MSU's Kellogg Biological Station on the shores of Gull LakeStudents on the KBS dock on Gull Lake.

2-Credit Summer Biology Program for Freshmen

"The best summer I ever had was at KBS."

- Susan Sylvester, MSU alumnus and section chief at the Wisconsin Dept. of Natural Resources.

SpartaNature offers incoming freshmen a chance to get a jump on fall semester with a small group residential living and learning opportunity for three days during the summer before freshman year. 

SpartaNature is all about biology in all its forms

SpartaNature is designed especially for students with interests in the broad array of biological sciences. That includes, but is not limited to, biochemistry, microbiology, zoology, plant biology (botany), nutritional sciences, medical laboratory sciences, physiology, medicine, dentistry, veterinary sciences, neuroscience, molecular biology, cell biology, genetics, and genomics.

Unique Location

Located at MSU's Kellogg Biological Station, a field research facility in southwest Michigan, SpartaNature is a 2 credit course that assists science majors in transitioning from high school to college academics. 

SpartaNature is a Science Course

The core of SpartaNature is participation in three intensive science modules that provide hands-on experience in a variety of scientific disciplines. Each module is led by an MSU faculty member. You receive 2-credits (grades do apply).

Other organized events over the three days give you familiarity with campus life and services, learning expectations, and MSU traditions. These seminars provide a jump on fall semester by helping learn first-hand what to expect in classes and campus living.

The second portion of SpartaNature is completed during the fall semester on campus in East Lansing. You will complete several short essays, participate in discussions on scientific topics, and engage in follow-up activities that focus on academic and career planning success.

Personalizing a Large University Experience

While the size of MSU can be intimidating, this program brings together the resources only available at major research universities. Plus, this program limits the seminars to 12 students so you can build strong friendships with other students and faculty. This personal approach will help jump-start your success at MSU and ease your transition.

A Memorable and Fun Experience

Although SpartaNature is a course, the 3-day schedule allows time for you to socialize and enjoy the recreational options at Kellogg Biological Station and Gull Lake.

 

“SpartaNature gives students the tools for a smooth transition to college and success in their science major.” 
- Dean James Kirkpatrick, MSU College of Natural Science

 


*Adobe Acrobat Reader is required to read PDF documents.