Best Colleges in Michigan
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Editor & Writer
Writer
Editor & Writer
From Detroit to the Upper Peninsula, Michigan is a great place for college. Whether you want to become a healthcare worker, study the arts and sciences, or become a teacher, Michigan's many colleges can help you reach your goals.
But what are the best colleges in Michigan? And why do so many students choose the Great Lakes State for college? We've got the rankings and resources to help you learn more about colleges and universities in Michigan.
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10 Best Colleges in Michigan
Ready to learn more about the top-ranking colleges and universities in Michigan? Check out these schools to discover the Michigan college that's the best match for you.
Methodology
How did we pick the best colleges in Michigan? We looked at several factors, including academic excellence, cost, financial aid opportunities, and institutional reputation.
Our ranking also considers the overall student experience, including campus life, retention rates, and student support services. Finally, we included a variety of institution types and sizes so you can find a top-ranked school that fits your needs.
These rankings were compiled by our
BestColleges Ranking Team
and include
BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
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University of Michigan-Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, MI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
UMich ranks at the top of our list of the best colleges in Michigan. The state's flagship public university, UMich offers high-quality degrees at an affordable price. And two-thirds of first-year students receive financial aid to cover costs.
With over 280 degree programs across 14 schools and colleges, you'll have plenty of options when it comes time to choose your major. Thanks to its large student body of 50,000 students from around the world, the Ann Arbor campus offers an active social scene. The state's oldest and largest university is a great pick for colleges in Michigan.
ROI Value Score: High
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Michigan State University
East Lansing, MI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
More than 50,000 students attend Michigan State. The public university has a massive 5,200-acre campus just three miles from the state capital. You'll be able to choose from over 400 academic programs — or study abroad at one of its over 300 location options.
Michigan State is also known for its Big Ten sports, historic architecture, and picturesque botanical gardens. Founded in 1855 as a land-grant university, Michigan State now aims to empower its community with educational opportunities.
ROI Value Score: High
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Michigan Technological University
Houghton, MI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Want to turn plastic waste into protein powder? Or test a nanosatellite? Michigan Tech students participate in cutting-edge research focused on sustainability and innovation.
A public institution in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, Michigan Tech sits within miles of Lake Superior. You'll get 200+ inches of snow in the winter. If you're not into outdoor sports, visit the historic town of Houghton for music festivals and coffee shops. At Michigan Tech, you can get a high-tech education with a college-town feel.
ROI Value Score: High
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Wayne State University
Detroit, MI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The largest university in Detroit, Wayne State dates back to 1868, when it began as a medical college. Today, nearly 40% of Michigan's practicing physicians graduated from Wayne State's School of Medicine.
In addition to its health programs, the public university offers many other majors from its 200-acre urban campus. You'll choose from over 350 programs, many of which incorporate experiential learning. When you're not on campus, you can discover everything Detroit has to offer.
ROI Value Score: Medium
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
University of Detroit Mercy
Detroit, MI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Michigan's largest Catholic university dates back to 1877. Today, over 5,000 students attend the private institution. At Detroit Mercy, you'll learn through experiential opportunities like co-ops. You can also choose one of 30 accelerated programs that offer a bachelor's and master's degree on a fast track.
Detroit Mercy reports that over 98% of students receive some form of financial aid. The private university awarded more than $50 million in students scholarships and grants last year.
ROI Value Score: Medium
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Grand Valley State University
Allendale, MI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
From its 1,300-acre campus in Allendale, GVSU overlooks the scenic Grand River. Ravines cut through the tree-filled campus, which welcomes more than 18,000 undergrads. The student body represents 83 countries around the world.
GVSU offers 100 undergraduate majors and 45 graduate degrees. The public university reports that 96% of students receive some form of financial aid, making the cost of college more affordable.
ROI Value Score: Medium
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Oakland University
Rochester Hills, MI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
A mid-sized public university in the greater Detroit area, OU enrolls around 13,000 undergrads. It's also got a Division I athletics program, experiential learning opportunities, and flexible class schedules. Plus, you'll have more than 125 majors to choose from.
Over a third of OU first-year students are first-generation college students. And OU makes it easy to understand the cost of college by not charging any fees on top of tuition.
ROI Value Score: Medium
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Central Michigan University
Mount Pleasant, MI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
CMU is a public research university located in Mount Pleasant. More than 24,000 students enroll in more than 200 programs at the university. You can major in business, education, healthcare, social science, STEM, or another field.
You can join 300 student organizations, play intramural sports, or volunteer at CMU. Or, if you want the flexibility of distance learning, you can enroll through CMU Online, which offers dozens of online degrees.
ROI Value Score: Medium
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Andrews University
Berrien Springs, MI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Want a rural college experience? Then head to the village of Berrien Springs, Michigan. That's where Andrews University grants degrees as a private Adventist college. You'll join nearly 4,000 students on a campus that's 12 miles from Lake Michigan and 25 miles from South Bend, Indiana.
The university boasts a sprawling 2,400-acre campus that's designated as an arboretum. You can choose from over 90 undergraduate programs or more than 65 graduate programs at Andrews.
ROI Value Score: Medium
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Calvin University
Grand Rapids, MI - 4 years
- Campus
From its campus in Grand Rapids, Calvin University enrolls nearly 4,000 students. This private Christian college offers more than 100 majors and programs on its 400-acre campus.
Calvin's goal is to help each student grow, collaborate, and build. And the university also offers a strong financial aid package for students with a high GPA. If you have a 3.8 GPA or higher, the school promises at least $21,000 per year in aid for up to four years.
ROI Value Score: Medium
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
List of All Colleges in Michigan
We've created a complete list of all four-year nonprofit universities in Michigan. You can use the table below to compare data on student population, average net cost, acceptance rate, and number of applicants.
The following school data comes from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). Note that schools that do not admit full-time first-time degree-seeking students or had an undergraduate student enrollment of fewer than 500 were not considered for this list.
School | Total Student Enrollment | Avg. Annual Net Price | Acceptance Rate | Number of Applicants |
---|---|---|---|---|
Adrian College | 1,871 | $24,870 | 69% | 3,329 |
Albion College | 1,523 | $19,351 | 67% | 6,827 |
Alma College | 1,353 | $23,995 | 65% | 3,372 |
Andrews University | 2,927 | $24,194 | 91% | 1,226 |
Aquinas College | 1,362 | $18,605 | 91% | 2,116 |
Baker College | 4,969 | $13,719 | 37% | 2,082 |
Calvin University | 3,257 | $25,775 | 74% | 4,079 |
Central Michigan University | 15,424 | $15,605 | 79% | 19,888 |
Cleary University | 751 | $27,209 | 68% | 810 |
College for Creative Studies | 1,620 | $34,906 | 49% | 1,622 |
Concordia University Ann Arbor | 1,135 | $26,353 | 70% | 1,962 |
Cornerstone University | 1,930 | $20,935 | 82% | 1,926 |
Davenport University | 5,384 | $18,350 | 99% | 3,379 |
Eastern Michigan University | 15,340 | $15,826 | 83% | 19,919 |
Ferris State University | 10,361 | $13,978 | 88% | 12,228 |
Grace Christian University | 1,104 | $12,988 | 100% | 293 |
Grand Valley State University | 22,406 | $17,105 | 90% | 17,123 |
Hillsdale College | 1,602 | $24,196 | 21% | 3,017 |
Hope College | 3,132 | $25,800 | 80% | 5,152 |
Kalamazoo College | 1,241 | $26,981 | 79% | 3,702 |
Kettering University | 1,858 | $34,486 | 81% | 1,823 |
Lake Superior State University | 1,812 | $14,336 | 77% | 2,408 |
Lawrence Technological University | 2,955 | $32,641 | 82% | 2,537 |
Madonna University | 2,444 | $18,344 | 65% | 1,988 |
Michigan State University | 49,659 | $22,803 | 88% | 53,341 |
Michigan Technological University | 7,008 | $18,235 | 94% | 7,893 |
Northern Michigan University | 7,214 | $17,346 | 71% | 6,217 |
Northwood University | 2,422 | $24,616 | 80% | 1,368 |
Oakland University | 17,170 | $15,161 | 90% | 11,110 |
Olivet College | 885 | $21,394 | 85% | 1,439 |
Rochester University | 1,114 | $18,665 | 71% | 929 |
Saginaw Valley State University | 7,523 | $12,432 | 76% | 9,330 |
Siena Heights University | 1,966 | $20,074 | 65% | 1,545 |
Spring Arbor University | 2,685 | $22,375 | 47% | 2,312 |
University of Detroit Mercy | 5,227 | $18,197 | 91% | 5,163 |
University of Michigan | 50,278 | $19,318 | 18% | 84,289 |
University of Michigan Dearborn | 8,331 | $12,444 | 54% | 12,026 |
University of Michigan Flint | 6,418 | $10,840 | 66% | 6,140 |
Wayne State University | 24,919 | $15,347 | 75% | 14,002 |
Western Michigan University | 18,266 | $20,030 | 85% | 20,501 |
What Is the Cost of College in Michigan?
Attending college in Michigan doesn't have to break the bank. Michigan's top-ranked public universities are an affordable choice for state residents.
And if you're looking for an even more affordable option, consider attending a Michigan community college before transferring to a four-year institution. With that route, you can save around $10,000 per year in tuition and fees.
Looking for an affordable but flexible option? Consider online colleges in Michigan. And if you're attending a private college, make sure to ask about institutional financial aid.
Institution Type | Average Tuition & Required Fees |
---|---|
Public 4-Year (in-state) | $13,716 |
Public 4-Year (out-of-state) | $39,427 |
Private 4-Year | $31,055 |
Public 2-Year (in-state) | $3,756 |
Public 2-Year (out-of-state) | $7,707 |
Why Study in Michigan? 5 Benefits
More than 345,000 college students enroll in Michigan's colleges and universities. Why do they study in Michigan? Here are a few of the many reasons.
1. Location
The Great Lakes State is the perfect spot if you're into the outdoors. With scenic coastlines, the snowy Upper Peninsula, and miles of woods, Michigan's nature has a lot to offer. Plus, the state has many picturesque college towns. You're also not far from the sites and major cities of nearby states.
2. Large Selection of Colleges and Universities
There's a lot of great colleges and universities in Michigan. Our list includes 40 four-year institutions. That means you've got a lot to choose from. Plus, the state has two outstanding public colleges in U-M and MSU. Choose your side in the rivalry between the Wolverines and Spartans by enrolling at one of these top-ranked schools.
3. Lower Cost of Living
Did you know that Michigan is the fourth most affordable state in the country? It's also the cheapest state in the Midwest. That means your dollar goes further in Michigan. And with affordable tuition rates for in-state students, the state's public universities can also help you save money.
4. High Student Population
Michigan is home to 345,000 college students. That means you'll run into a lot of fellow students across the state. And if you're at U-M, you'll get to take advantage of one of the best college towns in America. In Ann Arbor, 1 in 2 residents is a college student.
5. Top-Ranked Athletic Programs
Michigan colleges are home to some of the best sports programs in the country. Whether you're a fan of football, basketball, or another sport, you can find a college in Michigan that stands out. And most colleges also offer intramural athletic programs if you're not quite varsity level.
Frequently Asked Questions About Colleges in Michigan
How many colleges are in Michigan?
Michigan is home to 40 four-year nonprofit colleges and universities. These include institutions with international reputations, like the University of Michigan.
In addition to the state's many public and private four-year institutions, Michigan also has 31 public community colleges. You can save around $10,000 per year in tuition and fees by attending a community college before transferring to a four-year public college.
Is the University of Michigan a good school?
Yes, the University of Michigan is considered one of the top-ranked public universities in the country. U-M is the flagship public institution in the state. It enrolls over 50,000 students and receives more than 84,000 applications from hopeful students every year.
The public institution also reports the most selective admissions of any school in the state, accepting just 18% of applicants in fall 2022, according to NCES.
Is Michigan State a good school?
Yes, Michigan State is a strong public university. It enrolls nearly 50,000 students and receives more than 53,000 applications annually.
Michigan State is less selective in its admissions process than the University of Michigan. While U-M admitted just 18% of applicants in fall 2022, Michigan State admitted 88%. That means applicants have a good chance of getting into the school.