Experience Architecture - Michigan State University

The Bachelor of Arts degree in Experience Architecture (XA) is a cutting-edge, interdisciplinary major in the College of Arts & Letters at Michigan State University. Students studying XA are forward-thinkers and are interested in gaining advanced skills in architecting or designing experiences for people in digital and physical environments. Our program gives students exposure to aspects of maneuvering and creating web sites or apps such as designing, coding, writing and digital rhetoric. Due to this well-rounded nature of the major, XA students are prepared for a number of careers or graduate programs.

Erin Campbell,
2019 XA Student of the Year

Ashton Keys,
2018 XA Student of the Year

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Two performers stand on a stage amid dramatic lighting while a large projection behind them displays text comparing artificial intelligence and human learning. The digital backdrop reads, "AI learns through mathematical pattern recognition and optimization of large datasets, while human learning is a biological process shaped by emotions and consciousness."

Arts and Humanities in Action: How MSU’s College of Arts and Letters Is Shaping Michigan’s Future

The impact of Michigan State University’s College of Arts and Letters extends far beyond campus. Across Michigan, students, faculty, and alumni are putting the arts and humanities to work through education, language access, accessibility, public engagement, and creative partnerships that preserve cultural heritage, expand opportunity, strengthen communities, and prepare the next generation of leaders. “The arts, culture, and humanities enrich our lives by helping us better understand ourselves and others, appreciate different perspectives, and find

August 4, 2026

Aditi Gonuguntala smiles while adjusting her graduation cap outdoors on Michigan State University's campus. She is wearing a green graduation gown, a white Spartan stole, honor cords, and an Experience Architecture medal.

Experience Architecture Student Finds Purpose in Inclusive Design

After exploring several majors at Michigan State University, Aditi Gonuguntala found more than a degree program in Experience Architecture (XA). She found a new way of thinking — one centered on designing experiences that are accessible, inclusive, and built around people’s needs. Now a senior majoring in Experience Architecture with a minor in Graphic Design, Aditi said discovering XA changed the course of her college experience. The program has brought together her interests in design,

July 7, 2026

Two men walk and talk across a grassy campus courtyard in front of a brick academic building. One gestures with his hands while speaking, and a large red-and-black outdoor sculpture stands in the background among trees and landscaping.

New Chapter: College Integration Strengthens Arts and Humanities at MSU

A new chapter at Michigan State University begins July 1, 2026, as the College of Arts & Letters and Residential College in the Arts and Humanities (RCAH) officially integrate, creating new opportunities for students, faculty, and the campus community while strengthening the arts and humanities at MSU. The integration brings together the broad academic programs and creative resources of the College of Arts & Letters with RCAH’s distinctive community-engaged residential education model.

June 24, 2026

iOS Design Lab Is One-of-a-Kind with Support from Apple

A one-of-a-kind collaboration with Apple Inc. is providing valuable experience to some Michigan State University students who are designing and developing apps as part of MSU’s iOS Design Lab.

Student Shines as Gymnast & Young Professional

Between interning and travelling abroad, classes, and being a Big Ten student athlete, senior Experience Architecture major Anna Gamelo has plenty to show for her time at MSU.
Gamelo, who has consistently been on the Dean’s List the last four years …

Design & the Parameters of Possibility

The latest episode of the Liberal Arts Endeavor Podcast, titled Design and the Parameters of Possibility, is out. Dean Christopher P. Long spoke with Zachary Kaiser, Assistant Professor of Graphic Design and Experience Architecture, about how design has the potential to shape the world that we live, work, teach, and even eat in.

Students Learn About Accessibility in Silicon Valley

A study away program took 14 Michigan State University students, 13 of whom were from the College of Arts & Letters, to Silicon Valley where they visited large tech companies, networked with alumni, and tested accessibility in both digital and physical spaces.