FAQ

As soon as you are admitted to the University of Michigan, you become eligible to apply to MCSP. You must complete the Michigan Learning Community (MLC) Application.

MCSP looks for students who express an interest in the program and a commitment to being an active, enthusiastic, and inclusive participant in the community. Often, competitive applicants have engaged in community service or dialogue opportunities during high school. However, previous community service or dialogue experience is not a prerequisite for the program.

Yes!  The best time to visit is after a Campus Day session.  In the afternoon, the Campus Day program includes an information session for the learning communities, which is held in West Quad residence hall. If you cannot attend Campus Day, please call the MCSP office (734-647-4860) or email mcsprogram@umich.edu and we will arrange for someone to meet with you in person or virtually.

MCSP is strong because its members are committed to each other and to the work of community service and dialogue. Plan to make MCSP a priority during your first year at UM.

MCSP students are required to take our membership course, ALA 102 (1 credit), during the fall semester. In addition, students are required to take an MCSP-linked seminar course and an MCSP-linked civic engagement course during their first year on campus. Required MCSP courses often count toward other distribution, major, or minor requirements. 

Beyond the classroom, students are invited to small group dialogues and intercultural programs and performances; to social and wellness events; and to community service opportunities. We expect students to participate in at least two of each of these types of activities each semester. There is no hour requirement for community service hours, but we find that students who commit to ongoing community service activities deepen their relationships with each other and their commitment to serving others throughout their lives.