Counseling and Psychiatric Services (CAPS)

Departments of Kinesiology and Recreational Sports and Fitness Services

In a recent study from the MSU Departments of Kinesiology and Recreational Sports and Fitness Services including approximately 1,800 freshmen students, participants of intramural sports were compared to non-participant peers for differences in academic success indicators. Participants and non-participants were matched based on demographic indicators, intramural sports usage was collected from the IM Leagues database, and academic data were obtained from the University Registrar. Overall, participants of intramural sports fared better than their non-participant peers across all indicators of academic success, including earning higher GPAs, dropping/failing fewer credits, and being 2.3 times more likely to be retained after their first year (i.e., come back to MSU for their second year).

Residence Education and Housing Services

Ray Gasser is the director of Residence Education and Housing Services at Michigan State University. Previously, he was director of University Housing at the University of Idaho. He has worked in housing since 1997 at six different institutions. He earned his doctorate in higher education administration from the University of Arizona.

Health Education Services

Dennis Martell is an expert on student health issues. He counsels students on some of the most important issues of college life: stress, sex and pregnancy prevention, alcohol and tobacco use, mental health and nutrition.

Counseling and Psychiatric Services (CAPS)

MSU Counseling & Psychiatric Services (CAPS) is the new place on campus for students seeking help for a wide range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, stress management, homesickness, adjustment or acculturation, relationships, gender identity and sexual orientation (LBGTQ) concerns, substance abuse, trauma, eating or body image concerns, and other personal mental health concerns. CAPS combines the services of the former MSU Counseling Center and former Olin Psychiatry Clinic to provide improved access for students. Additional services will be available in the Neighborhood Engagement Centers, and the MSU Union building.

Fraternity and Sorority Life

Since 1872, Michigan State’s Greek community has been a thriving part of campus life. Joining a fraternity or sorority brings life long relationships, opportunities for personal and career growth, and a national network of alumni across the globe.