Michigan State University offers graduate and doctoral psychology programs through its Department of Counseling, Educational Psychology and Special Education. Program options include school psychology, educational psychology, rehabilitation counseling, and measurement methods, available in on-campus, online, and hybrid formats. MSU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is located in East Lansing, Michigan.
Michigan State University is a public research university in East Lansing and one of the largest campuses in the Midwest, enrolling more than 50,000 students. Founded in 1855, MSU is a member of the Big Ten Conference and holds accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission.
Michigan State University Accreditation Details
The Higher Learning Commission (HLC) accredits Michigan State University at the institutional level, covering both on-campus and online programs. MSU maintains institutional accreditation through the Higher Learning Commission’s continuous accreditation and periodic reaffirmation process.
Several programs hold additional specialty accreditation, including programs in psychology, law, medicine, and business. MSU’s education programs are also approved by the Michigan Department of Education.
Michigan State University Application Requirements
MSU uses different application processes for undergraduate and graduate students. Undergraduate applicants apply online and should follow published application deadlines and priority dates. Applicants submit an online form along with high school or college transcripts showing their GPA and graduation date.
Graduate admissions are more selective. Each program has a limited number of seats, and the same requirements apply whether students plan to study on campus or online. Graduate applicants submit an online application with supporting documentation. GRE requirements vary by program, and many graduate programs no longer require GRE scores. Some programs also require letters of recommendation and a faculty interview before MSU extends an offer of admission.
Tuition and Financial Aid
Graduate students at Michigan State University pay tuition at two rates, depending on Michigan residency. Current graduate tuition is approximately $21,800 per year for Michigan residents and $41,800 per year for nonresidents, though rates vary by program and credit load. Budget for books and supplies varies by program, with MSU estimating approximately $1,380 per year as a general guideline. Online graduate students pay the same tuition rates as on-campus students but typically spend less on room, board, and personal expenses.
Graduate students can apply for federal financial aid by submitting the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and listing MSU’s school code. Options include unsubsidized federal loans, private or alternative loan programs, and scholarships available from the university and external sources.
Psychology Programs at Michigan State University
Psychology-related graduate and doctoral programs at MSU sit within the Department of Counseling, Educational Psychology, and Special Education. Depending on the program, students may have on-campus, online, or hybrid study options, and most include a fieldwork or internship requirement. Programs that require practica or internships provide placement support, although requirements vary by program.
School Psychology
MSU’s school psychology program is one option among accredited school psychology programs in the Midwest. The program prepares students to earn state licensure and work with students across grade levels, combining coursework with supervised clinical fieldwork designed to meet Michigan licensure requirements. Applicants seeking licensure in other states should verify their state’s requirements.
Educational Psychology
The educational psychology program examines how people learn and how curriculum can be designed more effectively. Students can also pursue a concentration in educational technology, which combines learning science with digital instructional design. The program is available at the graduate and doctoral levels, with online study options depending on the track.
Rehabilitation Counseling
MSU’s rehabilitation counseling program trains students to work with individuals managing disabilities and chronic health conditions. The program includes a supervised fieldwork or internship component, and graduates typically go on to work in rehabilitation settings, community agencies, or healthcare organizations.
Measurement and Quantitative Methods
This graduate program covers psychometrics, research design, and statistical methods used in quantitative psychology and educational research. It’s a good fit for students interested in assessment development, program evaluation, or academic research careers.
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