From pre-professional advising to nationally ranked programs, Michigan State University equips students with the tools to lead across industries.
By: Antonio Cholagh
At Michigan State University, students aren’t just choosing a major — they’re preparing for careers that shape industries and impact communities. Whether their interests lie in medicine, journalism, law or business, MSU offers pathways that combine rigorous academics, professional advising and real-world experience.
Here is a look at some of the most popular degrees.
MSU is the home of the MIPA camp.
Annabella Mi’s passion for medicine started early.
“When I was younger, I watched these weird videos like ‘Top 10 Rarest Diseases,’ and that got me interested in pathology,” she said.
Over time, her focus narrowed to dermatology. In middle school, she studied medical terminology using a textbook her mom bought her and went on to win first place in a competition in Health Occupation Students of America-Future Health Professionals (HOSA-FHP).
“I feel like it was because of my passion that really led me to success,” Mi said.
At MSU, students like Mi pursue popular pre-med majors such as human biology, physiology and neuroscience. They benefit from advising services that guide them through the MCAT and medical school application process, with many continuing at MSU’s own medical colleges.
Journalism student Kenna Hulick also found her passion early.
“Since middle school, I’ve had opportunities to write,” she said. “I just love the community in the newsroom.”
Hulick said she’s looking forward to exploring MSU’s journalism program and The State News, the student-run paper she’s heard great things about.
MSU’s School of Journalism immerses students in multimedia storytelling, data reporting and broadcast production. With industry-grade equipment and outlets like Focal Point News and Impact 89FM, students graduate ready to thrive in a fast-paced media landscape.
Nathan Naman, meanwhile, credits a journalism class for steering him toward law. “I started learning about copyright law and all the political issues going on in our world,” Naman said. “That’s when I knew law was the right path.”
Naman said he’s drawn to MSU’s legal offerings and strong national reputation.
MSU supports future lawyers through pre-law majors in political science, criminal justice and philosophy, along with one-on-one advising and access to MSU College of Law’s respected graduate programs. Students can participate in moot court, legal internships and research in justice reform and constitutional law.
In the business world, Anna Brown is still exploring her options but is excited by the flexibility and career potential.
“I know this is a very versatile area of work,” Brown said. “It can help me get a job and get paid.”
She said marketing and finance both interest her, and MSU’s large campus offers plenty of room to grow.
The Broad College of Business is nationally ranked for supply chain management, accounting and finance. Students gain hands-on experience managing real investment funds, solving case competitions and networking with top employers like Ford and Deloitte.
Whether students are driven to heal, write, advocate or lead, Michigan State provides the foundation. With world-class faculty, state-of-the-art facilities and a community that supports every ambition, MSU prepares students to become leaders wherever they go.