Best Study Spots on Campus

Whether you’re someone who studies in between classes or stays up late into the night, everyone has a go-to study spot. Some spaces are perfect for socializing, while others are better for scribbling endless notes on a whiteboard or finding a little peace and quiet. Because everyone’s study needs are different, it’s important to know which spots will work best for you and, of course, which ones are best for the class you’re studying for.

As an elementary education major, I tend to lean toward more social study spaces, but there’s a place on campus for majors of all shapes and sizes. Whether you’re looking to work alongside friends, escape the winter blues, or squeeze in some studying between classes, Concordia has plenty of places to get your academic grind on.

The Maize

For those who like to study with a little background noise (and maybe a snack), The Maize is a great place to spend an evening with your fellow Cobbers. While it’s only open until 10 p.m., nearby vending machines can help support you through the later hours of the night.

Lucky for all Conco students, The Maize actually got a bit of a rebrand this past spring — fresh paint and new furniture have cleaned up the space nicely. In need of a study break? Check out ping-pong paddles from the Campus Information desk.

The best way to cure some late-night writer’s block? A fun little beverage to sip on while you work. The Maize is a great option for students who like to study in a more social environment without completely sacrificing productivity. 

Carl B. Ylvisaker Library

The Carl B. is a great go-to for anyone experiencing a little decision paralysis, especially during finals when study spaces can feel limited. With so many options throughout the building, you’re bound to find a spot that fits your study style.

Looking to stay active while you study? The library has walking pads for a more engaged study session. Need complete silence? Single desks tucked away in the stacks offer a little more isolation. Thankfully, the higher you go in the library, the quieter it’s supposed to be.

Third-floor study rooms are perfect for cramming for finals, especially because you can book them ahead of time through Mazevo. The mezzanine and the second-floor seating by the windows are great options for grouping up with friends. You can even find the (not-so) faculty lounge (complete with a private bathroom!) for another unique study space.

The options are practically endless. The library also hosts plenty of events throughout the year, especially during finals, to help students take a much-needed break from studying. Whether it’s Cobber Crafts in the Fishbowl or puppies on the first floor, it’s the perfect place for a brain break when you’re sending yourself into a spiral over O-Chem.

Integrated Science Center

While I don’t spend much time in the Integrated Science Center due to my lack of science credits, it’s always my destination of choice when I’m looking to rid myself of seasonal agony — big windows and an abundance of plants add freshness to campus that can be hard to find during Minnesota winters. 

Additionally, the ISC has a lot of whiteboards to copy notes onto, dozens of study rooms, and plenty of flexible seating options. While exploring the halls, you’ll find several alcoves that provide quaint spaces for more intimate study settings with two or three people. Whether you’re working through a difficult assignment with a friend or looking for a quiet place to focus, ISC has tons of spaces to explore. 

Spice up your study spot each day

MLK Lounge

The King Intercultural Center in the Wall Lounge is the perfect apex of campus to get some work done between classes and maximize your productivity. Located above the Korn Krib, it’s conveniently on your walk from Anderson Commons, making it an easy place to stop before or after lunch, or to get some solid studying in when you have an hour to spare between classes.

Because of its location in Knutson, it’s close enough to Bishop Whipple, Academy, and Grose to be the perfect break in your schedule. High top tables, booths, and even conversation pits allow you to spice up your study spot each day — or squeeze in a quick nap after lunch.

Heimarck Center

Home to the Sanford Heimarck School of Health Professions, it has plenty of natural light and lounge spaces to settle and plug in your laptop. Located across Eighth Street from East Complex, the Heimark Center is the perfect option for any Hallett-Erickson dwellers (especially health professions and STEM majors) who need a change of scenery from Grant Center.

Thanks to donors and a partnership with Sanford Health, the remodeled building opened its doors in 2023. The Heimarck Center has quickly become one of the favorite spots on campus, with ample co-working spaces, multiple levels of individual study areas, and views on views. It may be a bit of a jaunt from the center of campus, but it’s worth it.

^{Published September 2026}