Capitol News

Michigan State University (MSU) has been ranked 28th globally in the 2025 Quacquarelli Symonds Sustainability Rankings, improving from its previous position of 41st in 2024. Among U.S. institutions, MSU is ranked fifth, placing it within the top two percent of participating schools worldwide.

The QS Sustainability Rankings evaluate universities on their efforts to address major environmental, social, and governance issues. This marks the third annual edition of these rankings.

"Michigan State University is a great and passionately public global research university doing its part to foster sustainable practices within our own community and around the world," stated President Kevin M. Guskiewicz, Ph.D. "Through education, research and outreach, Spartans are working to protect our environment and quality of life for generations to come."

MSU also ranks highly in four key performance indicators by QS: second in knowledge exchange, sixteenth in equality, twenty-first in social impact, and twenty-first in environmental education.

The university's campus serves as a practical learning environment for students interested in sustainability. It offers over 800 courses related to sustainability through various degrees and programs aimed at preparing future leaders for sustainability challenges.

The Residential Initiative on the Study of the Environment (RISE) provides a living-learning experience focused on sustainability for first- and second-year students. Students live in Bailey Hall while engaging in co-curricular activities alongside their studies.

Additionally, the Student Organic Farm offers hands-on farming experiences for undergraduates from any major. The farm includes courses on organic farming, internships, interdisciplinary educational activities, and practical learning opportunities through initiatives like the Organic Farmer Training Program and Keep Growing Detroit.

"We are honored to receive this distinction and leverage the momentum to continually explore innovative ways to remain competitive and embed sustainability in everything we do," said MSU Sustainability Manager Laura Young. "Sustainability is the responsibility of all Spartans, and we must encourage current and future generations to uphold sustainable efforts."

MSU continues its dedication towards achieving a just and sustainable future as outlined in its MSU 2030 Strategic Plan.