In the 2025 Quacquarelli Symonds Sustainability Rankings, Michigan State University is ranked No. 28 in the world — an increase from No. 41 in 2024 — among 1,751 participating schools and No. 5 in the nation. Both rankings place MSU in the top 2%.
The QS Sustainability Rankings measure how well universities are addressing the world’s greatest environmental, social and governance issues. This is 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,” said 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.”
Globally, MSU also ranks in the top 25 in four of QS’ key indicators of performance.
- No. 2 in knowledge exchange
- No. 16 in equality
- No. 21 in social impact
- No. 21 in environmental education
MSU’s 5,200-acre campus is the ideal living laboratory for students interested in building a greener future. With more than 800 courses incorporating sustainability into the curriculum or through experiential learning — plus three undergraduate degrees, 20 minors, 21 master’s degree programs and 16 doctoral programs rooted in sustainability — the university is preparing tomorrow’s leaders to tackle emerging sustainability challenges.
The Residential Initiative on the Study of the Environment, or RISE, is a living-learning program for first- and second-year students with an interest in sustainability and environmental stewardship. Open to any major, the students live in Bailey Hall and, on top of their classes, participate in co-curricular activities.
Similarly, the Student Organic Farm provides an immersive, hands-on farming experience for undergraduate crew members of any major. In addition, the farm offers courses in organic farming, internships, interdisciplinary educational activities and hands-on learning opportunities through 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 remains steadfast in its commitment to achieving a just and sustainable future, with stewardship and sustainability a key focus of the MSU 2030 Strategic Plan.
Learn more about sustainability efforts at MSU.