Best Grad Schools in Michigan 2024

Badge for BEST IN MICHIGAN GRADUATE SCHOOLS
By Dr. James Barham
Reviewed By Jenn Finley
Updated:

Best Grad Schools in Michigan

  1. University of Michigan
    • Tuition: $18K
  2. Michigan State University
    • Tuition: $17K
  3. Wayne State University
    • Tuition: $16K
  4. Western Michigan University
    • Tuition: $15K
  5. Eastern Michigan University
    • Tuition: $16K
  6. Andrews University
    • Tuition: $33K
  7. Oakland University
    • Tuition: $16K
  8. Michigan Technological University
    • Tuition: $19K
  9. University of Detroit Mercy
    • Tuition: $31K
  10. Central Michigan University
    • Tuition: $14K

Key Takeaways

  • Sixteen schools in Michigan meet our criteria for the best grad schools in the state.
  • Earning a master’s or doctorate degree from one of the state’s best grad schools will qualify graduates to work in one of Michigan’s top industries.
  • It is important to choose a grad school in Michigan that offers opportunities for independent research, mentorships, and professional networking.

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.

Colleges and Universities in Michigan

With over 80 public and private colleges to choose from, students hoping to earn their master’s, or doctorate 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.

Both traditional and online students at these schools can study areas like engineering, business, healthcare, law, philosophy, or even religious studies. One of these degree programs give graduates the knowledge necessary to work in one of Michigan’s top industries, including:

  • Advanced Manufacturing
  • Automotive Manufacturing
  • Engineering, Design & Development
  • Technology
  • Life Sciences & Medical Devices

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.


What are Michigan’s Colleges & Universities?

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.

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Best Grad Schools in Michigan

  1. #1

    University of Michigan

    Ann Arbor , MI
    #2 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #2 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2025 #2 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2025 #2 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025

    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: $18,309
    Expenses: $17,554
    Starting Salary: $79,000
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 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

    With cutting-edge research facilities and global opportunities, the University of Michigan offers highly-ranked graduate programs across disciplines such as engineering, business, public health, law, and the arts.

    What we love about the University of Michigan:

    The university’s MBA program comes with Multidisciplinary Action Projects that allow students to work with real companies to solve business challenges.

    The University of Michigan is ideal for students who:

    Seek a balanced student life through recreational activities.

    The University of Michigan might not be the best fit for students who:

    Refrain from joining personal development workshops.

    Compare school
  2. #2

    Michigan State University

    East Lansing , MI
    #21 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2025 #23 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #24 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2025 #2 Best Colleges in Michigan 2025

    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: $17,270
    Expenses: $16,680
    Starting Salary: $63,200
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 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

    With a commitment to excellence and collaboration, Michigan State University’s graduate students often work with various departments for research and innovation projects.

    What we love about Michigan State University:

    The Graduate School offers different student services, such as mental health support, health insurance, and housing assistance.

    Michigan State University is ideal for students who:

    Are looking for a graduate school that values representation and diversity.

    Michigan State University might not be the best fit for students who:

    Don’t want to work with mentors and faculty instructors.

    Compare school
  3. #3

    Wayne State University

    Detroit , MI
    #2 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024 #3 Best Colleges in Michigan 2025 #3 Best Research Universities in Michigan 2025 #3 Most Affordable Colleges in Michigan 2025

    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: $15,464
    Expenses: $17,488
    Starting Salary: $52,300
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 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

    With a heavy emphasis on research, Wayne State University provides countless opportunities for graduate students to expand their learning and connect with global organizations.

    What we love about Wayne State University:

    The Pathway to Faculty Program provides funding and research support for doctoral students who are interested in teaching at the university after graduation.

    Wayne State University is ideal for students who:

    Plan on joining international exchange programs.

    Wayne State University might not be the best fit for students who:

    Are not interested in being mentored by research advisors.

    Compare school
  4. #4

    Western Michigan University

    Kalamazoo , MI
    #4 Best Colleges in Michigan 2025 #4 Best Research Universities in Michigan 2025 #4 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024 #4 Most Affordable Colleges in Michigan 2025

    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: $15,298
    Expenses: $15,472
    Starting Salary: $50,500
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 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 offers flexible graduate programs, with learning formats ranging from in-person to online and hybrid coursework.

    What we love about Western Michigan University:

    The school’s Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Ceramics degree program uniquely combines skills development with artist exposure and residency opportunities.

    Western Michigan University is ideal for students who:

    Loves exploring cafes near the campus.

    Western Michigan University might not be the best fit for students who:

    Are looking for more graduate scholarship options.

    Compare school
  5. #5

    Eastern Michigan University

    Ypsilanti , MI
    #5 Best Colleges in Michigan 2025 #5 Best Research Universities in Michigan 2025 #5 Most Affordable Colleges in Michigan 2025 #6 Best Public Colleges in Michigan 2024

    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: $16,260
    Expenses: $16,344
    Starting Salary: $43,900
    Cost Recoup Time: 13 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

    With a diverse range of fields, Eastern Michigan University’s graduate programs offer specialized training and hands-on research opportunities tailored to meet individual needs and interests.

    What we love about Eastern Michigan University:

    The university is home to numerous research centers, such as the Institute for Geospatial Research and Education and the Textile Research and Training Institute.

    Eastern Michigan University is ideal for students who:

    Want to complete a capstone project for their graduate degree.

    Eastern Michigan University might not be the best fit for students who:

    Prefer taking up more independent study courses.

    Compare school
  7. #6

    Andrews University

    Berrien Springs , MI
    #13 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Doctoral Degrees 2025 #1 Best Christian Colleges in Michigan 2025 #6 Best Private Colleges in Michigan 2024 #6 Best Small Colleges in Michigan 2024

    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: $33,710
    Expenses: $12,250
    Starting Salary: $47,800
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 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

    With competitive graduate programs, Andrews University invests in its students by providing modern research centers, various scholarship options, and a wide array of recreational facilities.

    What we love about Andrews University:

    The Seventh-day Adventist Theological Seminary offers different graduate programs geared towards enhancing ministerial skills and preparing students for leadership roles in church.

    Andrews University is ideal for students who:

    Want to finish a Masters in Architecture.

    Andrews University might not be the best fit for students who:

    Uncomfortable with outdoor activities.

    Compare school
  8. #7

    Oakland University

    Rochester Hills , MI
    #5 Best Public Colleges in Michigan 2024 #6 Best Colleges in Michigan 2025 #6 Best Research Universities in Michigan 2025 #6 Most Affordable Colleges in Michigan 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $16K

    Acceptance

    90%

    Graduation

    58%

    Student body

    20K

    Career Outlook for degree at Oakland University

    Cost of Degree: $16,429
    Expenses: $14,609
    Starting Salary: $48,100
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 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

    Transforming passion to drive, graduate students at Oakland University receive exceptional training through their competent faculty, support services, and learning initiatives.

    What we love about Oakland University:

    The university’s fully online graduate degree line-up includes some hard-to-find programs such as Forensic Nursing, Human Movement Science, and Systems Engineering.

    Oakland University is ideal for students who:

    Prefer personalized attention for graduate mentors.

    Oakland University might not be the best fit for students who:

    Want more payment plan options.

    Compare school
  9. #8

    Michigan Technological University

    Houghton , MI
    #7 Best Colleges in Michigan 2025 #7 Best Research Universities in Michigan 2025 #7 Most Affordable Colleges in Michigan 2025 #7 Best Public Colleges in Michigan 2024

    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: $19,747
    Expenses: $16,366
    Starting Salary: $66,800
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 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

    Fueling curiosity, Michigan Technological University offers master’s and Ph.D. programs that provide interdisciplinary collaboration and real-world experiences across various fields of study.

    What we love about Michigan Technological University:

    The university offers a Graduate School Emergency Fund that aims to help students struggling financially or those facing unexpected needs.

    Michigan Technological University is ideal for students who:

    Are looking for a globally recognized graduate institution.

    Michigan Technological University might not be the best fit for students who:

    Seek a graduate degree in Nursing.

    Compare school
  10. #9

    University of Detroit Mercy

    Detroit , MI
    #14 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Doctoral Degrees 2025 #3 Best Private Colleges in Michigan 2024 #3 Best Small Colleges in Michigan 2024 #3 Best Christian Colleges in Michigan 2025

    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: $32,300
    Expenses: $15,190
    Starting Salary: $53,700
    Cost Recoup Time: 15 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

    Whether it’s Business Administration or Health Professions, the University of Detroit Mercy’s graduate programs offer value, extensive training, and supportive backing.

    What we love about the University of Detroit Mercy:

    The university’s School of Law continues to deliver outstanding graduates, providing hands-on lawyering in mini-clinics and externships.

    The University of Detroit Mercy is ideal for students who:

    Are looking for a comprehensive dentistry graduate program.

    University of Detroit Mercy might not be the best fit for students who:

    Avoid attending ministry services.

    Compare school
  11. #10

    Central Michigan University

    Mount Pleasant , MI
    #8 Most Affordable Colleges in Michigan 2025 #9 Best Public Colleges in Michigan 2024 #10 Best Research Universities in Michigan 2025 #10 Best Online MBA in Human Resources Ranked for Students in 2024

    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: $14,312
    Expenses: $16,868
    Starting Salary: $46,200
    Cost Recoup Time: 13 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

    Providing unparalleled support, Central Michigan University’s graduate studies office offers personalized graduate degree planning and career advising.

    What we love about Central Michigan University:

    The university boasts various student facilities ranging from an extensive online library to cozy in-campus accommodation and a modern fitness center.

    Central Michigan University is ideal for students who:

    Want to save time in finishing their Master’s through an accelerated graduate program.

    Central Michigan University might not be the best fit for students who:

    Avoid working on thesis or research projects.

    Compare school
  13. #11

    Ferris State University

    Big Rapids , MI
    #10 Most Affordable Colleges in Michigan 2025 #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

    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: $14,246
    Expenses: $14,086
    Starting Salary: $49,600
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 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 offers comprehensive master’s and doctoral curriculums that are paired with reliable support services and academic advising.

    What we love about Ferris State University:

    The university provides flexible payment plans for graduate students, making it easier to manage tuition costs and reducing financial stress.

    Ferris State University is ideal for students who:

    Are looking for reliable eLearning services for their graduate program.

    Ferris State University might not be the best fit for students who:

    Plan on participating in graduate fellowships.

    Compare school
  14. #12

    University of Michigan–Dearborn

    Dearborn , MI
    #11 Best Online MBA Programs in Michigan #8 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Finance Degree Programs 2024

    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: $14,944
    Starting Salary: $56,200
    What is University of Michigan–Dearborn known for?

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

    Most Influential Alumni

    University of Michigan-Dearborn helps its graduate students advance in their fields through comprehensive academic training, professional development resources, and experiential learning opportunities.

    What we love about the University of Michigan-Dearborn:

    With the 4+1 program option, graduate students can work on earning both a Business Administration and an Accounting Master’s in as fast as five years.

    University of Michigan-Dearborn is ideal for students who:

    Seek a supportive learning environment with hands-on teachers.

    University of Michigan-Dearborn might not be the best fit for students who:

    Not interested in networking and meeting industry professionals.

    Compare school
  15. #13

    University of Michigan–Flint

    Flint , MI
    #6 Online Colleges with the Most Generous Financial Aid in 2025 #9 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: $13,566
    Expenses: $15,872
    Starting Salary: $44,500
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 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

    Boasting world-class graduate curriculums, the University of Michigan-Flint maintains a supportive and dynamic academic environment that fosters career growth and excellence.

    What we love about the University of Michigan-Flint:

    Interested graduate students who want to work as Nursing faculty can take advantage of the Nurse Faculty Loan Program, which provides loan coverage upon employment.

    University of Michigan-Flint is ideal for students who:

    Plan on pursuing a specialist program in Education.

    University of Michigan-Flint might not be the best fit for students who:

    Are not enthusiastic about developing a plan of study.

    Compare school
  16. #14

    Lawrence Technological University

    Southfield , MI
    #17 Best Online MBA Programs in Michigan #18 Best Online Master's Programs in Michigan 2025 #22 Best Online Master’s in Information Technology 2025 #25 Best Online Master’s in Engineering Management 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $40K

    Acceptance

    82%

    Graduation

    66%

    Student body

    4K

    Career Outlook for degree at Lawrence Technological University

    Cost of Degree: $41,872
    Expenses: $18,582
    Starting Salary: $60,500
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 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

    Lawrence Technological University emphasizes leadership across its graduate programs, equipping students with the skills to head organizations and lead innovation projects.

    What we love about Lawrence Technological University:

    The school maintains active partnerships with companies from various industries, providing graduate students with unique opportunities for training and networking.

    Lawrence Technological University is ideal for students who:

    Seek state-of-the-art research facilities that support studies in artificial intelligence and manufacturing.

    Lawrence Technological University might not be the best fit for students who:

    Don’t want to consult with a dedicated academic advisor.

    Compare school
  17. #15

    Madonna University

    Livonia , MI
    #8 Best Christian Colleges in Michigan 2025 #9 Best Private Colleges in Michigan 2024 #9 Best Small Colleges in Michigan 2024 #9 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Michigan 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $26K

    Acceptance

    65%

    Graduation

    49%

    Student body

    3K

    Career Outlook for degree at Madonna University

    Cost of Degree: $27,360
    Expenses: $16,590
    Starting Salary: $44,400
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Madonna University known for?

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

    Changing lives, Madonna University equips both students and professionals with an expanded skill set that allows them to advance in their careers.

    What we love about Madonna University:

    Offering flexibility and convenience, the school’s fully online program options include Criminal Justice, Nursing Practice, and Public Health.

    Madonna University is ideal for students who:

    Are interested in advancing their knowledge in Forensic Science.

    Madonna University might not be the best fit for students who:

    Are looking for an online graduate program in Social Work.

    Compare school
  19. #16

    Cornerstone University

    Grand Rapids , MI
    #6 Best Online Associate Degrees in Michigan 2024 #8 Best Online Colleges in Michigan 2024 #8 Best Online Associate in Biblical Studies #13 Best Online Doctorate in Organizational Leadership Degree Programs 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $28K

    Acceptance

    82%

    Graduation

    62%

    Student body

    2K

    Career Outlook for degree at Cornerstone University

    Cost of Degree: $29,100
    Expenses: $15,370
    Starting Salary: $40,800
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Cornerstone University known for?

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

    Most Influential Alumni

    Integrating faith and community spirit, graduate programs at Cornerstone University are filled with professional development, innovation, and peer collaboration.

    What we love about Cornerstone University:

    Understanding the importance of flexibility for graduate students, the university offers various learning options, including weekend and online classes, paired with reliable academic support and tech services.

    Cornerstone University is ideal for students who:

    Seek graduate studies in Theology, Ministry Leadership, and Biblical Studies.

    Cornerstone University might not be the best fit for students who:

    Are not interested in joining graduate events and campus activities.

    Compare school
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Michigan’s Best Grad School for Your Area of Interest

Anthropology Biology Business Chemistry Commun­ications Computer Science Criminal Justice Earth Sciences Economics Education Engineering History Law Literature Mathematics Medical Nursing Philosophy Physics Political Science Psychology Religious Studies Social Work Sociology

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.

2023 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. Michigan State University
  3. Western Michigan University
  4. Michigan Technological University
  5. University of Michigan–Dearborn
  6. University of Detroit Mercy
  7. Central Michigan University
  8. Oakland University
  9. Eastern Michigan University
  10. Lawrence Technological University
  11. Andrews University
  12. Ferris State University
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