Capitol News

During a public meeting in June, the Michigan State University Board of Trustees approved a $3.69 billion operating budget for fiscal year 2025-26. This budget includes tuition and fee rates for the upcoming academic year.

"MSU’s enduring strength lies in our vibrant community of students, faculty and staff, who drive our mission to advance knowledge and transform lives," said President Kevin M. Guskiewicz, Ph.D. "This budget strategically supports academic excellence, student success and our 2030 strategic plan priorities while addressing fiscal challenges through a difficult yet thoughtful budget reduction process that ensures we continue our traditions as a proudly public institution."

The new budget includes a 4.5 percent tuition increase of $399 per semester or $798 annually for full-time undergraduate, MBA, and professional students pursuing degrees such as doctorates in medicine or law. This adjustment affects all undergraduate students regardless of residency status. Part-time students will see an increase based on the new per-credit hour rate. Graduate tuition will rise by $44.25 per credit hour.

The Michigan Legislature has previously imposed caps on tuition increases within the state budget. The Fiscal Year 2026 Operating Budget resolution accounts for potential state-imposed caps that might be lower than what was approved by the trustees.

"The Board of Trustees is committed to ensuring Michigan State University is best positioned to deliver exceptional academic programs that equip students for success now and in the future," said MSU Board of Trustees Chair Kelly Tebay. "The board thoroughly evaluated the administration’s proposed budget to be sure we achieve a balanced approach that thoughtfully addresses structural budget issues, makes critical investments across campus to support growth, and prioritizes an outstanding, affordable education for students."

MSU aims to reduce student loan burdens with an additional $6 million allocated to financial aid alongside permanent funding of $12.5 million from prior commitments.

To address financial challenges, MSU plans a 9% general fund reduction over two years across all units.

The approved budget emphasizes academic and research excellence while balancing necessary restructuring with modest investment to support MSU's mission and strategic priorities.

In leadership changes, Laura Lee McIntyre was named provost and executive vice president for academic affairs starting August 4th. J Batt was appointed vice president and director of intercollegiate athletics beginning June 16th. Matthew Daum became dean of the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources effective immediately after serving as interim leader since July 2024. Thomas Stubblefield will join as dean of the College of Arts and Letters on July 1st.

The trustees also authorized merging MSU's Residential College in the Arts and Humanities with the College of Arts and Letters to streamline administrative functions.

A new First-Gen Center is planned to support first-generation college students at MSU with renovations set for Hannah Administration Building's first floor.

Joan Rose presented her research on water preservation during the meeting, highlighting efforts led by MSU Water Alliance involving over 235 scientists focused on water-related issues since its inception in 2023.

Other approvals included land purchase in Detroit, planning for IM West facility updates related to a new Student Recreation Center, and updates to University Zoning Ordinance No. 50.

The next Board of Trustees meeting is scheduled for October 31st.