Lyman Briggs College Frequently Asked Questions
How do you apply to LBC?
On your MSU application for admissions, write in "Lyman Briggs College" as your Major Preference (Question # 15). Please include the four-digit code for Lyman Briggs College (3470), as well. We can assist you in selecting a program of study once you have been admitted into the Lyman Briggs College. If you have been admitted to MSU in another program and wish to change your major preference to Lyman Briggs College, you may call the Office of Admissions (517-355-8332) to request that change or contact Anne Schrock to request assistance. Be sure to have your Personal Identification Number (PID) ready. Please apply early. In our efforts to maintain a small College environment, enrollment is limited and space is assigned on a first-reply basis.
How do Lyman Briggs Students fit into MSU?
Lyman Briggs College (LBC) students are members of the greater Michigan State University community and benefit from taking part in a smaller, living/learning environment devoted to the study of natural sciences and their impact on society. During their first two years of coursework, LBC students take many of their classes within Holmes Hall with fellow Holmes Hall residents. Most of their upper division courses are offered through the twelve College of Natural Science Departments.
What types of Academics Assistance are available?
Lyman Briggs faculty, staff, learning assistants, and academic advisors have their offices in Holmes Hall, where they are readily accessible to you for guidance about campus resources. Since most of your LBC classmates will live in Holmes Hall, it will be easy for you to form study groups. Additionally, many of our undergraduate learning assistants live in Holmes Hall and are available to work with you on an individual basis. The advice and assistance of Briggs upperclassmen, who have taken the same courses, can also be a very valuable resource. Once you have chosen an area of study, you will be assigned to an experienced faculty advisor in the same area as your major. Furthermore, we have professional academic advisors on staff to help you with the Lyman Briggs core curriculum, pre-professional study, and general questions.
Once you have chosen an area of study, you will be assigned to an experienced faculty advisor in the same area as your major. In addition, we have professional academic advisers on staff to help you with the LBC core program, pre-professional study, and general questions.
Does it cost more to be in the Lyman Briggs College?
No. Our costs are the same as other undergraduate programs at MSU. Furthermore, students are encouraged to participate in a semester abroad or at the Kellogg Biological Station at regular tuition rates!
What is it like to live in Holmes Hall?
Holmes Hall houses the Lyman Briggs program. It boasts suite-style living with two rooms adjoined by a shared private bathroom, state-of-the-art modular furniture, built-in Ethernet computer access, and an award-winning dining facility. Full-time professional staff manage the facilities and social aspects of the hall. Highly-trained student mentors live on every floor to support students. To learn more about Holmes Hall, visit the website at: http://www.hfs.msu.edu/uh/campus/halls/zones/east.html
Is LBC an Honors Program?
No. We are a residential college within Michigan State University. However, many Lyman Briggs students are also members of The Honors College. Additionally, we offer Honors courses, sections, and options across our curriculum.
Who was Lyman Briggs?
Lyman Briggs College is named after this distinguished scientist, administrator, and writer. Dr. Briggs entered Michigan Agricultural College (now Michigan State University) by examination in 1889 at the age of fifteen. Dr. Briggs was appointed Director of the United States Bureau of Standards in 1933. For more info, see our biography of Lyman James Briggs.
What types of out-of-class activities are available to LBC students?
In addition to the more than 550 registered student organizations on campus, Lyman Briggs students are active in their living environment governance (through the Holmes Hall Association), serve on a variety of committees, participate in MSU student organizations (such as the Briggs Multiracial Alliance), and interact with faculty and staff outside of classes. Students also attend Lyman Briggs sponsored events such as the Welcome Week Fair, Graduation Brunch, and a variety of cultural activities.
Can you visit Lyman Briggs College?
Yes! You can come to one of our many fall recruitment days as well as arrange an independent visit through our Academic Affairs office by contacting Debie at (517) 353-6480.