Michigan’s Best Colleges and Universities by Academic Stewardship
What are the best colleges and universities in Michigan if you reward schools for making the best use of their limited resources? Academic Stewardship asks how effectively schools manage their financial and human resources to gain the influence that makes them academically excellent. Schools that are exemplary in Academic Stewardship are doing everything in their power to help students and faculty achieve their full potential.
Colleges and universities in Michigan deserve to be recognized when they do more with less. It’s impressive when a large wealthy school can spend money lavishly on expensive buildings and programs. But it’s even more impressive when a small school with limited means is able to train and inspire students that the larger wealthier schools tend to ignore.
The American Association of Colleges and Universities reported in late 2021 that almost 75 percent of higher-education professionals at US colleges and universities felt financial constraints prevented their schools from effectively attracting students. Distracted by the size and amenities of larger schools, prospective students tended especially to be overawed by the big research universities.
Michigan’s smaller colleges, especially its liberal arts colleges, need effective ways of communicating their value to a world that celebrates “bigger is better” and “you need the best.” Unfortunately, most college ranking companies, such as U.S. News & World Report, define “best” in a way that devalues schools with smaller budgets and fewer students even when these schools do remarkable work in advancing their students’ education. By and large, college rankings penalize schools that serve underserved populations.
Inspired by Malcolm Gladwell, who for years now has criticized conventional college rankings for misrepresenting what’s good and valuable in education, we decided to construct a new ranking metric that highlights those schools that do more with less. That metric—called the Academic Stewardship metric—takes away both the size and the wealth advantage of schools, and focuses instead on how well schools use the resources available to them to advance the education of their students.
How We Measure the Academic Stewardship of Michigan’s Colleges and Universities
As a metric, Academic Stewardship is defined by a precise mathematical formula, which can be found in our Academic Stewardship white paper. Measuring the Academic Stewardship of Michigan’s colleges requires measuring two forms of stewardship: 1) Stewardship of financial resources (using the money they have responsibility without waste) and 2) Stewardship of human resources (doing their best to help students, faculty, and administration to flourish). Together, these two types of stewardship form what we call Academic Stewardship. If you want to learn more about the factors involved in Academic Stewardship, click the more button below.
- Stewardship of financial resources: To determine a school’s stewardship of financial resources, we factored in its undergraduate size, budget, endowments and reserves, as well as tuition and fees. All these data are available from the National Center for Educational Statistics Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System. In addition, we factored in a school’s financial responsibility as gauged by the Federal Student Aid Office at the US Department of Education through its financial responsibility composite scores.
- Stewardship of human resources: To determine a school’s stewardship of human resources, we used our InfluenceRanking engine to track the influence of the school’s faculty and alumni but also to control for size of the undergraduate student body. We’ve found that measuring a school’s influence based on the contributions of faculty and alumni make in their fields of study but then also controlling for size of the undergraduate population is the single best indicator of academic excellence. We call this Concentrated Influence. Schools that rank highly in Concentrated Influence are schools that, given their available human resources, invest heavily in their students and faculty, and the results are demonstrable.
- We measure the influence of colleges and universities based on the publications and citations of the schools’ faculty and alumni who are teaching in and working in areas related to their degrees. To do this, we take publicly available databases, such as Semantic Scholar, Crossref, and Wikipedia and use these to measure the influence of academics in their disciplines. Having measured the influence of persons, we then identify the schools that they’re affiliated with, adding up the influence scores of the faculty and alumni to measure the influence of the schools and their disciplinary programs. Finally, we control these influence scores by size of undergraduate student body so that schools do not score high in influence simply because of a size advantage. We lay out these methodological considerations on our methodology page.
- Academic Stewardship: Having measured a school’s stewardship of financial and human resources in the two previous points, we now divide the second measure by the first to define the Academic Stewardship metric. This metric spotlights smaller schools, with fewer financial resources and people, that invest wisely and do proportionately better in building influence than large wealthy schools. Many of these smaller, less wealthy schools are incentivized to make better use of their resources but would never get recognized in conventional school rankings, which directly or indirectly put a premium on the wealth of schools.
Academic Stewardship as so defined is connected to keeping tuition and other costs down, but it should not be confused with affordability or frugality. The schools that this metric ranks as exemplary academic stewards tend to be all over the map when it comes to tuition and other costs. At issue is the influence of schools given the financial and human resources they have on hand. If a school is going to charge more for tuition, then that needs to be reflected in the school having proportionately greater influence.
Why Academic Stewardship Matters to Students and Their Families
The benefits of attending a school with strong academic stewardship include:
- A clear reason for why students are at the school in the first place. Without the distraction of amenities and luxuries, these schools are at once unpretentious but also passionately committed to their educational mission. The schools in this ranking are financially efficient and academically rigorous. By avoiding frills, these schools take the most direct path to accomplishing their mission of educating students.
- Valuing character over prestige and self-indulgence. A school that’s a good steward of its resources doesn’t instill shame in its students over what they are missing (such as elite cuisine) but rather pride in what they have and making the most of it. These schools exhibit a culture of good stewardship, which tends to build good character in the students that attend these schools.
- Avoiding the spoiled-student syndrome. It’s easy to think that offering students endless options and opportunities will enrich their time at school in every way. But spoiling people—whether in business, sports, or academics—has the opposite effect, causing people to take their advantages for granted and in the end achieving less than they might otherwise, a point well-documented in Daniel Coyle’s The Talent Code. Schools exhibiting academic stewardship avoid this pitfall.
- The best schools vs. the schools that help students to be their best. Students at schools demonstrating outstanding academic stewardship aren’t so much concerned about being at the “best” school, whatever that may mean, as about being at a school that helps them to be their best. These schools pay attention to their students, hoping that any glory goes to them rather than to the school. Small schools, and especially liberal arts colleges, help themselves by communicating this advantage to prospective students.
- Emphasizing development over talent and achievement. Schools like Harvard and Stanford have their pick of academic talent, and their students have a long record of achievement even before they apply to such elite schools. But if a school doesn’t have the resources of a Harvard or Stanford, how does it build a great team of students? In that case, it must focus on student development. Colleges exemplifying academic stewardship emphasize student growth and development, ensuring that the schools are doing everything in their power to help students reach their full potential and thereby become their best selves.
Michigan’s Best Colleges and Universities by Academic Stewardship
- #10 Best Colleges and Universities by Academic Stewardship #7 Best Christian Colleges in Michigan 2024 #10 Best Private Colleges in Michigan 2024 #10 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Michigan 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$32K
Acceptance
85%
Graduation
44%
Student body
<1K
Career Outlook for degree at Olivet College
Cost of Degree: $32,006Expenses: $15,208Starting Salary: $42,200Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Olivet College known for?
Olivet College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
- #5 Best Private Colleges in Michigan 2024 #5 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Michigan 2024 #5 Best Small Colleges in Michigan 2024 #23 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Earning Business Degrees in 2024
Tuition + fees
$55K
Acceptance
67%
Graduation
59%
Student body
2K
Career Outlook for degree at Albion College
Cost of Degree: $54,930Expenses: $13,970Starting Salary: $55,700Cost Recoup Time: 18 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Albion College known for?
Albion College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Computer Science
- Economics
- Psychology
- Earth Sciences
- Literature
- Biology
- Political Science
- Business
Most Influential Alumni
- #4 Best Private Colleges in Michigan 2024 #4 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Michigan 2024 #4 Best Small Colleges in Michigan 2024
Tuition + fees
$57K
Acceptance
79%
Graduation
80%
Student body
1K
Median SAT/ACT
1285/29
Career Outlook for degree at Kalamazoo College
Cost of Degree: $56,412Expenses: $14,611Starting Salary: $54,400Cost Recoup Time: 19 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Kalamazoo College known for?
Kalamazoo College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Economics
- Political Science
- Literature
- Chemistry
- Sociology
- Biology
- Mathematics
- Philosophy
- Physics
- Computer Science
Most Influential Alumni
- #5 Best Christian Colleges in Michigan 2024 #8 Best Private Colleges in Michigan 2024 #8 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Michigan 2024 #8 Best Small Colleges in Michigan 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$40K
Acceptance
69%
Graduation
51%
Student body
2K
Median SAT/ACT
1050/21
Career Outlook for degree at Adrian College
Cost of Degree: $39,596Expenses: $15,902Starting Salary: $42,800Cost Recoup Time: 19 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Adrian College known for?
Adrian College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
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
- #10 Best Grad Schools 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
Andrews University’s Online Degrees
BS in Business Administration
- Required Credits: 124
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in General Studies
- Required Credits: 124
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in General Studies
- Required Credits: 124
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Religion
- Required Credits: 124
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BSN in Nursing
- Required Credits: 124
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #7 Best Private Colleges in Michigan 2024 #7 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Michigan 2024 #7 Best Small Colleges in Michigan 2024 #13 Best Online MBA Programs in Michigan
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$44K
Acceptance
81%
Graduation
69%
Student body
2K
Median SAT/ACT
1250/27
Career Outlook for degree at Kettering University
Cost of Degree: $43,935Expenses: $14,230Starting Salary: $78,500Cost Recoup Time: 13 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Kettering University known for?
Kettering University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
Tuition + fees
$46K
Acceptance
65%
Graduation
62%
Student body
1K
Career Outlook for degree at Alma College
Cost of Degree: $45,616Expenses: $15,934Starting Salary: $46,500Cost Recoup Time: 19 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Alma College known for?
Alma College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
- #5 50 Best Christian Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities 2024 #2 Best Private Colleges in Michigan 2024 #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Michigan 2024 #2 Best Christian Colleges in Michigan 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$38K
Acceptance
80%
Graduation
80%
Student body
3K
Median SAT/ACT
1210/27
Career Outlook for degree at Hope College
Cost of Degree: $37,221Expenses: $14,840Starting Salary: $50,700Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Hope College known for?
Hope College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
- #2 50 Best Christian Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities 2024 #3 Best CCCU Colleges and Universities 2024 #1 Best Private Colleges in Michigan 2024 #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Michigan 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$39K
Acceptance
74%
Graduation
77%
Student body
4K
Median SAT/ACT
1245/27
Career Outlook for degree at Calvin University
Cost of Degree: $38,620Expenses: $15,450Starting Salary: $48,700Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Calvin University known for?
Calvin University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Philosophy
- Religious Studies
- Computer Science
- Psychology
- Physics
- Social Work
- Chemistry
- Biology
- Literature
- Engineering
Most Influential Alumni
- #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
- #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
- #6 Best Grad Schools 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
- #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Michigan 2024 #8 Most Affordable Colleges in Michigan 2024 #8 Best Public Colleges in Michigan 2024 #1 Best Online Associate Degrees in Michigan 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$13K
Acceptance
71%
Graduation
53%
Student body
8K
Career Outlook for degree at Northern Michigan University
Cost of Degree: $12,948Expenses: $14,784Starting Salary: $39,800Cost Recoup Time: 13 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Northern Michigan University known for?
Northern Michigan University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Anthropology
- Economics
- Nursing
- Criminal Justice
- Social Work
- Earth Sciences
- Biology
- Sociology
- Engineering
- Communications
Most Influential Alumni
Northern Michigan University’s Online Degrees
BAS in Applied Science In Management
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Construction Management
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Loss Prevention Management
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Ski Area Business Management
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: None Reported
BS in Applied Workplace Leadership
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Criminal Justice
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Clinical Lab Sciences/Laboratory Medicine
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BSN in Nursing
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Psychology
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #7 Most Affordable Colleges in Michigan 2024 #7 Best Public Colleges in Michigan 2024 #8 Best Research Universities in Michigan 2024 #8 Best Grad Schools 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
- #6 Most Affordable Colleges in Michigan 2024 #6 Best Public Colleges in Michigan 2024 #7 Best Research Universities in Michigan 2024 #7 Best Grad Schools in Michigan 2024
Other Rankings
- #9 Best Colleges in Michigan 2024
- #1 Best Online Bachelor's of Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Michigan
- #5 Best Online MBA Programs in Michigan
- #6 Best Online Colleges in Michigan 2024
- #7 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity
- #7 Best Online Master's Programs in Michigan 2024
- #12 Best Online Master's in Special Education
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
Eastern Michigan University’s Online Degrees
BS in Information. Assurance And Cyber Defense
- Required Credits: 124
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BSN in Nursing: RN to BSN
- Required Credits: 30
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #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 Best Grad Schools in Michigan 2024
Other Rankings
- #3 Most Affordable Colleges in Michigan 2024
- #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
Wayne State University’s Online Degrees
BS in Mortuary Science
- Required Credits: 56
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Social Work
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #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 Best Grad Schools in Michigan 2024
Other Rankings
- #4 Most Affordable Colleges in Michigan 2024
- #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
Western Michigan University’s Online Degrees
BS in Family Studies, Child And Family Development
- Required Credits: 122
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: 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: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Nursing
- Required Credits: 60
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS/BA in University Studies
- Required Credits: 56 or more
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #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
Ferris State University’s Online Degrees
BS in Digital Media Software Engineering
- Required Credits: None Reported
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Business Administration
- Required Credits: None Reported
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Project Management
- Required Credits: None Reported
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Information Security And Intelligence
- Required Credits: None Reported
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Integrative Studies
- Required Credits: None Reported
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Technical Education Pre-Mo-Ted
- Required Credits: None Reported
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Allied Health Science
- Required Credits: None Reported
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BSN in Nursing
- Required Credits: None Reported
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Respiratory Therapy
- Required Credits: None Reported
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Dental Hygiene
- Required Credits: None Reported
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Hvac/R Engineering Technology And Energy Management
- Required Credits: None Reported
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #5 Best Research Universities in Michigan 2024 #5 Best Grad Schools in Michigan 2024 #5 Most Affordable Colleges in Michigan 2024 #5 Best Public Colleges in Michigan 2024
Other Rankings
- #6 Best Colleges in Michigan 2024
- #3 Best Online Colleges in Michigan 2024
- #3 Best Online Master’s in Forensics Degree Programs
- #6 Best Online Master's Programs in Michigan 2024
- #7 Best Online MBA Programs in Michigan
- #16 Best Online Master's in Nursing MSN
- #17 Best RN to BSN Online
- #24 Best Online Master’s in Engineering Management
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
Oakland University’s Online Degrees
BSN in Nursing Rn To Bsn
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Environmental Health And Safety
- Required Credits: 125
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #9 Best Research Universities in Michigan 2024 #9 Best Grad Schools in Michigan 2024 #9 Most Affordable Colleges in Michigan 2024 #9 Best Public Colleges in Michigan 2024
Other Rankings
- #8 Fastest Accelerated Online Public Health Doctorates (PhDs)
- #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
- #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 Best Grad Schools 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
- #6 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Michigan 2024 #10 Most Affordable Colleges in Michigan 2024 #10 Best Public Colleges in Michigan 2024 #11 Best Online Colleges in Michigan 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$14K
Acceptance
90%
Graduation
66%
Student body
25K
Median SAT/ACT
1085/24
Career Outlook for degree at Grand Valley State University
Cost of Degree: $14,302Expenses: $13,245Starting Salary: $47,200Cost Recoup Time: 11 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Grand Valley State University known for?
Grand Valley State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Social Work
- Earth Sciences
- Criminal Justice
- Anthropology
- Sociology
- Business
- Political Science
- Economics
- Nursing
- Biology
Most Influential Alumni
Grand Valley State University’s Online Degrees
BS in Respiratory Care
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: None Reported
BSN in Nursing
- Required Credits: 128
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: None Reported
BS in Health Professional
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #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 Best Grad Schools in Michigan 2024
- #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 Best Online Associate in Software Development #14 Best Online Associate Degrees in Michigan 2024 #17 20 Fastest Online Associate's of Business Degree Programs Ranked 2024
Tuition + fees
$7K
Graduation
21%
Student body
5K
Career Outlook for degree at Lake Michigan College
Cost of Degree: $7,148Expenses: $17,808Starting Salary: $27,200Cost Recoup Time: 15 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Lake Michigan College known for?
Lake Michigan College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- #10 Best Christian Colleges in Michigan 2024 #7 Best Online Master’s in Executive MBA #13 Best Online Colleges in Michigan 2024 #15 Best Online Master's in Healthcare Administration
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$32K
Acceptance
47%
Graduation
60%
Student body
3K
Median SAT/ACT
1052/23
Career Outlook for degree at Spring Arbor University
Cost of Degree: $31,660Expenses: $13,232Starting Salary: $45,000Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat 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
- Required Credits: None Reported
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #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
University of Michigan–Flint’s Online Degrees
BA in Applied Science
- Required Credits: 124
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Health Care Administration
- Required Credits: 124
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Early Childhood Studies
- Required Credits: 128
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: 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
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Nursing
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Psychology
- Required Credits: 124
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Respiratory Therapy
- Required Credits: 124
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
Michigan’s Best Colleges in Your Area of Interest
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