Skip to Content

Search: {{$root.lsaSearchQuery.q}}, Page {{$root.page}}

About Us

The Science Learning Center (SLC) is an interdisciplinary resource center sponsored by the College of Literature, Science and the Arts (LSA) to support teaching and learning in the natural sciences at the University of Michigan. The natural science disciplines at the U of M include astronomy, biology, biophysics, chemistry, earth and environmental sciences and physics.

The SLC Main Branch is located adjacent to the atrium of the Chemistry Building on Central Campus. The SLC Main Branch is home to several areas of activity including computer labs, meeting alcoves, individual and group study space, a tutoring Help Room, and a loan desk for reserve and research materials.

The SLC Satellite Location in 2165 Undergraduate Science Building houses a study lounge, team rooms, and computers.

Welcome

Joe Salvatore, Director

Welcome to the Science Learning Center (SLC) at the University of Michigan!

I am thrilled to celebrate with you as we mark a milestone—our 35th anniversary! For more than three decades, the SLC has been dedicated to fostering academic excellence, building community, and inspiring a passion for the sciences among our students.

The past year has been nothing short of remarkable. We organized 400 study groups that provided crucial support to 4,400 students across 18 introductory science courses. Additionally, our dedicated tutors conducted an impressive 5,400 tutoring sessions throughout the 2023-24 academic year. The SLC continues to be a bustling hub of activity and learning, as evidenced by over 125,000 visits to our main and satellite locations last year.

Our success would not be possible without our incredible team. In 2023-24, we proudly employed 375 student staff members, whose dedication and enthusiasm are the heartbeat of our center. Their contributions help us create an environment where every student can thrive and achieve their academic goals.

As we look ahead, we remain committed to supporting your journey in the sciences. Whether you are seeking a collaborative study group, personalized tutoring sessions, or simply a welcoming space to study, the SLC is here for you.

Thank you for being a part of our community. Here’s to another 35 years of learning, growth, and scientific discovery!

Warm regards,

Joe Salvatore

SLC Director

Mission Statement

The Science Learning Center (SLC) creates inclusive opportunities and spaces for students to collaborate, learn, and thrive in the natural sciences.

Core Values

  • Diversity: We welcome, acknowledge, and appreciate our similarities and differences.
  • Inclusion: We actively work to increase access to learning opportunities and build communities that welcome differing perspectives where each person feels a sense of belonging and purpose.
  • Innovation: We promote creativity and curiosity to tackle challenges and inspire new ideas.
  • Integrity: We act with honesty in alignment with our collective values.  We take responsibility and embrace accountability for our actions.
  • Learning: We create opportunities for students to learn, promoting metacognition, collaboration, research-based learning strategies, and a growth mindset.
  • Student-Centeredness: We focus our efforts on helping students thrive and supporting those who need our help most.
  • Well-Being: We recognize that taking care of ourselves and one another is a shared responsibility, and that everyone needs support to thrive.