctoral ceremonies begin at 3:30pm.  Graduates and faculty should arrive one hour in advance, allowing time to put gowns on and be properly ordered for the procession. Students may choose which semester they participate in commencement.  Typically students who will graduate in fall semester will participate in the December ceremony, while students who will graduate in spring or summer semesters will participate in the ceremony held at the end of spring semester. The university does not hold summer commencement ceremonies.  To be listed in the ceremony program, students should apply for graduation early in the semester they intend to graduate.

Student Responsibilities and Expectations

It is the responsibility of ALL graduate students to: 

• Learn and adhere to university and academic unit rules, procedures and policies, including those outlined in this graduate handbook. The academic programs, Graduate Student Rights and Responsibilities, and The Academic Freedom for students at MSU are all available at the Graduate School Website.
• Select a Major Professor and form a Guidance Committee that meets University and school requirements. These committee members should remain informed of the students’ academic progress throughout the length of their program.
• After consultation with the Major Professor a completed academic progress report/annual evaluation should be submitted to the Graduate Secretary at the end of each spring semester. This form is available at Graduate School Website.
• Follow disciplinary and scholarly codes of ethics in course work, research, and professional activities found online at MSU Student Rights and Responsibilities.
• Follow high ethical standards in accordance with university and federal guidelines in collecting and maintaining data, including seeking regulatory approval for research before any research project begins
• Provide the school with copies of research-related documents (such as permits, approvals, grant proposals, research proposals) within the prescribed deadlines.

Academic Standards

Academic Records

Each student will have an academic file on record containing application materials, grade reports, academic program of study materials, and copies of official letters from the school and faculty. Students have the right to challenge the accuracy of academic files. This challenge, correction or inaccuracy is addressed by the student writing a letter that is to be placed in his or her academic file. Students may examine their file by making an appointment with the Graduate Secretary. If a student is an employee of MSU, a separate employment file will be maintained by the employing office/program/department.

Time Limit to Complete Degree

It is vital that students make adequate progress in their graduate programs. Lack of satisfactory progress towards their degree may jeopardize their funding status, graduate student benefits, or it may lead to dismissal of the program. The Major Professor conducts an annual review and informs the student of his or her level of progress. 

The time limit for completion of the requirements for the master’s degree set by the University is:

• Five years for students in degrees administered by the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources.
• Six years for students in degrees administered by the College of Social Science.
• Applications for extension periods toward the degree must be submitted by the School for approval by the Dean of the College and the Dean of the Graduate School.

 

Completion is from the enrollment date of the student’s first course of the master’s degree program. (This information is important in reading this document.) 

Grades

The student must earn a grade of 2.0 or higher for each course on the approved academic program of study. Any course on the approved academic program of study for which the grade earned falls below the 2.0 requirement will need to be repeated. 

College of Social Science guidelines state that the accumulation of grades below 2.0 in more than two semester courses of 3 or more credits each removes the student from candidacy for the degree. It is imperative that a student contact the Program Director if a grade less than 2.0 is earned for a course.  A student in danger of falling below the overall GPA of 3.0 may be removed from degree candidacy.

Cumulative Grade-Point Average

The student must maintain a cumulative grade-point average of at least 3.0 in all courses counting towards the master’s degree, as approved on the academic program of study.  This policy does not apply to courses taken below the 400-level unless the courses are required by the student’s program.  

Probation Status

A student is placed on probation status if their cumulative grade-point average for the courses on the approved Academic Program of Study fall below the 3.0 requirement. Once placed on probation students should meet with their chair to determine a feasible plan of action and review the mathematical probability of achieving a 3.0 after once semester of probation.  Should a student’s cumulative grade-point average fall below this requirement after completing half of the courses on the approved academic program of study, the student will be placed on probationary status for one additional semester. If at the end of the additional semester the student’s cumulative grade-point average is 3.0 or higher, the student may continue to enroll in the master’s degree program. If at the end of the probationary semester, the student’s cumulative grade-point average is still below 3.0, the student will be dismissed from the program.

 All students must meet the academic criteria set by the School of Planning, Design and Construction. In addition to meeting the grade criteria requirement, an annual evaluation for each graduate student is prepared during each spring semester. The Major Professor is responsible for the preparation of the evaluation along with the communication to the student using the following outline. 

• Academic Ability:
  • Individual grades and grade-point average
  • Progress on special problem topics, Thesis/Dissertation

• Analytical Ability:
  • Student’s initiative in the choice of a research topic
  • Student’s initiative in the analysis of a research topic
  • Student’s performance in the execution of research

• Communication:
  • Student’s ability in oral communication
  • Student’s ability in written communication. 

When the student’s performance or progress does not meet the School requirements, he or she shall be notified by the Associate Director. When the deficiencies affect the student’s academic status, he or she shall be promptly informed. A student is placed on probation if their cumulative grade-point average for the courses on the approved academic program of study fall below 3.0.

Retention in and Dismissal from the Program

Should a student’s cumulative grade-point average fall below 3.0 after completion of 16 or more credits of courses on the approved academic program of study, the student will be placed on probationary status for one additional semester. If at the end of the additional semester the student’s cumulative grade-point average is 3.0 or higher, the student may continue to enroll in the master’s degree program. If at the end of the additional semester the student’s cumulative grade-point average is still below 3.0, the student will be dismissed from the program. In addition, students in degree programs administered by the College of Social Science shall not have more than two 3-credit courses with grades below 3.0 (including N grades in the P–N grading system).

 Failure of meeting this requirement will result in the student being dismissed from the program; this policy does not apply to courses below the 400 level unless the courses are required for the student's program.

Grief Absence Policy

For Master’s Plan A and Plan B that include research responsibilities, it is the responsibility of the student to:

• Contact their Major Professor and faculty of the course(s) in which they’re currently enrolled, requesting the need for a grief absence in a timely manner, but no later than one week from the student’s initial knowledge of the situation.
• Provide appropriate verification for the grief absence as specified by the Major Professor and faculty.
• Complete all missed work as determined in consultation with the Major Professor and faculty.

 

It is the responsibility of the Major Professor to: 

• Determine with the student the allowable periods of absence – it is expected that some bereavement processes may be more extensive than others depending on the individual circumstances.
• Receive verification of the authenticity of a grief absence request upon the students return.
• Make reasonable accommodations so that the student is not penalized due to a verified grief.

 

If employed as a Graduate Research or Teaching Assistant, the student must also notify their employer. Both employer and student will swiftly communicate to determine how the student’s responsibilities will be covered during their absence. Graduate Teaching Assistants (TAs) should refer to the bereavement policy in the MSU GEU CBU Article 18. Students who believe their rights under this policy have been violated should contact the University Ombudsperson. 

Course Waiver

Students requesting course waivers must compile suitable documentation for how the proposed course is comparable. Suitable documentation may include but is not limited to: course syllabi, examinations, term papers, bibliographies, textbooks, reading lists, and lecture notes. Lack of suitable documentation may result in a denied request. Once documentation is compiled, students will request written permissions from their Guidance Committee and the instructor of the course to be waived. After completing the preceding steps, students must submit all materials to their Major Professor.

Transfer Courses

Students may transfer no more than 9 approved semester credits of course work, excluding research and Thesis credits.  Credits transferred are established through the Program of Study as agreed upon by the student’s committee.  Credits must be verified through official transcripts.  Transferred credits must have been earned at a 3.0 or above, or equivalent as determined by chair (if not on a 4.0 scale), to be included.

Credit Sharing Policy

If your program includes more than 30 credits, then you may share up to 30% of the total credits with another Master’s Program.

Independent Study

At Michigan State University an independent study is a planned study that is highly individualized and not addressable through any other course format. In essence, a student must design a full course for his or her program with the help of a faculty member. Students electing to undertake an independent study must select a faculty member who agrees to supervise the project. 

The student must complete and submit an Application for Independent Study to the Major Professor for approval. The application should then be submitted to the Graduate Secretary to obtain the Associate Director’s approval. Once this has been completed, an override will be issued, and the student may register for the course and the number of credits agreed upon.

The Independent Study must:

• Consist of work not described in the MSU description of courses book in any other format.
• Relate to a subject for which the student has adequate preparation.
• Be directed by a faculty member with whom they have periodic contact with throughout the study.
• Not exceed a maximum of 4 credits of independent study per semester or 8 credits in a single academic year, subject to the School, College and Graduate School restrictions.
• Be applied for on the application for independent study form.
• Be approved by the Major Professor and the department offering the course before the student may enroll.
• Enroll during the regular enrollment period.

 

Ideally a student should begin designing the independent study course with the prospective faculty member one semester prior to beginning the application process. 

Study Abroad/Travel Abroad

Study Abroad Programs are designed to be of benefit to students of all disciplines. In some SPDC programs students can fulfill certain course requirements with Study Abroad credits; this fosters completion of the degree program while gaining valuable, overseas experience. SPDC offers a variety of Study Abroad options. For additional information visit the Study Abroad Website.

Polices Regarding Integrity and Safety in Research

Integrity in Research and Creative Activities

The conduct of research and creative activities by faculty, staff, and students is central to the mission of Michigan State University “Mission Statement” approved by the Board of Trustees on April 18, 2008 and is an institutional priority. Faculty, staff, and students work in a rich and competitive environment for the common purpose of learning, creating new knowledge, and disseminating information and ideas for the benefit of their peers and the general public. The stature and reputation of MSU as a research University are based upon the commitment of its faculty, staff, and students to excel in scholarly and creative activities at the highest standards of professional integrity. 

As a partner in scholarly endeavors, MSU is committed to creating an environment that promotes ethical conduct and integrity in research and creative activities. Innovative ideas and advances in research and creative activities have the potential to generate professional and public recognition, and in some instances, commercial interest and financial gain. In rare cases, such benefits may become motivating factors to violate professional ethics. Pressures to publish, to obtain research grants, or to complete academic requirements also may lead to an erosion of professional integrity. 

Breaches in professional ethics range from questionable research practices to misconduct (MSU Faculty handbook, chapter VI, “Research and Creative Endeavor—Procedures Concerning Allegations of Misconduct in Research and Creative Activities”). The primary responsibility for adhering to professional standards lies with the individual scholar. It is, however, also the responsibility of advisors and of the disciplinary community at large. Passive acceptance of improper practices lowers inhibitions to violate professional ethics. 

Students should also refer to MSU Graduate School’s “Guidelines for Integrity in Research and Creative Activities.” Integrity in research and creative activities are based not only on sound disciplinary practice but also on a commitment to basic personal values such as fairness, equity, honesty, and respect. These guidelines are intended to promote high professional standards by everyone—faculty, staff, and students alike.

Key Principles

Integrity in research and creative activities embodies a range of practices that include: 

• Honesty in proposing, performing, and reporting research
• Recognition of prior work
• Confidentiality in peer review
• Disclosure of potential conflicts of interest
• Compliance with institutional and sponsor requirements
• Protection of human subjects and humane care of animals in the conduct of research
• Collegiality in scholarly interactions and sharing of resources
• Adherence to fair and open relationships between senior scholars and their coworkers

 

Students are encouraged to read the complete text of “Integrity in Research and Creative Activities,” which is available from The Graduate School.  

Environmental Health & Safety (EHS)

The use of hazardous materials in research, teaching, or outreach activities are subject to State and Federal Laws and guidelines. The Vice President for research and graduate studies has been assigned responsibility to see that appropriate practices are followed where hazardous materials are involved, to maintain a safe environment for campus personnel, to protect the surrounding community, and to assure that MSU meets its obligations under Law. Oversight of activities involving hazardous substances is provided by the EHS. EHS is assisted by faculty committees in the area of radiation safety, chemical safety, and biological safety. The radiation safety committee has responsibility and authority under Federal Law for specific actions.

The EHS provides live and on-line training classes throughout the year to educate the employees and students of Michigan State University on safe work practices. Completion of these courses by MSU personnel ensures that the University is fulfilling Local, State and Federal regulations in radiation, chemical, biological, hazardous waste, and environmental safety. For more information about courses available, contact the EHS at (517) 355-0153.

Human Subjects Research

A student whose research involves human subjects must receive approval for their project from the Human Research Protection Program (HRPP) prior to initiating data collection for their Master’s Thesis, Pre-Dissertation Research, or Doctoral Dissertation. HRPP is an Institutional Review Board (IRB) and Federal and University regulations require that all research projects involving human subjects be reviewed and approved by an IRB before initiation. 

Under the regulations, research is defined as a formal investigation designed to develop or contribute to general knowledge. A human subject of research is an individual (1) from whom an investigator obtains data by interaction or intervention or (2) about whom the researcher obtains confidential information. 

Depending upon the level of risk to subjects in the protocol, HRPP assigns the student’s application to one of three review categories (exempt from full review, expedited review, and full review) and sends it to one, two or five reviewers, respectively. If the reviewer(s) is satisfied that the rights and welfare of the human subjects are adequately protected, he or she approves it. However, if the reviewer has concerns, the reviewer returns written comments to the HRPP office for transmission to the investigator. The investigator must then send a response to each comment, in writing, to HRPP which will forward it to the reviewer(s). If the proposal is either an exempt or expedited proposal, an approval letter can be issued as soon as the reviewer(s) approves. 

When a proposal receives full (five-member sub-committee) review, an approval letter is issued after the proposal is discussed and approved by vote of the full committee at its monthly meeting. More information can be found online at the Human Research Protection Program. Copies of the HRPP application form and the official notification of HRPP approval must be kept in the student’s academic file maintained by the school’s Graduate Secretary and in the files maintained by the student’s Major Professor. The student also should keep copies in his or her own personal files. Failure to satisfy the University standards and HRPP regulations is considered grounds for dismissal from the program. A copy of the approval must be included as an appendix in the Thesis/Dissertation.

MSU Responsible Conduct of Research Training (RCR)

Background

Training in the Responsible Conduct of Research is essential in the preparation of future scholars and professionals. An understanding of the issues concerning the conduct of research in an increasingly complex world has become critical in successfully navigating the research landscape. To help prepare Michigan State University graduate students for their future scholarly work, a plan for providing the foundation of responsible conduct has been developed in coordination with the Graduate School, the Vice President for Research and Graduate Studies Office, and college associate deans for graduate education. The plan is predicated on the principles that a basic understanding of issues is necessary through didactic training and a periodic reinforcement of the principles through discussion. It is the belief that this plan will provide a foundation for all graduate students as well as others pursuing a career in research and will offer the basic information to meet most, if not all, federal agency granting requirements. 

 

The plan below represents the minimum university-level and School requirements 

 

The Graduate School RCR Workshop series may be used to help fulfill both the annual refresher and discussion-based training requirements. 

 

*Students who are supported by NSF, NIH, or USDA grants may be required to complete additional specific training; they must meet the timeline and content requirements of training for that grant. 

 

*Students engaged in research involving human subjects or animal use must complete the Michigan State University training modules for those subjects before submitting IRB or IACUC approvals. These modules may be completed as part of the training requirements below, or in addition to them, depending on the department/program or college plan. 

 

Requirements

 

All Graduate Professional, Master’s and Doctoral Students 

1) Year 1 

All new graduate students will complete 4 CITI online modules within the first year of enrollment in their program: Completion of this requirement will be tracked in Ability and included in the annual student progress review submitted to the School.

• Introduction to the Responsible Conduct of Research 
• Authorship 
• Plagiarism
• Research Misconduct 

 

2) Discussion-Based Training 

All graduate students must complete a minimum of 6 hours of discussion-based training prior to receiving their degrees.  This is through completion of the required course: 

IDES 892 for Environmental Design Masters

CMP 893 for Construction Management Masters

URP 814 for Urban and Regional Planning Masters 

PDC 901 for Planning, Design & Construction PhD

 

Master’s Plan A and Doctoral Students 

In addition to 1 and 2 above, master’s plan A and doctoral students will complete: 

Year 2 

Within the first 2 years of enrollment in their program, master’s plan A and doctoral students will complete 3 additional MSU online training modules, to be selected from the following list as determined by the major professor.  Completion of this requirement will be tracked in Ability and included in the annual student progress review submitted to the School. 

 

• CITI Collaborative Research 
• CITI Conflicts of Interest 
• CITI Data Management 
• CITI Financial Responsibility 
• CITI Mentoring 
• CITI Peer Review 

 

Doctoral Students

In addition to 1, 2 and 3 above, doctoral students will complete: 

Annual Refresher Training 

Starting in year 3, all doctoral students must complete 3 hours of annual refresher training; this can include discussion-based training, CITI refresher training and online courses beyond those required in basic training. Selection is in consultation with the Major Advisor.  Completion of this requirement will be tracked in Ability and included in the annual student progress review submitted to the School. 

 

* Doctoral students who have completed an MSU Master’s degree which included the basic RCR training requirements:  The required PDC 901 and PDC 992 RCR activities will meet the annual refresher training in the first two years of academic study. 

Record-Keeping and Accountability

Written documentation of completion of RCR requirements should be included in the annual evaluation conducted between a student and their Major Professor, and once signed, submitted to the Graduate Secretary to be filed in the student’s academic folder.

Links & Resources

SABA: https://train.ora.msu.edu/Saba/Web/Main 

Office of Regulatory Affairs links to SABA and CITI: http://ora.msu.edu/train 

RCR information through Office of Regulatory Affairs: http://ora.msu.edu/responsible-conduct-research 

RCR information through Grad School: https://grad.msu.edu/researchintegrity 

CITI Training: http://ora.msu.edu/citiprogramorg 

Michigan State University Guidelines on Authorship

Adopted by the University Research Council on January 15, 1998, available online at Research Council Guidelines.

Authorship

A person claiming authorship of a scholarly publication must have met the following criteria: 

• Substantial participation in conception and design of the study, or in analysis and interpretation of data
• Substantial participation in the drafting of the manuscript or in the substantive editing of the manuscript
• Final approval of the version of the manuscript to be published
• Ability to explain and defend the study in public or scholarly settings

 

Note: This criteria follows closely with those recommended by several Professional Associations. See especially the International Committee of Medical Journal Editors, Annals of Internal Medicine 1988; 108: 258-65. (This information is important in reading this document.)

 

Acknowledgment

Contributions that do not justify authorship should be acknowledged separately in the notes to the manuscript. These may include general supervision of a research group, assistance in obtaining funding, or technical support. 

“Honorary Authorship”

A claim of authorship by, or assignment of authorship to, persons who may have been associated in some way with a study but do not meet the four criteria in item 1 may constitute an unethical research practice. 

Graduate Student Authorship

"Faculty should be especially aware of their responsibility to safeguard the rights of graduate students to publish the results of their research." (MSU Research Handbook, 1985, p. 16, section 4.3.1.) 

Senior Author and Order of Authorship

The senior author is generally defined as the person who leads a study and makes a major contribution to the work. All the authors at the outset of a project should establish senior authorship, preferably in a written memorandum of understanding. This memorandum of understanding should reference the authors’ agreement to abide by their departments’ policy on authorship or the University default policy on authorship. At the outset of the study the senior author should discuss the outline of work and a tentative order of authorship with the study participants. As projects proceed, agreements regarding authorship may need to be changed. It is the responsibility of the senior author to assure that the contributions of study participants are properly recognized. 

Disputes over Authorship

Disagreements over authorship, e.g., who has a right to be an author or the order of authorship, should be resolved by the senior author in collegial consultation with the other authors. When this process cannot reach resolution, the senior author should arrange with his or her chairperson for arbitration by a knowledgeable and disinterested third party acceptable to all the authors. If the authors cannot agree on a mutually acceptable arbitrator, then the Vice President for research and graduate studies shall appoint an arbitrator. During the arbitration process all the authors are expected to refrain from unilateral actions that may damage the authorship interests and rights of the other authors. 

Accountability

Every author listed on a publication is presumed to have approved the final version of the manuscript. Each author is responsible for the integrity of the research being reported. 

Plagiarism

The word plagiarism is derived from the Latin plagiarist, an abductor, and plagiary, to steal. The expropriation of another author’s text, and the presentation of it as one’s own, constitutes plagiarism. Plagiarism, in turn, constitutes misconduct in scholarship under university policies and procedures. Plagiarism in scholarly projects should be reported to one’s Chairperson, Dean, or the University Intellectual Integrity Officer (American Historical Association, Statements on Standards, 1993, p. 13). 

Student Conduct and Conflict Resolution

Student Conduct

The University expects student conduct and behavior to reflect qualities of good citizenship. The out-of-classroom activities of Michigan State University students should reflect favorably upon the institution and should indicate the personal integrity of the individual. See the Department of Student Life Handbook for specific policies, ordinances and regulations that define some of the relevant University expectations. 

Conflict Resolution

Conflicts involving a graduate student may be managed informally, or at the request of a party or parties, formally. Student’s rights and responsibilities, including grievance procedures, are detailed in the document Student Conduct and Conflict Resolution. 

Procedures more specifically designed for Graduate students are to be found in the Publication Graduate Student Rights and Responsibilities.  

Grievance procedures outlined in these documents shall be followed and the College Advisory Council shall be responsible for the interpretation and execution of these procedures in the College. Students also have access to the University Ombudsman for help with conflict resolution. A template and additional information on grievance procedures and resources available to students may be found online at the MSU Office of the University Ombudsperson. 

Graduate Student Advising and Mentoring

The School of Planning, Design, and Construction advising and mentoring policies are consistent with the Guidelines for Graduate Student Advising and Mentoring Relationships accessed at Guidelines for Graduate Student Mentoring and Advising.

The Program will pay particular attention to the following:

• Enable graduate students to make timely progress in their degree programs by ensuring that required courses and examinations are scheduled in a timely manner
• Create opportunities for networking and expanding career and professional development (e.g., organizing speaker series, colloquia, and other formal and informal events)
• Create opportunities for graduate students to become familiar with the various forms of scholarship in the field whether it be with their disciplinary research, teaching or outreach.
• Share responsibility with guidance committees and faculty advisors for fostering the professional and career development of graduate students (e.g., providing venues for honing professional writing and presentation skills, grants writing, publishing)
• Ensure that regular progress checks are provided for students (including annual written evaluations)
• Provide education in research ethics and integrity
• Recognize and reward excellence in mentoring, and identifying opportunities for professional development so that faculty can improve their mentoring skills and abilities
• Connect faculty to a broader community of support by sharing information about MSU and Graduate School resources that can support them in mentoring graduate students

 

Graduate Assistantships

 

Selection of Graduate Research and Teaching Assistants

Graduate Research and Teaching Assistants are appointed on a quarter-time, half-time, or three-quarter-time basis for 18-19 weeks each (depending on number of university holidays) for fall and spring semesters and 12-13 weeks (depending on number of university holidays) for summer semester. Graduate Assistantships may be offered by individual faculty members to assist with sponsored research.  Graduate assistants are responsible for knowing the specific policies and procedures that govern their particular assistantship and academic program.  Please contact the faculty member to learn about specific duties, assignments and expectations.  

Graduate Research and Teaching Assistantships

Graduate Research and Teaching Assistantship support for students is determined on an individual basis depending upon recommendations, availability of funds, fellowship and scholarship support, and academic record. Assistantships are reviewed annually by the Director of the school and may be renewed if satisfactory progress is being made and funds are available.  Graduate Assistants are required to maintain a 3.0 GPA, and satisfactorily perform all duties and responsibilities.  All GAships are contingent upon continued adequate funding. The faculty member may or may not have funding to support all or part of the position offered and reserves the right to solely determine the extent of available funding and, if necessary, withdraw or adjust the terms of the assistantship. 

The University has no obligation to provide reappointment or extension beyond the ending date.  GAs may be dismissed prior to the expiration of the period set forth for cause, including but not limited to, incompetence, serious personal or professional misconduct, failure to carry out assigned duties, theft or misuse of University property, acts of moral turpitude, insubordination, intellectual dishonesty, use of professional authority to exploit others, or violation of law and/or University rules and regulations.

Graduate Assistants are covered under other MSU policies, including those regarding campus safety, Drug and Alcohol-Free Workplace, policy on Religious Observance, Procedures for Handling Allegations of Misconduct in Scholarship, MSU Anti-discrimination Policy, and the policies on Sexual Harassment and Conflict of Interest in Educational Responsibilities Resulting from Consensual Amorous or Sexual Relationships.  Additional information can be accessed at https://grad.msu.edu/assistantships.

If you have an assistantship, you are required to enroll for a minimum of 6 credits at the master’s level and 3 credits at the Ph.D. level during fall and spring semesters and 3 credits in summer semester for both Master’s and Ph.D. degrees. At the Ph.D. level, once you complete your comprehensive exams, the following semesters you need to only be enrolled for a minimum of 1 credit. (This information is important in reading this document.)

Expectations

Graduate Teaching Assistants (TAs) play a vital role in the educational mission of MSU. Disciplinary knowledge and instructional skills are key requisites for being a successful teacher, but TAs are also expected to conform to ethical and professional standards described in the MSU code of teaching responsibility. TAs must treat students with respect, deal with conflict fairly and promote a classroom atmosphere that encourages free and meaningful exchange of ideas. 

Graduate Research Assistants (RAs) at Michigan State University play a vital role in the research and outreach missions of MSU. Disciplinary knowledge and research/laboratory skills are key requisites for conducting research, but RAs are also expected to conform to ethical and professional standards described in the MSU faculty handbook section IV: Research and Creative Endeavors. This section includes information on working with animal and human subjects, radiation, chemical, and biological safety, and adherence to federal guidelines on data generation, management and control. Sections of the academic freedom report for MSU students and the graduate student Rights and Responsibilities document also contain valuable information. 

Normal workload, averaged over the entire period of the appointment is:

• 10 hours per week for a quarter-time stipend
• 20 hours per week for a half-time stipend
• 30 hours per week for a three-quarter-time stipend.

 

English Language Proficiency for Teaching Assistants 

MSU candidates for TA appointments who were required to demonstrate English proficiency as a condition for regular admission to Michigan State University must also demonstrate that they meet a minimum standard of proficiency in spoken English before they can be assigned teaching work that involves oral communication with undergraduate students. 

Those international teaching assistants (ITAs) may meet this requirement in one of the following ways:

• Presenting a TOEFL iBT speaking section score of 27 or higher.
• Receiving a score of 50 or higher on the MSU Speaking Test
• Taking AAE 451 or AAE 452 (ITA language support courses) and receiving a score of 50 or higher on the ITA Oral Interaction Test (ITAOI).

 

Those ITAs who received a waiver of the TOEFL or of other accepted tests of English proficiency for admission, must also meet the requirement of proficiency in spoken English before they are assigned to teaching work that involves oral communication with undergraduate students. To meet this requirement, those ITAs may use any of three options listed above. Individual exceptions from these requirements (on a case-by-case basis in rare circumstances) will be considered by the Graduate School in consultation with the ELC upon the request of the department and with the endorsement of the Associate Dean of the College.

 

Responsibilities

Graduate Research and Teaching Assistants are responsible for understanding the weekly workload expectations during the entire period of their appointments. This includes work assigned and the time frame within which the work must be completed, essential duties and responsibilities, work conditions and vacation opportunities, if any. 

Appointed Levels

Level I

Students with less than one year of experience as a Graduate Research and Teaching Assistant or a full support fellow. They conduct research, perform administrative tasks or other supervised duties such as reading and grading papers. 

Level II

Students with a master’s degree or equivalent and/or one year of experience as a Graduate Research and Teaching Assistant in the School of Planning, Design and Construction or in a department/unit considered relevant by the Director of the school. They conduct research, grade papers, or perform administrative tasks with moderate supervision. Advancement from Level I to Level II is usually routine. The advancement is accompanied by an increase in stipend at least to the minimum of the Level II range established by the University.

Level III

Successful completion of doctoral comprehensive exams, as defined by the School of Planning, Design and Construction in which the student is enrolled, and six semesters of experience as a Graduate Research and Teaching Assistant or a full support fellow in the School of Planning, Design and Construction or in a department/unit considered relevant by the Director of the school. The definition of equivalent experience is left to the discretion of the school Director, but it is expected that only experience in research-oriented or teaching-oriented assignments will count toward the six semesters of experience as a Graduate Research and Teaching Assistant or full support fellow. (Consistent with current practice, ¼ time and ¾ time appointments count the same as ½ time appointments, and summer semesters count the same as fall and spring semesters.) 

 

Mandatory Training on Relationship Violence and Sexual Misconduct

All graduate students must complete the on-line training about the Relationship Violence and Sexual Misconduct Policy. To access the training, login to the Office of Research Regulatory Support.  Click the Ability Login above and visit the My Requirements tile.  

Failure to complete this mandatory training may result in holds preventing you from access to your unofficial transcript.  If you need assistance, contact the Helpdesk at train@ora.msu.edu or call (517) 884-4600.

Evaluation 

Graduate Teaching Assistants (TAs) are evaluated at the end of each semester by the faculty on record for the course to which the TA has been assigned. Graduate Research Assistants (RAs) are evaluated by the faculty member who hires the graduate student. Graduate Research and Teaching Assistants are given specific assignments by their faculty supervisor for the semester for which the student is being funded. The faculty supervisor evaluates the student’s performance based on assignments given at the beginning of the semester.

Termination

Graduate Research and Teaching Assistants can be terminated if:

• The student does not maintain an overall 3.0 GPA (or higher if set by Department).
• The student is not making satisfactory progress toward his or her degree.
• Work performance is determined to be inferior.
• Funding is no longer available.

Periods of Employment

Graduate Research and Teaching Assistants Employment are as follows:

• Fall semester: August 16 - December 31
• Spring semester: January 1 - May 15
• Summer session: May 16 - August 15

 

Stipends are compensation for completion of the entire body of work associated with a TA appointment, which includes through the submission of grades when that date falls outside the employment period. 

Health Coverage

Michigan State University offers Graduate Research and Teaching Assistants health insurance coverage. ‘Student only’ coverage is automatically provided at no cost to the students. Michigan State University will provide a full twelve-month coverage for assistantship appointments of at least nine months. Students may also enroll a legal spouse, or other eligible individual (OEI), and/or children. Questions regarding enrollment, premium payment and coverage should be directed to the Aetna Student Health, (800) 859-8452. Questions or issues that cannot be resolved with Aetna Student Health may be directed to the MSU Benefits office at 1407 South Harrison Road, Room 140 Nisbet Building, (517) 353-4434 extension 170 or extension 144.

Right to Work

The payment of union dues and fees is consistent with the Michigan Rights to Work legislation. Nothing in the application of Michigan Right to Works Laws impact the daily terms and conditions of employment of TA’s. Union membership is voluntary; meeting the definition of a TA under the GEU contract is independent of union membership. One can be a TA covered by the contact and enjoy all the rights and responsibilities of the agreement but not be a member of the union. Union membership is not tied to the employment relationship and is a private matter between the employee and the union. 

Leave Time

Article 18 provides for possible medical disputes where TA’s may not be able to perform their employment responsibilities due to physical or mental conditions. In addition, adoptions and parental leave time provides for pay during the first work week of applicable leave. The language on jury duty has been refined with regard to payment for lost time and reporting back to work after jury duty. 

Additional Opportunities

Internships

The school believes that there is great advantage to our graduate students to seek additional professional opportunities. Internships for academic credit are allowed for students enrolled in one of our graduate programs.  The School of Planning, Design, and Construction does not match students with internships directly.

Career Fairs

Construction Management holds a career fair during fall semesters.  Interior Design and Landscape Architecture hold career fairs during spring semesters.  

Travel
All travel by graduate students for academic or research project purposes requires prior approval through submission of a Travel Request in the Concur travel site.  Unapproved travel is not covered by university insurance. Rules regarding travel can be found at the MSU Travel Office website. Travel Requests can be completed with assistance from Caroline Hart, hartc@msu.edu, in room 101 Human Ecology. 

 

MSU graduate students traveling internationally on University business (non-education abroad) MUST register their trip in the MSU Global Travel Registry. Registering your trip in this database is a University requirement.  Your registration in the MSU Global Travel Registry allows the University to share important health and safety information pre-departure, and to provide emergency services if necessary. 

 

Funding Opportunities

Travel and Research Funding

Reimbursement for research-related travel expenses should be discussed with the student’s major professor before any travel expenses are incurred.  

Students presenting research at a professional conference may apply for a Travel Funding fellowship through the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources.  There is a limit of ~$400-600 approved during duration of a student’s graduate program.  Travel funding requests should be submitted to the Graduate Secretary after obtaining signatures from the student’s chair.  The department will obtain the subsequent approvals from the college and The Graduate school.

Students seeking financial support to assist with their research experience, such as data collection, short courses, or attending a workshop for learning new techniques or ideas, may apply for Research Enhancement funding.  Requests should be submitted to the Graduate Secretary after obtaining signatures from the student’s chair.  The department will obtain the subsequent approvals from the college and The Graduate School

Scholarships and Fellowships

The School of Planning, Design, and Construction offers various competitive scholarships/fellowships for students, which encompass a range of different topics and requirements, including study abroad, financial need, leadership, and underrepresented students in a particular major.

Scholarships require a completed application submitted before the due date every spring semester.  Awards are good only for the following school year.  Students are expected to use the SPDC website to find the appropriate application and to watch for deadlines. 

International students are taxed on fellowship funds and other awards that are above and beyond tuition and fees.  More information on fellowships can be found at the Graduate School’s website.

Other Financial Aid Resources

Students are encouraged to be proactive in searching for funding opportunities.  Not all opportunities are presented in this document.

• The Graduate School maintains a website dedicated to funding opportunities for graduate students.  
• The Office of Financial Aid
• The Council of Graduate Students (COGS) offers short-term interest-free loans

Departmental Facilities

Mailboxes, Addresses, and E-Mail

The School of Planning, Design, and Construction maintains a Graduate Student listserv which is used to send notices to graduate students by email.  Official correspondence from MSU will be sent to your MSU email address so it is suggested that you check this email on a regular basis.

All Graduate Students are provided with an on-campus mailbox in room 111 Human Ecology.  These mailboxes are for departmental correspondence.  Personal correspondence and package delivery should be directed to the student’s home address.  It is the student’s responsibility to check their mailbox.

Research and Office Space

The School of Planning, Design, and Construction provides graduate students with a work/lounge space in Human Ecology rooms 405, 401G, and 401D.  It is the students’ responsibility to keep these rooms clean.  Drawers are available for students to store their materials in while not in use.  Drawers must be kept locked while not in use.  Students must provide their own locks.  SPDC is not responsible for any missing possessions from unlocked storage drawers. Students may choose their own drawer from any unassigned/unlocked drawers available.

Doctoral students funded on an assistantship or full fellowship may request access to HE 110.  Desks in 110 are on a first-come first-serve basis and may not be reserved.  Students are expected to keep this room clean and orderly.  Drawers or cabinets may be available for storing materials while not in use.  This space is not monitored so equipment should not be left unmonitored.

Keys to the Grad lounge/office are available from the Director’s Assistant in 101 Human Ecology.  Students will need to fill out a key request and the Director’s Assistant will notify students when their key is available to be picked up.

24/7 Access

Access to the Human Ecology building is available for students involved in studio, design, and research production courses, or employed on a graduate assistantship.  Instructors will provide a list of names of those approved to have 24/7 access due to course enrollment.  To be granted 24/7 access, students must sign a Code of Conduct form and turn it in to the Director’s Assistant in 101 Human Ecology.  You will use your MSU ID card to access the building outside normal building hours (excluding football Saturdays).

Computer Labs

Graduate students can use the computers in HE 105 or HE 106 whenever the rooms are not being used for a class or other scheduled activities.  Students are expected to clean up after themselves and not to cause any damage to the equipment.

Copies

Graduate students are not allowed to use the department copy machines.  Graduate Assistants who require use of copy machines for their research activities should obtain a copy code from their supervising professor.

University Resources

The Graduate School

The Graduate School offers many resources for graduate students in a variety of areas including academic, career, funding, and student life.  Some other Graduate School resources have been described in other sections of this document.

• MSU Graduate Student Career and Professional Development
• Graduate Student Rights and Responsibilities

Academic Resources

• Vice President for Student Affairs and Services
• Office for International Students and Scholars (OISS)
• Resource Center for Persons with Disabilities
• MSU Writing Center
• Multiple locations on campus, with the main office located in Bessey Hall.
• Offers writing consultations, workshops, and writing groups related to papers, projects, even theses and dissertations.
• Career Services Network
• MSU Libraries
• There are many branch libraries on campus, as well as a large number of electronic resources.  Students are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the large number of available resources, which include periodicals, journals, computers, copying/scanning/printing, a Passport Acceptance Facility, study rooms, and research guides
• Technology at MSU
• Offers a variety of services including technology support and the MSU Tech Store, 
• Bookstores
• Spartan Bookstore, the on-campus bookstore, located in the International Center.
• Several off-campus bookstores are located in downtown East Lansing, across from campus.

Student Life

• Counseling Center
• Olin Health Center
• Center for Service-Learning and Civic Engagement
• Recreational Sports and Fitness
• MSU Student Food Bank
• MSU Safe Place
• Council of Graduate Students (COGS)
• The State News
• Spartan Student Life Handbook
• Parents Resource Center

Parking

Any vehicle parked on campus must be registered with the Parking Division of the MSU Police office.  This policy applies to mopeds and bicycles as well as cars.