Best Grad Schools in Michigan 2024
Graduate school may be a critical step in your higher education, whether you are interested in expanding your knowledge, learning a specialization, or earning advanced credentials required by your profession. The best graduate schools in Michigan offer advanced degrees, such as master’s and doctoral degrees, as well as opportunities for independent research, mentorships, and professional networking.
10 Best Grad Schools in Michigan
- University of Michigan
- Michigan State University
- Wayne State University
- Western Michigan University
- Oakland University
- University of Detroit Mercy
- Eastern Michigan University
- Michigan Technological University
- Central Michigan University
- Andrews University
- University of Michigan
- Michigan State University
- Wayne State University
- Western Michigan University
- Eastern Michigan University
- Andrews University
- Oakland University
- Michigan Technological University
- University of Detroit Mercy
- Central Michigan University
- Michigan Technological University 94%
- University of Detroit Mercy 91%
- Andrews University 91%
- Oakland University 90%
- Michigan State University 88%
- Ferris State University 88%
- Western Michigan University 85%
- Eastern Michigan University 83%
- Lawrence Technological University 82%
- Cornerstone University 82%
- Central Michigan University 17 to 1
- Michigan State University 17 to 1
- Oakland University 17 to 1
- Western Michigan University 16 to 1
- University of Michigan–Dearborn 16 to 1
- Cornerstone University 15 to 1
- Ferris State University 15 to 1
- Wayne State University 14 to 1
- Eastern Michigan University 14 to 1
- University of Michigan–Flint 13 to 1
- Lawrence Technological University $39,570
- Andrews University $32,734
- University of Detroit Mercy $31,058
- Cornerstone University $27,880
- Madonna University $26,100
- Michigan Technological University $18,592
- University of Michigan $17,454
- Michigan State University $16,437
- Eastern Michigan University $16,410
- Oakland University $15,723
- Andrews University $26,580
- University of Michigan $25,894
- Michigan Technological University $23,607
- University of Detroit Mercy $21,626
- Michigan State University $20,202
- Oakland University $20,016
- Lawrence Technological University $18,774
- Wayne State University $17,682
- Western Michigan University $17,539
- Eastern Michigan University $16,857
- Cornerstone University
- University of Michigan–Flint
- University of Michigan–Dearborn
- Lawrence Technological University
- Madonna University
- Ferris State University
- Andrews University
- Central Michigan University
- Michigan Technological University
- Eastern Michigan University
- Cornerstone University
- Madonna University
- Lawrence Technological University
- University of Michigan–Flint
- University of Michigan–Dearborn
- Ferris State University
- Central Michigan University
- University of Detroit Mercy
- Michigan Technological University
- Oakland University
- University of Michigan 18%
- University of Michigan–Dearborn 54%
- Madonna University 65%
- University of Michigan–Flint 66%
- Wayne State University 75%
- Central Michigan University 79%
- Cornerstone University 82%
- Lawrence Technological University 82%
- Eastern Michigan University 83%
- Western Michigan University 85%
- Andrews University 10 to 1
- University of Detroit Mercy 11 to 1
- Lawrence Technological University 11 to 1
- University of Michigan 12 to 1
- Madonna University 12 to 1
- University of Michigan–Flint 13 to 1
- Michigan Technological University 13 to 1
- Wayne State University 14 to 1
- Eastern Michigan University 14 to 1
- Cornerstone University 15 to 1
- University of Michigan–Flint $12,234
- Ferris State University $13,076
- Central Michigan University $13,650
- University of Michigan–Dearborn $13,920
- Wayne State University $14,140
- Western Michigan University $14,523
- Oakland University $15,723
- Eastern Michigan University $16,410
- Michigan State University $16,437
- University of Michigan $17,454
- Ferris State University $8,532
- University of Michigan–Flint $12,740
- Cornerstone University $14,160
- University of Michigan–Dearborn $14,890
- Central Michigan University $15,942
- Madonna University $16,830
- Eastern Michigan University $16,857
- Western Michigan University $17,539
- Wayne State University $17,682
- Lawrence Technological University $18,774
Colleges and Universities in Michigan
With over 80 public and private colleges to choose from, students hoping to earn their associate, bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree can find a program that suits their educational needs and budget. Michigan State University and the University of Michigan are the two largest schools, both serving around 42,000 students and costing $16,000 in tuition. Most of the schools in The Wolverine State, however, serve smaller student populations, with tuition fees ranging from $3,000 to $49,000.
Find college admissions consultants in your state.
Additionally, students pursuing their degree at a school with religious affiliations have more than 20 options to choose from, including Sacred Heart Major Seminary in Detroit, Grand Rapid’s Calvin College, and Hope College in Holland. Students attending one of Michigan’s private schools, like Davenport University, can earn their degrees in fields like nursing, education, criminal justice, and history. Michigan, like many other states, also provides a special loan forgiveness program to those in medical, dental, and mental health professions who work in underserved communities. Recipients can receive up to $200,000 of tax-free funds over an eight-year period.
The great state of Michigan famously serves as the major hub of the United States auto industry - and also boasts the longest freshwater coastline in the nation. Students who love the outdoors but are also drawn to the metropolitan energy of big cities like Detroit and Grand Rapids will feel very much at home in Michigan.
To find your degree program, explore some of the top schools in Michigan.
What are Michigan’s Colleges & Universities?
- 12 Research Universities
- 30 Liberal Arts Colleges & Universities
- 16 Graduate Schools
- 21 Public Colleges & Universities
- 21 Private Colleges & Universities
- 16 Christian Colleges & Universities
- 26 Small Colleges & Universities (fewer than 5,000 students)
- 21 Affordable Colleges (below $20,000/year)
- 23 Community Colleges
- 20 Online Colleges
Michigan’s Best Overall
There are 16 doctorate-granting graduate schools in Michigan. Our ranking of the best graduate schools in the Michigan is composed of both private and public schools. To be included, schools must be fully accredited non-profit institutions, and must offer doctoral degrees and a broad array of graduate degrees.
Best Grad Schools in Michigan 2023
- #2 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2024 #2 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2024 #2 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2024 #2 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2024
Other Rankings
- #4 Top Schools that Offer Free Master's Degrees Online
- #9 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024
- #11 50 Best Graduate Schools Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024
- #11 Best Universities in the World 2024
- #22 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024
- #1 Best Research Universities in Michigan 2024
- #1 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
- #1 Best Colleges in Michigan 2024
- #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Michigan 2024
- #1 Best Public Colleges in Michigan 2024
- #2 Best Research Universities for Education Degrees
- #4 Best Research Universities for Business Degrees
- #5 Best Research Universities for Nursing Degrees
- #6 Best Research Universities for Psychology Degrees
- #6 Best Research Universities for Communications Degrees
- #8 Best Research Universities for Anthropology Degrees
- #8 Best Research Universities for Sociology Degrees
- #9 Best Research Universities for History Degrees
- #10 Best Research Universities for Computer Science Degrees
- #11 Best Research Universities for Engineering Degrees
- #11 Best Research Universities for Philosophy Degrees
- #11 Best Research Universities for Math Degrees
- #11 Best Research Universities for Economics Degrees
- #12 Best Research Universities for English Degrees
- #12 Best Research Universities for Political Science Degrees
- #13 Best Research Universities for Earth Sciences Degrees
- #13 Best Research Universities for Physics Degrees
- #13 Best Research Universities for Chemistry Degrees
- #13 Best Research Universities for Biology Degrees
- #14 Best Research Universities for Religious Studies Degrees
- #1 Best Online MBA Programs in Michigan
- #1 Best Online Master's Programs in Michigan 2024
- #1 Best Online Master’s in Health Science
- #1 Best Online MBA Degree Programs No GRE Required Ranked for 2024
- #1 Top 8 Best Online Public Health PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
- #1 Top 5 Best Online Sociology PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates) 2024
- #1 Fastest Online Master's Degrees Ranked for Students in 2024
- #2 Best Online History Doctorate Degree Programs (PhDs) 2024
- #2 Top 10 Best Online Communications PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
- #2 Best Online Master's Programs 2024
- #2 Top 5 Best Online Sociology PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates) 2024
- #3 Top 3 Best Online Economics PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
- #3 Top 5 Best Online English PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
- #4 Top 6 Best Online Clinical Nutrition PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
- #6 Guide to Free Online Courses for MBA Students in 2024
- #5 The Best Traditional MBA Programs Ranked for Students in 2024
Tuition + fees
$18K
Acceptance
18%
Graduation
93%
Student body
52K
Median SAT/ACT
1440/32
Career Outlook for degree at University of Michigan
Cost of Degree: $17,786Expenses: $16,820Starting Salary: $79,000Cost Recoup Time: 9 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is University of Michigan known for?
University of Michigan’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Sociology
- Psychology
- Engineering
- Anthropology
- Computer Science
- Medical
- Education
- Mathematics
- History
- Social Work
Most Influential Alumni
- #20 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2024 #21 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2024 #2 Best Research Universities in Michigan 2024 #2 Best Colleges in Michigan 2024
Other Rankings
- #2 Most Affordable Colleges in Michigan 2024
- #2 Best Public Colleges in Michigan 2024
- #3 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
- #2 Best Online MBA Programs in Michigan
- #2 Best Online Master's Programs in Michigan 2024
- #3 Best Online MBA Degree Programs No GRE Required Ranked for 2024
- #6 Best Online Master's in Management
- #9 Best Online Master's Programs 2024
- #23 The Best Traditional MBA Programs Ranked for Students in 2024
Tuition + fees
$17K
Acceptance
88%
Graduation
82%
Student body
54K
Median SAT/ACT
1260/28
Career Outlook for degree at Michigan State University
Cost of Degree: $16,617Expenses: $15,618Starting Salary: $63,200Cost Recoup Time: 10 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Michigan State University known for?
Michigan State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
- #2 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024 #3 Best Research Universities in Michigan 2024 #3 Best Colleges in Michigan 2024 #3 Most Affordable Colleges in Michigan 2024
Other Rankings
- #3 Best Public Colleges in Michigan 2024
- #1 Best Online MBA in Human Resources Ranked for Students in 2024
- #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Social Work Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
- #1 Best Online Colleges in Michigan 2024
- #2 Best Online MBA in Supply Chain Management Ranked for Students in 2024
- #2 Best Online MBA in Accounting Degree Programs
- #3 Best Online MBA Programs in Michigan
- #3 Best Online Master's Programs in Michigan 2024
- #3 Best Online MBA in Entrepreneurship Ranked for Students in 2024
- #3 Best Online MBA in Business Analytics Ranked for Students in 2024
- #3 Best Online Master’s in Human Resources
- #4 Best Online Master's in Sports Management
- #5 Best Online MBAs in Finance
- #8 Top 20 Most Affordable Online MBA Degree Programs Ranked 2024
- #9 Best Online Master’s in Education
- #11 Best Online Master's Degrees in Accounting
- #17 Best Online Master's in Criminal Justice
- #19 The Best Online MBA Degree Programs in 2024 Ranked for Students
Tuition + fees
$16K
Acceptance
75%
Graduation
60%
Student body
29K
Median SAT/ACT
1150/24
Career Outlook for degree at Wayne State University
Cost of Degree: $15,882Expenses: $16,873Starting Salary: $52,300Cost Recoup Time: 12 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Wayne State University known for?
Wayne State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
- #4 Best Research Universities in Michigan 2024 #4 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024 #4 Best Colleges in Michigan 2024 #4 Most Affordable Colleges in Michigan 2024
Other Rankings
- #4 Best Public Colleges in Michigan 2024
- #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Religious Studies Degree Programs for 2024
- #2 Best Online Colleges in Michigan 2024
- #3 Best Online Bachelor’s in Child Development Degree Programs for 2024
- #4 Best Online MBA Programs in Michigan
- #4 Best Online Master's Programs in Michigan 2024
Tuition + fees
$15K
Acceptance
85%
Graduation
55%
Student body
20K
Median SAT/ACT
1105/23
Career Outlook for degree at Western Michigan University
Cost of Degree: $14,623Expenses: $14,803Starting Salary: $50,500Cost Recoup Time: 11 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Western Michigan University known for?
Western Michigan University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
- #5 Best Research Universities in Michigan 2024 #5 Most Affordable Colleges in Michigan 2024 #5 Best Public Colleges in Michigan 2024 #6 Best Colleges in Michigan 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$16K
Acceptance
90%
Graduation
58%
Student body
20K
Career Outlook for degree at Oakland University
Cost of Degree: $15,723Expenses: $14,636Starting Salary: $48,100Cost Recoup Time: 12 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Oakland University known for?
Oakland University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
- #8 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Doctoral Degrees #3 Best Private Colleges in Michigan 2024 #3 Best Christian Colleges in Michigan 2024 #3 Best Small Colleges in Michigan 2024
Other Rankings
- #5 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
- #6 Best Research Universities in Michigan 2024
- #8 Best Colleges in Michigan 2024
- #25 Best Research Universities for Social Work Degrees
- #8 Best Online Master's Programs in Michigan 2024
- #9 Best Online MBA Programs in Michigan
- #10 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Master's Degrees
- #13 Best Online Master's in Economics
- #19 Best Online Master’s in Finance
Tuition + fees
$31K
Acceptance
91%
Graduation
73%
Student body
6K
Median SAT/ACT
1084/23
Career Outlook for degree at University of Detroit Mercy
Cost of Degree: $31,058Expenses: $14,560Starting Salary: $53,700Cost Recoup Time: 15 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is University of Detroit Mercy known for?
University of Detroit Mercy’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
- #6 Most Affordable Colleges in Michigan 2024 #6 Best Public Colleges in Michigan 2024 #7 Best Research Universities in Michigan 2024 #9 Best Colleges in Michigan 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$16K
Acceptance
83%
Graduation
45%
Student body
19K
Median SAT/ACT
1055/21
Career Outlook for degree at Eastern Michigan University
Cost of Degree: $16,410Expenses: $14,566Starting Salary: $43,900Cost Recoup Time: 13 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Eastern Michigan University known for?
Eastern Michigan University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Social Work
- Sociology
- Anthropology
- Earth Sciences
- Education
- Business
- Communications
- History
- Computer Science
- Criminal Justice
Most Influential Alumni
- #7 Most Affordable Colleges in Michigan 2024 #7 Best Public Colleges in Michigan 2024 #8 Best Research Universities in Michigan 2024 #10 Best Colleges in Michigan 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$19K
Acceptance
94%
Graduation
68%
Student body
7K
Median SAT/ACT
1240/27
Career Outlook for degree at Michigan Technological University
Cost of Degree: $18,910Expenses: $15,664Starting Salary: $66,800Cost Recoup Time: 10 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Michigan Technological University known for?
Michigan Technological University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Chemistry
- Engineering
- Earth Sciences
- Biology
- Computer Science
- Physics
- Mathematics
- Business
- Communications
- Literature
Most Influential Alumni
- #9 Best Research Universities in Michigan 2024 #9 Most Affordable Colleges in Michigan 2024 #9 Best Public Colleges in Michigan 2024 #8 Fastest Accelerated Online Public Health Doctorates (PhDs)
Other Rankings
- #9 Best Online Master's in Project Management
- #10 Best Online MBA Programs in Michigan
- #10 Best Online MBA in Human Resources Ranked for Students in 2024
- #11 15 Most Affordable Online Public Health Doctorates (PhDs)
- #11 Best Online Master's Programs in Michigan 2024
- #11 Best Online Master's in Organizational Leadership
- #18 Best Online Master’s in Human Resources
Tuition + fees
$14K
Acceptance
79%
Graduation
62%
Student body
18K
Median SAT/ACT
1100/24
Career Outlook for degree at Central Michigan University
Cost of Degree: $13,703Expenses: $13,318Starting Salary: $46,200Cost Recoup Time: 11 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Central Michigan University known for?
Central Michigan University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Earth Sciences
- Business
- Chemistry
- Social Work
- Psychology
- Communications
- History
- Economics
- Mathematics
- Political Science
Most Influential Alumni
- #16 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Doctoral Degrees #4 Best Christian Colleges in Michigan 2024 #6 Best Private Colleges in Michigan 2024 #6 Best Small Colleges in Michigan 2024
Other Rankings
- #10 Best Research Universities in Michigan 2024
- #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Religious Studies Degree Programs for 2024
- #1 Best Online Associate in Christian Ministry
- #2 Best Online Associate Degrees in Michigan 2024
- #3 Best Online Master’s in Biblical Studies
- #4 Best Online Doctorate of Physical Therapy Programs (PhDs)
- #5 Best Online Colleges in Michigan 2024
- #6 Best Online MBA Programs in Michigan
- #6 Best Online Associate in General Studies
- #6 Best Online Associate in Business Administration
- #10 Best Online Master’s in Educational Administration
- #12 Best Online Bachelor's in Public Health Degree Programs for Students
- #13 Best Online Master's Programs in Michigan 2024
- #14 Best Online Master's in Organizational Leadership
- #25 Best Online Doctorate in Education Degree Programs Ranked for Students
Tuition + fees
$33K
Acceptance
91%
Graduation
71%
Student body
4K
Median SAT/ACT
1225/24
Career Outlook for degree at Andrews University
Cost of Degree: $32,734Expenses: $11,674Starting Salary: $47,800Cost Recoup Time: 15 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Andrews University known for?
Andrews University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
- #2 Best Online Bachelor's of Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Michigan #3 Best Online Associate Degrees in Michigan 2024 #5 Best Online Associate in Marketing #9 Best Online Bachelor’s of Health Science Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$13K
Acceptance
88%
Graduation
49%
Student body
13K
Median SAT/ACT
1030/20
Career Outlook for degree at Ferris State University
Cost of Degree: $13,608Expenses: $13,600Starting Salary: $49,600Cost Recoup Time: 11 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Ferris State University known for?
Ferris State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Nursing
- Social Work
- Criminal Justice
- Medical
- Computer Science
- Engineering
- Education
- Business
- Psychology
- Economics
Most Influential Alumni
- #6 Best Christian Colleges in Michigan 2024 #9 Best Private Colleges in Michigan 2024 #9 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Michigan 2024 #9 Best Small Colleges in Michigan 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$26K
Acceptance
65%
Graduation
49%
Student body
3K
Career Outlook for degree at Madonna University
Cost of Degree: $26,100Expenses: $15,690Starting Salary: $44,400Cost Recoup Time: 15 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Madonna University known for?
Madonna University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- #7 Best Online Master’s in Information Technology #17 Best Online MBA Programs in Michigan #19 Best Online Master's Programs in Michigan 2024 #23 Best Online Master’s in Engineering Management
Tuition + fees
$40K
Acceptance
82%
Graduation
66%
Student body
4K
Career Outlook for degree at Lawrence Technological University
Cost of Degree: $39,570Expenses: $17,839Starting Salary: $60,500Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Lawrence Technological University known for?
Lawrence Technological University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Engineering
- Computer Science
- Business
- Mathematics
- Nursing
- Physics
- Communications
- Education
- Literature
- Chemistry
Most Influential Alumni
Tuition + fees
$14K
Acceptance
54%
Graduation
56%
Student body
10K
Median SAT/ACT
1150/25
Career Outlook for degree at University of Michigan–Dearborn
Cost of Degree: $14,320Starting Salary: $56,200What is University of Michigan–Dearborn known for?
University of Michigan–Dearborn’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Engineering
- Mathematics
- Anthropology
- Physics
- Communications
- Computer Science
- Sociology
- Biology
- Philosophy
- Political Science
Most Influential Alumni
- #5 Online Colleges with the Most Generous Financial Aid in 2024 #10 Best Online Doctorate of Physical Therapy Programs (PhDs) #12 Best Online MBA Programs in Michigan #16 Best Online Colleges in Michigan 2024
Tuition + fees
$13K
Acceptance
66%
Graduation
46%
Student body
7K
Median SAT/ACT
1075/24
Career Outlook for degree at University of Michigan–Flint
Cost of Degree: $12,858Expenses: $13,764Starting Salary: $44,500Cost Recoup Time: 12 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is University of Michigan–Flint known for?
University of Michigan–Flint’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Nursing
- Anthropology
- Medical
- Engineering
- Communications
- Criminal Justice
- Computer Science
- Economics
- Biology
- Political Science
Most Influential Alumni
- #4 Best Online Associate in Biblical Studies #6 Best Online Associate Degrees in Michigan 2024 #8 Best Online Colleges in Michigan 2024 #9 Best Online Bachelor’s of Christian Ministry Degree Programs for 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$28K
Acceptance
82%
Graduation
62%
Student body
2K
Career Outlook for degree at Cornerstone University
Cost of Degree: $27,880Expenses: $14,780Starting Salary: $40,800Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Cornerstone University known for?
Cornerstone University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Social Work
- Religious Studies
- Communications
- Psychology
- Business
- History
- Education
- Computer Science
- Literature
- Medical
Most Influential Alumni
Michigan’s Best Grad School for Your Area of Interest
Resources for Prospective Grad Students
Whether you’re just getting started on your college search, you’re looking for survival tips on your way to a bachelor’s degree, or you’re preparing for the transition into grad school, we’ve got guides, how to’s and tons of other valuable resources to keep you moving forward in your educational journey.
2021 Ranking Archive
Many of our 2022 undergraduate focused rankings look considerably different than 2021. That’s because we took a fundamentally different apporach. For 2021 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.
- University of Michigan
- Michigan State University
- Western Michigan University
- Michigan Technological University
- University of Michigan–Dearborn
- University of Detroit Mercy
- Central Michigan University
- Oakland University
- Eastern Michigan University
- Lawrence Technological University
- Andrews University
- Ferris State University