Best Colleges in Michigan 2026

Badge for BEST IN MICHIGAN COLLEGES & UNIVERSITIES
By Dr. James Barham
Reviewed By Chloe Dembski
Updated:

Here are the best colleges and universities in Michigan. Our list will help you find the right kind of school for you.

Key Takeaways

  • Michigan’s top colleges have extensive alumni networks and partnerships with global companies, providing students with access to mentorship, internships, and job opportunities in industries such as automotive, technology, and healthcare.
  • Many of Michigan’s best colleges emphasize a liberal arts education, allowing students to explore a wide range of subjects and engage in interdisciplinary learning that prepares them for dynamic careers in various fields.
  • The best institutions in Michigan offer top-tier research facilities and programs in fields such as engineering, healthcare, and environmental science, giving students the chance to work alongside leading experts and participate in cutting-edge research projects.

10 Best Colleges in Michigan in 2026

  1. University of Michigan
  2. Michigan State University
  3. Wayne State University
  4. Western Michigan University
  5. Michigan Technological University
    +2
  6. Eastern Michigan University
    –1
  7. Oakland University
    –1
  8. Andrews University
  9. University of Detroit Mercy
    +1
  10. Hope College
    +2

Related: Differences between research universities and teaching colleges

We’ve identified 42 colleges and universities in Michigan that meet our criteria. Below is our ranked selection of the top 30 institutions that award bachelor’s degrees, drawn from fully accredited public and private colleges and universities in Michigan and intended to help applicants, families, and advisors compare options for 2026.

This list emphasizes institution-level academic influence and peer recognition alongside practical factors students often use to choose a school—program strength, curricular breadth, student outcomes, and institutional fit—so you can quickly narrow choices and dig deeper into the campuses that match your academic and career goals.

Best Colleges in Michigan

  1. #1

    University of Michigan

    Ann Arbor , MI
    #2 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2026 #2 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2026 #2 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2026 #2 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $18K

    Acceptance

    16%

    Graduation

    93%

    Student body

    54K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1445/32

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Michigan

    Cost of Degree: $18,309
    Expenses: $17,554
    Starting Salary: $92,832
    Cost Recoup Time: 9 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of Michigan known for?

    University of Michigan’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  2. #2

    Michigan State University

    East Lansing , MI
    #21 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2026 #22 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2026 #23 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2026 #2 Best Research Universities in Michigan 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $17K

    Acceptance

    85%

    Graduation

    80%

    Student body

    55K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1270/28

    Career Outlook for degree at Michigan State University

    Cost of Degree: $17,270
    Expenses: $16,680
    Starting Salary: $74,168
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Michigan State University known for?

    Michigan State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  3. #3

    Wayne State University

    Detroit , MI
    #2 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2026 #3 Best Research Universities in Michigan 2026 #3 Best Grad Schools in Michigan 2026 #3 Most Affordable Colleges in Michigan 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $16K

    Acceptance

    81%

    Graduation

    60%

    Student body

    28K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1165/26

    Career Outlook for degree at Wayne State University

    Cost of Degree: $15,464
    Expenses: $17,488
    Starting Salary: $59,525
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Wayne State University known for?

    Wayne State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Wayne State University’s Online Degrees

    BS in Mortuary Science
    • Required Credits: 56
    • Completion Time: 1-2 years
    • Format: Fully online
    BA in Social Work
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    Compare school
  4. #4

    Western Michigan University

    Kalamazoo , MI
    #4 Best Research Universities in Michigan 2026 #4 Best Grad Schools in Michigan 2026 #4 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2026 #4 Most Affordable Colleges in Michigan 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $16K

    Acceptance

    85%

    Graduation

    59%

    Student body

    18K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1105/23

    Career Outlook for degree at Western Michigan University

    Cost of Degree: $15,298
    Expenses: $15,472
    Starting Salary: $57,828
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Western Michigan University known for?

    Western Michigan University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Western Michigan University’s Online Degrees

    BS in Family Studies, Child And Family Development
    • Required Credits: 122
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Healthcare Services & Sciences
    Degree Concentrations
    • Clinical Practice in Health
    • Audiology Preparation
    • Blindness and Low Vision Studies Preparation
    • Occupational Therapy Preparation
    • Physician Assistant Preparation
    • Required Credits: 62
    • Completion Time: 24 months
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Nursing
    • Required Credits: 60
    • Format: Fully online
    BS/BA in University Studies
    • Required Credits: 56 or more
    • Format: Fully online
    BA in Comparative Religion
    Degree Concentrations
    • World Religions
    • Society
    • and Culture
    • Religion
    • Spirituality
    • and Health
    • Religion in America
    • Required Credits: 127
    • Format: Fully online
    Compare school
  6. #5

    Michigan Technological University

    Houghton , MI
    #5 Best Research Universities in Michigan 2026 #5 Best Grad Schools in Michigan 2026 #5 Most Affordable Colleges in Michigan 2026 #5 Best Public Colleges in Michigan 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $20K

    Acceptance

    92%

    Graduation

    70%

    Student body

    8K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1240/28

    Career Outlook for degree at Michigan Technological University

    Cost of Degree: $19,747
    Expenses: $16,366
    Starting Salary: $84,681
    Cost Recoup Time: 9 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Michigan Technological University known for?

    Michigan Technological University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  7. #6

    Eastern Michigan University

    Ypsilanti , MI
    #6 Best Research Universities in Michigan 2026 #6 Best Grad Schools in Michigan 2026 #6 Most Affordable Colleges in Michigan 2026 #6 Best Public Colleges in Michigan 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $17K

    Acceptance

    80%

    Graduation

    46%

    Student body

    16K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1045/22

    Career Outlook for degree at Eastern Michigan University

    Cost of Degree: $16,260
    Expenses: $16,344
    Starting Salary: $55,390
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Eastern Michigan University known for?

    Eastern Michigan University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Eastern Michigan University’s Online Degrees

    BS in Information. Assurance And Cyber Defense
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Format: Fully online
    BSN in Nursing: RN to BSN
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Format: Fully online
    Compare school
  8. #7

    Oakland University

    Rochester Hills , MI
    #7 Best Research Universities in Michigan 2026 #7 Best Grad Schools in Michigan 2026 #7 Most Affordable Colleges in Michigan 2026 #7 Best Public Colleges in Michigan 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $16K

    Acceptance

    88%

    Graduation

    58%

    Student body

    18K

    Career Outlook for degree at Oakland University

    Cost of Degree: $16,429
    Expenses: $14,609
    Starting Salary: $63,565
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Oakland University known for?

    Oakland University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Oakland University’s Online Degrees

    BSN in Nursing Rn To Bsn
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: 1 year
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Environmental Health And Safety
    • Required Credits: 125
    • Format: Fully online
    Compare school
  9. #8

    Andrews University

    Berrien Springs , MI
    #12 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Doctoral Degrees 2026 #1 Best Private Colleges in Michigan 2026 #1 Best Small Colleges in Michigan 2026 #1 Best Christian Colleges in Michigan 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $36K

    Acceptance

    82%

    Graduation

    71%

    Student body

    4K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1140/23

    Career Outlook for degree at Andrews University

    Cost of Degree: $33,710
    Expenses: $12,250
    Starting Salary: $59,582
    Cost Recoup Time: 14 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Andrews University known for?

    Andrews University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Andrews University’s Online Degrees

    BS in Business Administration
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Format: Fully online
    BA in General Studies
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in General Studies
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Format: Fully online
    BA in Religion
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Format: Fully online
    BSN in Nursing
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Public Health
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Format: Fully online
    Compare school
  10. #9

    University of Detroit Mercy

    Detroit , MI
    #13 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Doctoral Degrees 2026 #2 Best Private Colleges in Michigan 2026 #2 Best Small Colleges in Michigan 2026 #2 Best Christian Colleges in Michigan 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $34K

    Acceptance

    75%

    Graduation

    74%

    Student body

    6K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1145/25

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Detroit Mercy

    Cost of Degree: $32,300
    Expenses: $15,190
    Starting Salary: $74,106
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of Detroit Mercy known for?

    University of Detroit Mercy’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  12. #10

    Hope College

    Holland , MI
    #10 50 Best Christian Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities 2026 #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Michigan 2026 #3 Best Private Colleges in Michigan 2026 #3 Best Small Colleges in Michigan 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $44K

    Acceptance

    79%

    Graduation

    78%

    Student body

    3K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1220/28

    Career Outlook for degree at Hope College

    Cost of Degree: $37,670
    Expenses: $15,370
    Starting Salary: $65,961
    Cost Recoup Time: 14 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Hope College known for?

    Hope College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  13. #11

    Calvin University

    Grand Rapids , MI
    #7 Best CCCU Colleges and Universities 2026 #12 50 Best Christian Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities 2026 #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Michigan 2026 #4 Best Private Colleges in Michigan 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $41K

    Acceptance

    71%

    Graduation

    77%

    Student body

    4K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1206/27

    Career Outlook for degree at Calvin University

    Cost of Degree: $38,670
    Expenses: $16,250
    Starting Salary: $60,411
    Cost Recoup Time: 15 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Calvin University known for?

    Calvin University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  14. #12

    Kalamazoo College

    Kalamazoo , MI
    #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Michigan 2026 #5 Best Private Colleges in Michigan 2026 #5 Best Small Colleges in Michigan 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $64K

    Acceptance

    75%

    Graduation

    74%

    Student body

    1K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1275/24

    Career Outlook for degree at Kalamazoo College

    Cost of Degree: $58,614
    Expenses: $15,444
    Starting Salary: $66,766
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Kalamazoo College known for?

    Kalamazoo College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  15. #13

    Central Michigan University

    Mount Pleasant , MI
    #8 Most Affordable Colleges in Michigan 2026 #8 Best Public Colleges in Michigan 2026 #10 Best Research Universities in Michigan 2026 #10 Best Grad Schools in Michigan 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $15K

    Acceptance

    90%

    Graduation

    59%

    Student body

    17K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1080/24

    Career Outlook for degree at Central Michigan University

    Cost of Degree: $14,312
    Expenses: $16,868
    Starting Salary: $59,879
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Central Michigan University known for?

    Central Michigan University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  16. #14

    Albion College

    Albion , MI
    #4 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Michigan 2026 #6 Best Private Colleges in Michigan 2026 #6 Best Small Colleges in Michigan 2026 #19 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Earning Business Degrees in 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $59K

    Acceptance

    81%

    Graduation

    57%

    Student body

    1K

    Career Outlook for degree at Albion College

    Cost of Degree: $55,746
    Expenses: $14,370
    Starting Salary: $64,083
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Albion College known for?

    Albion College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  18. #15

    Grand Valley State University

    Allendale , MI
    #5 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Michigan 2026 #9 Most Affordable Colleges in Michigan 2026 #9 Best Public Colleges in Michigan 2026 #6 Best Online Colleges in Michigan 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $16K

    Acceptance

    83%

    Graduation

    65%

    Student body

    25K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1065/26

    Career Outlook for degree at Grand Valley State University

    Cost of Degree: $14,978
    Expenses: $14,399
    Starting Salary: $60,120
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Grand Valley State University known for?

    Grand Valley State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Grand Valley State University’s Online Degrees

    BS in Respiratory Care
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: 4 years
    BSN in Nursing
    • Required Credits: 128
    BS in Health Professional
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    Compare school
  19. #16

    Ferris State University

    Big Rapids , MI
    #10 Most Affordable Colleges in Michigan 2026 #10 Best Public Colleges in Michigan 2026 #2 Best Online Bachelor's of Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Michigan #2 Best Online Associate Degrees in Michigan 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $16K

    Acceptance

    91%

    Graduation

    44%

    Student body

    12K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1005/22

    Career Outlook for degree at Ferris State University

    Cost of Degree: $14,246
    Expenses: $14,086
    Starting Salary: $60,457
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Ferris State University known for?

    Ferris State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Ferris State University’s Online Degrees

    BS in Digital Media Software Engineering
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Business Administration
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Project Management
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Information Security And Intelligence
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Integrative Studies
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Technical Education Pre-Mo-Ted
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Allied Health Science
    • Format: Fully online
    BSN in Nursing
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Respiratory Therapy
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Dental Hygiene
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Hvac/R Engineering Technology And Energy Management
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Automotive Management
    • Format: Fully online
    Compare school
  20. #17

    Kettering University

    Flint , MI
    #6 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Michigan 2026 #7 Best Private Colleges in Michigan 2026 #7 Best Small Colleges in Michigan 2026 #13 Best Online MBA Programs in Michigan

    Tuition + fees

    $51K

    Acceptance

    79%

    Graduation

    74%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1245/28

    Career Outlook for degree at Kettering University

    Cost of Degree: $45,380
    Expenses: $14,870
    Starting Salary: $96,136
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Kettering University known for?

    Kettering University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  21. #18

    Northern Michigan University

    Marquette , MI
    #7 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Michigan 2026 #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Construction Management Degree Programs #3 Best Online Associate Degrees in Michigan 2026 #4 Best Online Associate in General Studies

    Tuition + fees

    $15K

    Acceptance

    84%

    Graduation

    54%

    Student body

    8K

    Career Outlook for degree at Northern Michigan University

    Cost of Degree: $13,622
    Expenses: $15,620
    Starting Salary: $51,936
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Northern Michigan University known for?

    Northern Michigan University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Northern Michigan University’s Online Degrees

    BAS in Applied Science In Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Construction Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: 4 years
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Loss Prevention Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: 4 years
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Ski Area Business Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: 4 years
    BS in Applied Workplace Leadership
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: 4 years
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Criminal Justice
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: 4 years
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Clinical Lab Sciences/Laboratory Medicine
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: 4 years
    • Format: Fully online
    BSN in Nursing
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: 4 years
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Psychology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: 4 years
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Electrical Engineering Technology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: 4 years
    Compare school
  22. #19

    University of Michigan–Dearborn

    Dearborn , MI
    #8 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Michigan 2026 #11 Best Online MBA Programs in Michigan #9 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Finance Degree Programs 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $16K

    Acceptance

    56%

    Graduation

    61%

    Student body

    9K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1122/26

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Michigan–Dearborn

    Cost of Degree: $14,944
    Starting Salary: $66,897
    What is University of Michigan–Dearborn known for?

    University of Michigan–Dearborn’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  24. #20

    Adrian College

    Adrian , MI
    #5 Best Christian Colleges in Michigan 2026 #8 Best Private Colleges in Michigan 2026 #8 Best Small Colleges in Michigan 2026 #9 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Michigan 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $43K

    Acceptance

    73%

    Graduation

    51%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1006/24

    Career Outlook for degree at Adrian College

    Cost of Degree: $40,556
    Expenses: $16,448
    Starting Salary: $56,860
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Adrian College known for?

    Adrian College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  25. #21

    University of Michigan–Flint

    Flint , MI
    #6 Online Colleges with the Most Generous Financial Aid in 2026 #9 Best Online Doctorate of Physical Therapy Programs (PhDs) #9 Best Online Colleges in Michigan 2026 #12 Best Online MBA Programs in Michigan

    Tuition + fees

    $15K

    Acceptance

    70%

    Graduation

    43%

    Student body

    8K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1106/21

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Michigan–Flint

    Cost of Degree: $13,566
    Expenses: $15,872
    Starting Salary: $58,635
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of Michigan–Flint known for?

    University of Michigan–Flint’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    University of Michigan–Flint’s Online Degrees

    BA in Applied Science
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Health Care Administration
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Early Childhood Studies
    • Required Credits: 128
    • Format: Fully online
    BA in Business Administration
    Degree Concentrations
    • Accounting
    • Entrepreneurship and Innovation Management
    • Finance
    • General Business
    • International Business
    • Marketing
    • Organizational Behavior & Human Resouces Management (OBHRM)
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Nursing
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Psychology
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Respiratory Therapy
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Substance Use Treatment and Intervention
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion Time: 4 years
    • Format: Fully online
    Compare school
  26. #22

    Alma College

    Alma , MI
    #6 Best Christian Colleges in Michigan 2026 #9 Best Private Colleges in Michigan 2026 #9 Best Small Colleges in Michigan 2026 #10 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Michigan 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $52K

    Acceptance

    57%

    Graduation

    68%

    Student body

    1K

    Career Outlook for degree at Alma College

    Cost of Degree: $47,430
    Expenses: $16,510
    Starting Salary: $59,874
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Alma College known for?

    Alma College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  27. #23

    Saginaw Valley State University

    University Center , MI
    #4 Best Online MBA in Economics Degree Programs Ranked in 2026 #15 Best Online Master's in Economics 2026 #16 Best Online MBA Programs in Michigan #17 Best Online Master's Programs in Michigan 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $14K

    Acceptance

    72%

    Graduation

    51%

    Student body

    8K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1045/22

    Career Outlook for degree at Saginaw Valley State University

    Cost of Degree: $12,240
    Expenses: $14,040
    Starting Salary: $55,838
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Saginaw Valley State University known for?

    Saginaw Valley State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  28. #24

    Lawrence Technological University

    Southfield , MI
    #10 Best Private Colleges in Michigan 2026 #10 Best Small Colleges in Michigan 2026 #17 Best Online MBA Programs in Michigan #18 Best Online Master's Programs in Michigan 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $46K

    Acceptance

    56%

    Graduation

    60%

    Student body

    4K

    Career Outlook for degree at Lawrence Technological University

    Cost of Degree: $41,872
    Expenses: $18,582
    Starting Salary: $78,800
    Cost Recoup Time: 14 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Lawrence Technological University known for?

    Lawrence Technological University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  30. #25

    Lake Superior State University

    Sault Ste Marie , MI

    Tuition + fees

    $16K

    Acceptance

    68%

    Graduation

    50%

    Student body

    2K

    Career Outlook for degree at Lake Superior State University

    Cost of Degree: $14,266
    Expenses: $14,717
    Starting Salary: $55,573
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Lake Superior State University known for?

    Lake Superior State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  31. #26

    Olivet College

    Olivet , MI
    #19 Best Colleges and Universities by Academic Stewardship #7 Best Christian Colleges in Michigan 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $35K

    Acceptance

    83%

    Graduation

    37%

    Student body

    1K

    Career Outlook for degree at Olivet College

    Cost of Degree: $33,076
    Expenses: $15,852
    Starting Salary: $54,181
    Cost Recoup Time: 15 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Olivet College known for?

    Olivet College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  32. #27

    Madonna University

    Livonia , MI
    #22 The Best Catholic Colleges and Universities Ranked for 2026 #8 Best Christian Colleges in Michigan 2026 #4 Best Online Associate Degrees in Michigan 2026 #11 Best Online Colleges in Michigan 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $30K

    Acceptance

    63%

    Graduation

    54%

    Student body

    2K

    Career Outlook for degree at Madonna University

    Cost of Degree: $27,360
    Expenses: $16,590
    Starting Salary: $60,349
    Cost Recoup Time: 13 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Madonna University known for?

    Madonna University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Madonna University’s Online Degrees

    BS in Hospitality And Tourism Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BA in Organizational Leadership
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Criminal Justice
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Family And Consumer Science
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BA in General Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BA in Sociology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BSN in Nursing: RN to BSN
    • Required Credits: 38
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Gerontology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Long Term Care
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    Compare school
  33. #28

    Spring Arbor University

    Spring Arbor , MI
    #9 Best Christian Colleges in Michigan 2026 #7 Best Online Master’s in Executive MBA #12 Best Online Colleges in Michigan 2026 #20 Best Online MBA Programs in Michigan

    Tuition + fees

    $36K

    Acceptance

    52%

    Graduation

    62%

    Student body

    3K

    Career Outlook for degree at Spring Arbor University

    Cost of Degree: $32,580
    Expenses: $13,540
    Starting Salary: $56,715
    Cost Recoup Time: 14 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Spring Arbor University known for?

    Spring Arbor University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Spring Arbor University’s Online Degrees

    BS in Nursing
    • Format: Fully online
    Compare school
  34. #29

    Davenport University

    Grand Rapids , MI
    #2 Best Online Associate in Human Resources #3 Best Online Bachelor's of Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Michigan #3 Best Online Associate in Finance #7 Best Online Associate Degrees in Michigan 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $26K

    Acceptance

    98%

    Graduation

    53%

    Student body

    6K

    Career Outlook for degree at Davenport University

    Cost of Degree: $23,324
    Expenses: $15,918
    Starting Salary: $52,260
    Cost Recoup Time: 13 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Davenport University known for?

    Davenport University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Davenport University’s Online Degrees

    BBA in Business
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: 4 years
    • Format: Fully online
    BBA in Finance
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: 4 years
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Human Resource Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: 4 years
    • Format: Fully online
    BBA in International Business
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: 4 years
    • Format: Fully online
    BBA in Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: 4 years
    • Format: Fully online
    BBA in Marketing
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: 4 years
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Project Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: 4 years
    • Format: Fully online
    BBA in Sport Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: 4 years
    • Format: Fully online
    BBA in Accounting
    • Required Credits: 132
    • Completion Time: 4 years
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Computer Information Systems
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: 4 years
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Computer Science
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: 4 years
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Cyber Defense
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: 4 years
    • Format: Fully online
    BBA in Fraud Investigation
    • Required Credits: 123
    • Completion Time: 4 years
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Leadership And Organizational Performance
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: 4 years
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Case Management
    Degree Concentrations
    • Completion
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: 4 years
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Health Information Management
    Degree Concentrations
    • Completion
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: 4 years
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Medical Case Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: 4 years
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Health Services Administration
    • Required Credits: 132
    • Completion Time: 4 years
    • Format: Fully online
    BSN in Nursing: RN to BSN
    • Required Credits: 120-122
    • Format: Fully online
    BBA in Industrial Production Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: 4 years
    • Format: Fully online
    Compare school
  36. #30

    Concordia University Ann Arbor

    Ann Arbor , MI
    #5 Best Online Bachelor's of Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Michigan #9 Best Online MBAs in Sustainability #12 Best Online Doctorate in Organizational Leadership Degree Programs 2026 #16 Best Online Colleges in Michigan 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $36K

    Acceptance

    69%

    Graduation

    48%

    Student body

    2K

    Career Outlook for degree at Concordia University Ann Arbor

    Cost of Degree: $34,200
    Expenses: $18,410
    Starting Salary: $61,992
    Cost Recoup Time: 15 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Concordia University Ann Arbor known for?

    Concordia University Ann Arbor’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Concordia University Ann Arbor’s Online Degrees

    BS in Applied Computer Science
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Accounting
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    Compare school
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Michigan’s Best Colleges in Your Area of Interest

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2021 Ranking Archive

Many of our 2024 undergraduate focused rankings look considerably different than 2023. That’s because we took a fundamentally different approach. For 2024 we utilized our Concentrated Influence algorithm, designed to take away the size advantage larger schools have when we rank their faculty and alumni’s academic influence. Concentrated influence highlights smaller schools that are proportionally as successful as larger universities at cultivating influential alumni and faculty.

  1. University of Michigan
  2. Kalamazoo College
  3. Kettering University
  4. University of Detroit Mercy
  5. Michigan State University
  6. Lawrence Technological University
  7. Michigan Technological University
  8. Andrews University
  9. University of Michigan–Dearborn
  10. Hope College
  11. Albion College
  12. Calvin University
  13. Western Michigan University
  14. Aquinas College
  15. Central Michigan University
  16. Madonna University
  17. Alma College
  18. Adrian College
  19. Grand Valley State University
  20. Cornerstone University
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