View additional information in the ASCEND Program Handbook

ASCEND at MSU

Students typically come from the surrounding 4-county area: Ingham, Clinton, Shiawassee, and Eaton counties.

ASCEND 1 Fall 2026 (Online) time (tentative): Tues 4-6:30p

2026 virtual study lab time (tentative): TBD

*Classes are subject to enrollment minimums. If minimum enrollment is not met, the smaller course will merge with the larger offering.

Three study labs per semester are required for all year 1 students. Labs are optional for year 2 students, unless otherwise dictated. The purpose of study labs is for students to work on assignments, seek additional assistance on concepts learned in class, or to work cooperatively with other students.

ASCEND - Virtual (Online Technology Requirements)

The ASCEND Online program is a 100% online LIVE weekly English class (and tutoring labs) that will run for two-years virtually.

Classes will meet weekly for 2.5 hours for a live online synchronous section taught by an MSU ASCEND instructor. Online tutoring labs will be available weekly for students to ask questions about their English homework and practice for upcoming exams.

ASCEND virtual students are not permitted to change to other sections or locations at any time during the 2-year period of ASCEND. For example, if you begin online, you may not transfer to the East Lansing or the Southeast Michigan section/location.