About CSS
Our History
The Center for Student Studies (CSS) was founded in 2004 as a division of Survey Sciences Group, LLC (SSG). We are located in downtown Ann Arbor, Michigan, just blocks away from the University of Michigan—an internationally recognized hotbed of research in survey methodologies and the conduct of surveys.
CSS was created to address the outdated, low-quality research methodologies that have traditionally restricted research into students’ lives. We reinvigorate such research by applying evidence-based methodologies and cutting-edge innovations directly to the study of student issues. We are actively contributing to the advancement of this field, exploring new ways to better access this population.
CSS evolved during the implementation of three key research projects dating back to 1999: the University of Michigan Student Life Survey, the National Study of Living-Learning Programs, and a set of surveys conducted at a Southeast Michigan elementary and secondary school district. Since then, we have added to our list of accomplishments by designing and implementing multi-focal collegiate studies such as the Healthy Minds Study and the Multi-institutional Study of Leadership.
Our Mission
As an industry leader, CSS is dedicated to serving the population we study. We are committed to:
- Build upon the knowledge that will ultimately improve quality of life for students of all ages.
- Refine survey research on topics relevant to student populations.
- Support and encourage an open sharing of knowledge about students through a traditional academic spirit.
