Admissions Questions
- Do you accept GRE scores?
Yes. We will accept GRE scores; however, GMAT scores are preferred.
- What is the average GMAT or GRE score?
The average GMAT score for successful applicants is 630. The average GRE score includes line scores of 155 in both the verbal and quant categories for a total score of 310 (or higher).
Applicants with significant relevant experience (primarily for the online program) can inquire about a GMAT waiver by emailing msmr@broad.msu.edu. Applicants with a 3.5 or higher undergrad GPA from MSU (or an equivalent U.S. institution) may have the GMAT/GRE waived. Please send your resume and unofficial undergraduate transcripts to msmr@broad.msu.edu when inquiring about test waivers.
- What is the average GPA of applicants accepted into the MSMRA program?
We accept GPAs in the 3.0 range. Typically, those accepted have approximately a 3.5 GPA.
- How many students are admitted to the program per cohort?
The average class size is 25-35 students per cohort.
- What is the application deadline?
2024 Fall Full-Time On-Campus Program: May 15th, 2025.
2024 Part-Time 100% Online Program: June 1st, 2025.
2025 Full-Time 100% Online Program: December 1st, 2024.
- Where do I mail application materials?
Most documents can be emailed to msmr@broad.msu.edu.
More information on official transcripts:
Official transcripts that can be sent electronically can be emailed directly from your undergrad institution to: msmr@broad.msu.edu. Hard copy transcripts can be mailed to the following address below. Please make sure to attach electronic copies of your transcripts to your MSMRA application in addition to having hard copy documents mailed to MSU admissions:
Michigan State University
Office of Admissions
426 Auditorium Road
East Lansing, MI 48824Note: most materials can be uploaded into the Graduate Education Student Portal.
- I already have a master’s degree and/or significant or relevant work experience. Does the GMAT or GRE requirement apply to me?
Please email your transcripts and resume to msmr@broad.msu.edu to determine if this requirement would apply to your application.
- Does the program grant international students “conditional admissions”?
No. We do not offer any student conditional admission to the program.
- Do you require an undergraduate degree in marketing or business?
No. Diverse backgrounds are encouraged. Common non-business majors include advertising, psychology and social sciences.
Program Questions
- When does the spring full-time online program begin?
The spring full-time option begins in January (spring semester) each year.
- When does the fall full-time program begin?
The fall full-time option begins in late August (fall semester) each year.
- When does the part-time online program begin?
The part-time online program begins in late August (fall semester) each year.
- Is there a fully online version of the MSMRA program?
Yes, we offer 12 months full-time online or 20 months part-time online.
- Is marketing research a “STEM” field?
Starting in Fall 2023, the Master of Science in Marketing Research and Analytics’ (MSMRA) CIP Code will be changed from 52.1402 (Marketing Research) to CIP code 52.1302 (Business Statistics). The new CIP code is currently included in the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) 2020 STEM Designated Degree Program List. International MSMRA fall cohort students with a valid F-1 status will be eligible for an updated I-20 reflecting the new CIP code (52.1302). Updated I-20s will be provided to students during fall 2023 semester.
In addition to the initial 12-month Optional Practical Training (OPT), qualified F-1 students who receive a degree listed in the DHS’s STEM Designated Degree Program List are eligible to apply for a 24-month STEM extension of their post-completion optional practical training (OPT). This designation will allow students who receive an I-20 with the new CIP code (52.1302) to pursue a total of 36-months of employment authorization in the United States. The new CIP code for this program, effective Fall 2023, will be: Business Statistics (CIP 52.1302).
- How can I learn more about the experiences of prior students?
View our Spartan Insights Podcast page to hear from MSMRA students and graduates.
- How much money can I make with a career in marketing research?
Visit our Careers & Outcomes page to learn more about the prospects for marketing research professionals.
Tuition & Financial Aid
- How much does the program cost?
Please see our Tuition and Financial Aid page for the most up-to-date information regarding MSMRA program tuition and fees. The amount listed includes tuition and required software for the program. The total cost is billed in block tuition format and is paid in equal installments at the beginning of each semester.
- Can I apply for scholarships?
Yes. Please visit our Tuition and Financial Aid page for resources regarding scholarships.
Admitted Student Questions
- When will I receive my official acceptance from MSU’s Office of Admissions?
The Office of Admissions begins sending out official acceptance packets in October for the spring full-time online program, in July for the fall full-time program and the part-time online program.
- When do classes start?
See the Academic Calendar on the Registrar’s website for semester start dates.
- Do I have to register for classes?
No. We enroll you in all of your classes. We will inform you as soon as you have been enrolled so that you may access your course schedule and student billing information.
- Do I need to buy textbooks?
Yes, we recommend purchasing from the MSU Bookstore, https://www.bkstr.com/spartanbookstore/shop/textbooks-and-course-materials.
- What kind of laptop do I need?
We recommend a Windows-based computer, but a Mac is also acceptable.
- Where can I find information on housing while I study at MSU?
Owen Hall is located across Bogue Street from the Business College Complex and offers housing to MSU graduate students.
