Michigan State University affords all the advantages of a large research institute, including a diverse faculty and student body, numerous core facilities, and excellent library services. The Wharton Center for Performing Arts offers a wide variety of musical and theatrical events. There are many opportunities for intramural sports and several exercise facilities and gymnasiums.
Campus is spacious, and located in East Lansing, adjacent to the state capital in Lansing.
The metropolitan area has a population of approximately 250,000. In addition to the myriad of cultural and recreational activities provided by the University for its 42,000 students, the immediate surrounding area provides opportunities for camping, boating, fishing, skiing and swimming as well as for concerts, theater, and other cultural events. Detroit is 85 miles to the east, and Chicago is 240 miles to the west. The proximity of the Great Lakes makes Michigan a favorite vacation spot for much of the Midwest. Students come from both the US and abroad, and from a wide variety of undergraduate backgrounds.