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Best Michigan Colleges: 2017-2018 Rankings

Michigan Michigan

When so many options are available for a college education, it helps to see all the pertinent information in one place. Our rankings of Michigan colleges are calculated based on financial aid availability, tuition cost, graduation rate, student-to-teacher ratio, and similar criteria. This results in a comprehensive list of quality schools that can help students in their search for higher education.

Methodology +
Minimum Qualifications
  • Located in Michigan
  • Public or private not-for-profit
  • Institutionally accredited
  • At least 5 total programs
Ranking Metrics
  • Median annual alumni earnings 10 years after entering the college
  • In-state tuition and fees for undergraduates
  • Student/teacher ratio
  • % of students receiving institutional financial aid (first-time, full-time undergrads)
  • Average amount of institutional aid awarded per student (first-time, full-time undergrads)
  • Availability of placement services upon completion
  • Availability of academic/career counseling services
  • Availability of employment services
  • 3-year student cohort loan default rate
Data Sources

Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS): National Center for Education Statistics

  • Latest 'Final Release' data available as of Fall 2016

College Scorecard: U.S. Department of Education

  • Latest data available as of Fall 2016
Minimum Qualifications
  • Located in Michigan
  • Public or private not-for-profit
  • Institutionally accredited
  • At least 10 total programs
Ranking Metrics
  • Median annual alumni earnings 10 years after entering the college
  • In-state tuition and fees for undergraduates
  • Student/teacher ratio
  • 6-year graduation rate
  • % of students receiving institutional financial aid (first-time, full-time undergrads)
  • Average amount of institutional aid awarded per student (first-time, full-time undergrads)
  • Availability of placement services upon completion
  • Availability of academic/career counseling services
  • Availability of employment services
  • 3-year student cohort loan default rate
Data Sources

Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS): National Center for Education Statistics

  • Latest 'Final Release' data available as of Fall 2016

College Scorecard: U.S. Department of Education

  • Latest data available as of Fall 2016
Rank School Name Score Tuition Fees Alumni Earnings Student/Teacher Ratio Gift Financial Aid Description Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate # Online Programs # Total Programs Placement Services Credit for Experience
1
Lansing Community College
99.79
Published in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students.
 $ $$$$
Annual median earnings 10 years after entering the college. Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
 $26,500 		N/A
First-time, full-time undergraduates receiving grant or scholarship aid directly from the postsecondary institution.
 10% 		8% N/A 1 N/A Yes Yes
2
Washtenaw Community College
99
Published in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students.
 $ $$$$
Annual median earnings 10 years after entering the college. Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
 $26,500 		N/A
First-time, full-time undergraduates receiving grant or scholarship aid directly from the postsecondary institution.
 14% 		16% N/A 6 N/A Yes Yes
3
Delta College
98.59
Published in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students.
 $ $$$$
Annual median earnings 10 years after entering the college. Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
 $26,500 		N/A
First-time, full-time undergraduates receiving grant or scholarship aid directly from the postsecondary institution.
 9% 		16% N/A 1 N/A Yes Yes
4
Henry Ford Community College
98.45
Published in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students.
 $ $$$$
Annual median earnings 10 years after entering the college. Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
 $26,500 		N/A
First-time, full-time undergraduates receiving grant or scholarship aid directly from the postsecondary institution.
 1% 		6% N/A 10 N/A Yes No
5
Kellogg Community College
98.38
Published in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students.
 $ $$$$
Annual median earnings 10 years after entering the college. Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
 $26,500 		N/A
First-time, full-time undergraduates receiving grant or scholarship aid directly from the postsecondary institution.
 12% 		15% N/A 0 N/A Yes Yes
6
Alpena Community College
98.18
Published in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students.
 $ $$$$
Annual median earnings 10 years after entering the college. Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
 $26,500 		N/A
First-time, full-time undergraduates receiving grant or scholarship aid directly from the postsecondary institution.
 24% 		27% N/A 0 N/A Yes Yes
7
Schoolcraft College
97.83
Published in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students.
 $ $$$$
Annual median earnings 10 years after entering the college. Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
 $26,500 		N/A
First-time, full-time undergraduates receiving grant or scholarship aid directly from the postsecondary institution.
 13% 		17% N/A 4 N/A Yes Yes
8
Macomb Community College
97.62
Published in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students.
 $ $$$$
Annual median earnings 10 years after entering the college. Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
 $26,500 		N/A
First-time, full-time undergraduates receiving grant or scholarship aid directly from the postsecondary institution.
 9% 		12% N/A 0 N/A Yes No
9
Oakland Community College
97.56
Published in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students.
 $ $$$$
Annual median earnings 10 years after entering the college. Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
 $26,500 		N/A
First-time, full-time undergraduates receiving grant or scholarship aid directly from the postsecondary institution.
 11% 		11% N/A 0 N/A Yes No
10
Glen Oaks Community College
97.55
Published in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students.
 $ $$$$
Annual median earnings 10 years after entering the college. Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
 $26,500 		N/A
First-time, full-time undergraduates receiving grant or scholarship aid directly from the postsecondary institution.
 28% 		18% N/A 1 N/A No No
11
Gogebic Community College
97.28
Published in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students.
 $ $$$$
Annual median earnings 10 years after entering the college. Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
 $26,500 		N/A
First-time, full-time undergraduates receiving grant or scholarship aid directly from the postsecondary institution.
 24% 		30% N/A 0 N/A Yes Yes
12
Southwestern Michigan College
96.95
Published in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students.
 $ $$$$
Annual median earnings 10 years after entering the college. Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
 $26,500 		N/A
First-time, full-time undergraduates receiving grant or scholarship aid directly from the postsecondary institution.
 30% 		17% N/A 0 N/A No Yes
13
West Shore Community College
96.82
Published in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students.
 $ $$$$
Annual median earnings 10 years after entering the college. Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
 $26,500 		N/A
First-time, full-time undergraduates receiving grant or scholarship aid directly from the postsecondary institution.
 24% 		12% N/A 0 N/A Yes No
14
Mott Community College
96.78
Published in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students.
 $ $$$$
Annual median earnings 10 years after entering the college. Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
 $26,500 		N/A
First-time, full-time undergraduates receiving grant or scholarship aid directly from the postsecondary institution.
 9% 		9% N/A 0 N/A Yes Yes
15
Bay College
96.71
Published in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students.
 $ $$$$
Annual median earnings 10 years after entering the college. Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
 $26,500 		N/A
First-time, full-time undergraduates receiving grant or scholarship aid directly from the postsecondary institution.
 20% 		21% N/A 3 N/A Yes Yes
16
Kalamazoo Valley Community College
96.68
Published in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students.
 $ $$$$
Annual median earnings 10 years after entering the college. Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
 $26,500 		N/A
First-time, full-time undergraduates receiving grant or scholarship aid directly from the postsecondary institution.
 13% 		11% N/A 0 N/A Yes Yes
17
North Central Michigan College
96.26
Published in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students.
 $ $$$$
Annual median earnings 10 years after entering the college. Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
 $26,500 		N/A
First-time, full-time undergraduates receiving grant or scholarship aid directly from the postsecondary institution.
 17% 		12% N/A 0 N/A Yes No
18
Grand Rapids Community College
96.06
Published in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students.
 $ $$$$
Annual median earnings 10 years after entering the college. Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
 $26,500 		N/A
First-time, full-time undergraduates receiving grant or scholarship aid directly from the postsecondary institution.
 7% 		13% N/A 1 N/A Yes Yes
19
St Clair County Community College
95.78
Published in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students.
 $ $$$$
Annual median earnings 10 years after entering the college. Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
 $26,500 		N/A
First-time, full-time undergraduates receiving grant or scholarship aid directly from the postsecondary institution.
 12% 		16% N/A 1 N/A Yes Yes
20
Monroe County Community College
95.4
Published in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students.
 $ $$$$
Annual median earnings 10 years after entering the college. Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
 $26,500 		N/A
First-time, full-time undergraduates receiving grant or scholarship aid directly from the postsecondary institution.
 5% 		12% N/A 0 N/A Yes No
21
Muskegon Community College
95.09
Published in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students.
 $ $$$$
Annual median earnings 10 years after entering the college. Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
 $26,500 		N/A
First-time, full-time undergraduates receiving grant or scholarship aid directly from the postsecondary institution.
 19% 		18% N/A 0 N/A Yes Yes
22
Montcalm Community College
94.9
Published in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students.
 $ $$$$
Annual median earnings 10 years after entering the college. Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
 $26,500 		N/A
First-time, full-time undergraduates receiving grant or scholarship aid directly from the postsecondary institution.
 13% 		10% N/A 0 N/A Yes No
23
Mid Michigan Community College
94.65
Published in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students.
 $ $$$$
Annual median earnings 10 years after entering the college. Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
 $26,500 		N/A
First-time, full-time undergraduates receiving grant or scholarship aid directly from the postsecondary institution.
 16% 		10% N/A 2 N/A Yes Yes
24
Michigan Career and Technical Institute
92.05
Published in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students.
 $$ $$$
Annual median earnings 10 years after entering the college. Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
 $26,500 		N/A
First-time, full-time undergraduates receiving grant or scholarship aid directly from the postsecondary institution.
 N/A 		79% N/A 0 N/A Yes No
25
Kirtland Community College
88.57
Published in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students.
 $ $$$$
Annual median earnings 10 years after entering the college. Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
 $26,500 		N/A
First-time, full-time undergraduates receiving grant or scholarship aid directly from the postsecondary institution.
 18% 		16% N/A 5 N/A Yes Yes
26
Bay Mills Community College
87.86
Published in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students.
 $ $$$$
Annual median earnings 10 years after entering the college. Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
 $26,500 		N/A
First-time, full-time undergraduates receiving grant or scholarship aid directly from the postsecondary institution.
 53% 		16% N/A 1 N/A No No
27
Wayne County Community College District
86
Published in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students.
 $ $$$$
Annual median earnings 10 years after entering the college. Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
 $26,500 		N/A
First-time, full-time undergraduates receiving grant or scholarship aid directly from the postsecondary institution.
 1% 		13% N/A 0 N/A Yes Yes
Rank School Name Score Tuition Fees Alumni Earnings Student/Teacher Ratio Gift Financial Aid Description Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate # Online Programs # Total Programs Placement Services Credit for Experience
1
University of Michigan-Ann Arbor
99.77
Published in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students.
 $$ $$$
Annual median earnings 10 years after entering the college. Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
 $26,500 		N/A
First-time, full-time undergraduates receiving grant or scholarship aid directly from the postsecondary institution.
 47% 		91% 32% 7 N/A Yes No
2
Michigan Technological University
99.01
Published in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students.
 $$ $$$
Annual median earnings 10 years after entering the college. Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
 $26,500 		N/A
First-time, full-time undergraduates receiving grant or scholarship aid directly from the postsecondary institution.
 94% 		66% 76% 6 N/A Yes No
3
Albion College
98.52
Published in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students.
 $$$$ $
Annual median earnings 10 years after entering the college. Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
 $26,500 		N/A
First-time, full-time undergraduates receiving grant or scholarship aid directly from the postsecondary institution.
 100% 		72% 61% 0 N/A Yes No
4
Calvin College
97.17
Published in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students.
 $$$$ $
Annual median earnings 10 years after entering the college. Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
 $26,500 		N/A
First-time, full-time undergraduates receiving grant or scholarship aid directly from the postsecondary institution.
 100% 		77% 73% 0 N/A Yes No
5
Alma College
97.14
Published in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students.
 $$$$ $
Annual median earnings 10 years after entering the college. Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
 $26,500 		N/A
First-time, full-time undergraduates receiving grant or scholarship aid directly from the postsecondary institution.
 100% 		67% 72% 0 N/A Yes No
6
Michigan State University
96.87
Published in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students.
 $$ $$$
Annual median earnings 10 years after entering the college. Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
 $26,500 		N/A
First-time, full-time undergraduates receiving grant or scholarship aid directly from the postsecondary institution.
 44% 		79% 66% 17 N/A Yes No
7
Andrews University
96.85
Published in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students.
 $$$$ $
Annual median earnings 10 years after entering the college. Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
 $26,500 		N/A
First-time, full-time undergraduates receiving grant or scholarship aid directly from the postsecondary institution.
 98% 		59% 37% 7 N/A Yes Yes
8
Lawrence Technological University
96.37
Published in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students.
 $$$$ $
Annual median earnings 10 years after entering the college. Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
 $26,500 		N/A
First-time, full-time undergraduates receiving grant or scholarship aid directly from the postsecondary institution.
 82% 		52% 57% 10 N/A Yes No
9
Hope College
96.25
Published in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students.
 $$$$ $
Annual median earnings 10 years after entering the college. Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
 $26,500 		N/A
First-time, full-time undergraduates receiving grant or scholarship aid directly from the postsecondary institution.
 93% 		77% 77% 0 N/A Yes No
10
Concordia University-Ann Arbor
95.96
Published in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students.
 $$$$ $
Annual median earnings 10 years after entering the college. Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
 $26,500 		N/A
First-time, full-time undergraduates receiving grant or scholarship aid directly from the postsecondary institution.
 100% 		57% 76% 4 N/A Yes No
11
Kalamazoo College
95.91
Published in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students.
 $$$$ $
Annual median earnings 10 years after entering the college. Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
 $26,500 		N/A
First-time, full-time undergraduates receiving grant or scholarship aid directly from the postsecondary institution.
 98% 		81% 70% 0 N/A Yes No
12
Siena Heights University
95.7
Published in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students.
 $$$ $$
Annual median earnings 10 years after entering the college. Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
 $26,500 		N/A
First-time, full-time undergraduates receiving grant or scholarship aid directly from the postsecondary institution.
 99% 		43% 74% 42 N/A Yes Yes
13
University of Detroit Mercy
95.66
Published in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students.
 $$$$ $
Annual median earnings 10 years after entering the college. Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
 $26,500 		N/A
First-time, full-time undergraduates receiving grant or scholarship aid directly from the postsecondary institution.
 98% 		57% 69% 13 N/A Yes Yes
14
Kettering University
95.65
Published in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students.
 $$$$ $
Annual median earnings 10 years after entering the college. Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
 $26,500 		N/A
First-time, full-time undergraduates receiving grant or scholarship aid directly from the postsecondary institution.
 100% 		55% 72% 7 N/A Yes No
15
Spring Arbor University
95.2
Published in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students.
 $$$ $$
Annual median earnings 10 years after entering the college. Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
 $26,500 		N/A
First-time, full-time undergraduates receiving grant or scholarship aid directly from the postsecondary institution.
 99% 		52% 67% 12 N/A No Yes
16
University of Michigan-Dearborn
95.18
Published in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students.
 $$ $$$
Annual median earnings 10 years after entering the college. Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
 $26,500 		N/A
First-time, full-time undergraduates receiving grant or scholarship aid directly from the postsecondary institution.
 71% 		52% 63% 11 N/A Yes No
17
Western Michigan University
95.18
Published in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students.
 $$ $$$
Annual median earnings 10 years after entering the college. Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
 $26,500 		N/A
First-time, full-time undergraduates receiving grant or scholarship aid directly from the postsecondary institution.
 49% 		56% 84% 3 N/A Yes No
18
Aquinas College
94.77
Published in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students.
 $$$$ $
Annual median earnings 10 years after entering the college. Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
 $26,500 		N/A
First-time, full-time undergraduates receiving grant or scholarship aid directly from the postsecondary institution.
 100% 		53% 65% 0 N/A Yes Yes
19
College for Creative Studies
94.49
Published in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students.
 $$$$ $
Annual median earnings 10 years after entering the college. Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
 $26,500 		N/A
First-time, full-time undergraduates receiving grant or scholarship aid directly from the postsecondary institution.
 99% 		57% 46% 0 N/A Yes No
20
Cleary University
94.47
Published in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students.
 $$ $$$
Annual median earnings 10 years after entering the college. Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
 $26,500 		N/A
First-time, full-time undergraduates receiving grant or scholarship aid directly from the postsecondary institution.
 77% 		47% 79% 13 N/A Yes Yes
21
Northwood University-Michigan
94.34
Published in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students.
 $$$ $$
Annual median earnings 10 years after entering the college. Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
 $26,500 		N/A
First-time, full-time undergraduates receiving grant or scholarship aid directly from the postsecondary institution.
 95% 		54% 69% 9 N/A Yes Yes
22
Ferris State University
94.19
Published in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students.
 $$ $$$
Annual median earnings 10 years after entering the college. Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
 $26,500 		N/A
First-time, full-time undergraduates receiving grant or scholarship aid directly from the postsecondary institution.
 63% 		53% 78% 13 N/A Yes Yes
23
Wayne State University
93.99
Published in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students.
 $$ $$$
Annual median earnings 10 years after entering the college. Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
 $26,500 		N/A
First-time, full-time undergraduates receiving grant or scholarship aid directly from the postsecondary institution.
 80% 		28% 77% 5 N/A Yes No
24
Madonna University
93.96
Published in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students.
 $$ $$$
Annual median earnings 10 years after entering the college. Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
 $26,500 		N/A
First-time, full-time undergraduates receiving grant or scholarship aid directly from the postsecondary institution.
 82% 		36% 59% 3 N/A Yes Yes
25
Central Michigan University
93.91
Published in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students.
 $$ $$$
Annual median earnings 10 years after entering the college. Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
 $26,500 		N/A
First-time, full-time undergraduates receiving grant or scholarship aid directly from the postsecondary institution.
 69% 		57% 69% 16 N/A Yes Yes
26
Eastern Michigan University
93.81
Published in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students.
 $$ $$$
Annual median earnings 10 years after entering the college. Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
 $26,500 		N/A
First-time, full-time undergraduates receiving grant or scholarship aid directly from the postsecondary institution.
 90% 		37% 69% 14 N/A Yes Yes
27
Grand Valley State University
93.64
Published in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students.
 $$ $$$
Annual median earnings 10 years after entering the college. Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
 $26,500 		N/A
First-time, full-time undergraduates receiving grant or scholarship aid directly from the postsecondary institution.
 70% 		66% 80% 1 N/A Yes No
28
Oakland University
93.47
Published in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students.
 $$ $$$
Annual median earnings 10 years after entering the college. Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
 $26,500 		N/A
First-time, full-time undergraduates receiving grant or scholarship aid directly from the postsecondary institution.
 76% 		43% 67% 4 N/A Yes No
29
Adrian College
93.41
Published in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students.
 $$$$ $
Annual median earnings 10 years after entering the college. Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
 $26,500 		N/A
First-time, full-time undergraduates receiving grant or scholarship aid directly from the postsecondary institution.
 98% 		59% 62% 0 N/A No No
30
University of Michigan-Flint
92.19
Published in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students.
 $$ $$$
Annual median earnings 10 years after entering the college. Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
 $26,500 		N/A
First-time, full-time undergraduates receiving grant or scholarship aid directly from the postsecondary institution.
 50% 		36% 79% 12 N/A No No
31
Northern Michigan University
92.05
Published in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students.
 $$ $$$
Annual median earnings 10 years after entering the college. Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
 $26,500 		N/A
First-time, full-time undergraduates receiving grant or scholarship aid directly from the postsecondary institution.
 81% 		44% 72% 6 N/A Yes Yes
32
Kuyper College
91.91
Published in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students.
 $$ $$$
Annual median earnings 10 years after entering the college. Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
 $26,500 		N/A
First-time, full-time undergraduates receiving grant or scholarship aid directly from the postsecondary institution.
 92% 		55% 71% 0 N/A Yes No
33
Marygrove College
91.62
Published in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students.
 $$$ $$
Annual median earnings 10 years after entering the college. Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
 $26,500 		N/A
First-time, full-time undergraduates receiving grant or scholarship aid directly from the postsecondary institution.
 92% 		16% 48% 6 N/A Yes Yes
34
Lake Superior State University
91.47
Published in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students.
 $$ $$$
Annual median earnings 10 years after entering the college. Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
 $26,500 		N/A
First-time, full-time undergraduates receiving grant or scholarship aid directly from the postsecondary institution.
 78% 		39% 91% 1 N/A Yes No
35
Saginaw Valley State University
90.92
Published in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students.
 $$ $$$
Annual median earnings 10 years after entering the college. Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
 $26,500 		N/A
First-time, full-time undergraduates receiving grant or scholarship aid directly from the postsecondary institution.
 69% 		38% 80% 0 N/A Yes No
36
Rochester College
90.89
Published in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students.
 $$ $$$
Annual median earnings 10 years after entering the college. Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
 $26,500 		N/A
First-time, full-time undergraduates receiving grant or scholarship aid directly from the postsecondary institution.
 94% 		32% 41% 0 N/A No Yes
37
Davenport University
90.61
Published in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students.
 $$ $$$
Annual median earnings 10 years after entering the college. Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
 $26,500 		N/A
First-time, full-time undergraduates receiving grant or scholarship aid directly from the postsecondary institution.
 89% 		40% 93% 25 N/A Yes Yes
38
Cornerstone University
90.44
Published in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students.
 $$$$ $
Annual median earnings 10 years after entering the college. Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
 $26,500 		N/A
First-time, full-time undergraduates receiving grant or scholarship aid directly from the postsecondary institution.
 96% 		45% 69% 9 N/A Yes Yes
39
Walsh College of Accountancy and Business Administration
90.37
Published in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students.
 $$ $$$
Annual median earnings 10 years after entering the college. Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
 $26,500 		N/A
First-time, full-time undergraduates receiving grant or scholarship aid directly from the postsecondary institution.
 N/A 		N/A N/A 7 N/A Yes No
40
Finlandia University
90.06
Published in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students.
 $$$ $$
Annual median earnings 10 years after entering the college. Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
 $26,500 		N/A
First-time, full-time undergraduates receiving grant or scholarship aid directly from the postsecondary institution.
 93% 		35% 45% 0 N/A No Yes
41
Great Lakes Christian College
89.97
Published in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students.
 $$ $$$
Annual median earnings 10 years after entering the college. Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
 $26,500 		N/A
First-time, full-time undergraduates receiving grant or scholarship aid directly from the postsecondary institution.
 64% 		28% N/A 0 N/A Yes Yes
42
Olivet College
89.8
Published in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students.
 $$$ $$
Annual median earnings 10 years after entering the college. Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
 $26,500 		N/A
First-time, full-time undergraduates receiving grant or scholarship aid directly from the postsecondary institution.
 97% 		43% 61% 1 N/A No Yes
43
Baker College Center for Graduate Studies
88.06
Published in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students.
 $$ $$$
Annual median earnings 10 years after entering the college. Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
 $26,500 		N/A
First-time, full-time undergraduates receiving grant or scholarship aid directly from the postsecondary institution.
 72% 		25% N/A 24 N/A Yes Yes
44
Baker College of Flint
87.11
Published in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students.
 $$ $$$
Annual median earnings 10 years after entering the college. Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
 $26,500 		N/A
First-time, full-time undergraduates receiving grant or scholarship aid directly from the postsecondary institution.
 84% 		10% N/A 10 N/A Yes Yes
45
Baker College of Port Huron
86.89
Published in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students.
 $$ $$$
Annual median earnings 10 years after entering the college. Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
 $26,500 		N/A
First-time, full-time undergraduates receiving grant or scholarship aid directly from the postsecondary institution.
 74% 		32% N/A 7 N/A Yes Yes
46
Baker College of Clinton Township
86.7
Published in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students.
 $$ $$$
Annual median earnings 10 years after entering the college. Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
 $26,500 		N/A
First-time, full-time undergraduates receiving grant or scholarship aid directly from the postsecondary institution.
 85% 		14% N/A 10 N/A Yes Yes
47
Baker College of Muskegon
86.56
Published in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students.
 $$ $$$
Annual median earnings 10 years after entering the college. Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
 $26,500 		N/A
First-time, full-time undergraduates receiving grant or scholarship aid directly from the postsecondary institution.
 80% 		18% N/A 10 N/A Yes Yes
48
Baker College of Auburn Hills
86
Published in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students.
 $$ $$$
Annual median earnings 10 years after entering the college. Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
 $26,500 		N/A
First-time, full-time undergraduates receiving grant or scholarship aid directly from the postsecondary institution.
 72% 		8% N/A 10 N/A Yes Yes

Search & Compare Colleges in Michigan

Research into the best colleges in Michigan requires looking at the details. That's what students will get when they use this handy search tool, which allows for sorting based on tuition rates, types of institutions, acceptance rates, student populations and the like. Students can then compare the results side-by-side to help them choose which schools will go onto the short list of possibilities.

State
Degree Level
School Type
Environment

College Planning, Assistance and Outreach Programs in Michigan

Planning and preparing for college should start as early as possible, so students have a strong grasp of what their financial aid options will be, what classes they will need to take in order to pursue a chosen career, and how they might find more help with transitioning into the workforce upon college completion. These resources unique to Michigan can help students gain an understanding of what it takes to prepare and plan, from college admission to that first entry-level job.

College Application Week

This program is part of an initiative to increase the number of low-income and first-generation students attending college. College Application Week is designed to ensure that each student submits at least one completed college application. During Michigan College Month, slated for October, high schools will host FAFSA drives to help ensure that every high school senior has filed this very important application. The events take place during school days and school hours, thus ensuring that more students have an opportunity to get those applications done.

College Cash Campaign

With college affordability as the biggest hurdle to postsecondary education, the Michigan College Cash Campaign aims to put a spotlight on the importance of the FAFSA during the college application process. The initiative aims to connect high school students with experts who can answer nuanced questions about the process, provide grants and scholarships to participating students, and help students make sense of the crucial financial documents that determine just how much they might owe out-of-pocket.

Michigan Veteran Education Initiative

This program is designed to support military veterans during their transition to civilian life, including providing assistance during the pursuit of higher education. One-on-one support is available to veterans who enroll at Michigan schools, as well as their family members. Launched in 2014, the program works to coordinate services at the institutional, local, state and federal levels, all designed to provide strong assistance to veterans.

Cost Analysis of Colleges in Michigan

Several factors play into the cost of college in Michigan. Tuition and fees are heavily dependent upon whether a student is in-state or out-of-state. In addition, there are several criteria used to judge how much financial aid a student might receive to cover those costs. Here's a rundown of how the state of Michigan stacks up against the nation in these very important areas.

Average Michigan Tuition & Fees at 4-Year Public Colleges

Source: CollegeBoard

% of Michigan Students Receiving Financial Aid

Source: IPEDS

Average Financial Aid Award for Michigan Students

Source: IPEDS

* Institutional aid represents grant and scholarship funds directly awarded by a postsecondary institution.

* Financial aid data represents 4-year public and private nonprofit schools only.

Most Affordable Michigan Colleges

When it comes to affordable colleges in Michigan, a few schools stand out. The following rankings of the most affordable colleges in the state are based on net price-the cost of attendance minus the financial aid received-and also include information on how those colleges compare to the national average.

Average
Annual Net
Price

Cost for students awarded federal financial aid, after school and government aid is deducted. At public colleges, only applies to in-state students.
Michigan College Net Price vs. National Average
MICHIGAN $15,980 Average
Annual Net Price		 $18,073

Source: College Scorecard
Note: Rankings/data represent 4-year public and private nonprofit schools only.

Michigan Colleges with Top Alumni Earnings

College is an investment in the future. So what does that future look like for alumni? These colleges turned out the highest-paid alumni, based on their salaries ten years after graduation. We've also compared those alumni earnings with the national average, to give aspiring students a better idea where their income might fall after graduation.

Annual
Median Earnings
10 Years
After Entering
College

Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
Michigan Alumni Salaries vs. National Average
MICHIGAN $37,625 Annual Median Earnings
10 Years After Entering College		 $42,759

Source: College Scorecard
Note: Rankings/data represent 4-year public and private nonprofit schools only.

Colleges in Michigan With Least Alumni Debt

College affordability and how much alumni make years after graduation, are both aspects that matter. Another consideration is the amount of debt students might carry when their studies are over. These colleges have the lowest student debt among their alumni. Students can also see how that debt looks next to the national average of all colleges and universities.

Median
Federal Student
Loan Debt After
Graduation

Only for undergraduates who completed college; does not include Parent-PLUS loans.
Michigan College Grad Debt Vs. National Average
MICHIGAN $24,853 Median Federal Student
Loan Debt After Graduation		 $23,145

Source: College Scorecard
Note: Rankings/data represent 4-year public and private nonprofit schools only.

Michigan Cost of Living: College Expenses Beyond Tuition

In most categories, the cost of living in Michigan falls just at or below the national average. An exception to this is housing, which is decidedly cheaper than the national average. That's excellent news for college students who will be paying rent or a mortgage on top of tuition. According to a quarterly review of all states by the Missouri Economic Research and Information Center, Michigan ranks 13th for the lowest cost of living in the nation. To learn more about where Michigan falls in the cost of living debate, check out the following table that drills deeper into the five largest metro areas of Michigan,

area composite index housing groceries utilities transportation health care misc.
Statewide Average 93% 84% 98% 97% 100% 101% 94%
Ann Arbor 105% 117% 110% 94% 98% 125% 95%
Benton Harbor 91% 78% 99% 100% 101% 95% 92%
Detroit 95% 90% 89% 105% 104% 96% 95%
Grand Rapids 91% 81% 91% 91% 102% 93% 97%
Kalamazoo 84% 67% 83% 99% 95% 95% 88%

Source: The Council for Community and Economic Research

Michigan College Accreditation

Though there are several factors that play into which college a student might choose, there is one that students should see as non-negotiable, and that is accreditation. Accreditation means that a school has been reviewed by an independent accrediting body and found to meet the standards of a quality education.

Accreditation is vitally important for several reasons. Accreditation equals a standard of quality that is considered necessary for most professions; attending a school that does not meet this standard can mean sub-par learning, which can come back to haunt a student when they get out into the workforce. In fact, many employers will not accept a degree from a college that has not gained accreditation. In terms of financial aid, only accredited schools get the best benefits from the federal government; that means students who choose to attend a college that is not accredited can expect to pay much more.

Many colleges in Michigan seek accreditation through the Higher Learning Commission, which is a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools In addition to regional accreditation of a school as a whole, there is also programmatic accreditation through other entities. Here are a few examples:

Popular College Cities in Michigan

Ann Arbor

Lovely Ann Arbor is home to five universities and one bustling community college. In 2016, NerdWallet named Ann Arbor one of the best cities for women in the workforce, and Forbes named it one of the top 20 happiest cities to work in. Many other claims to fame abound, leading to high hopes for potential students who want to attend the fine institutions of higher learning in the area.

College Name School Type Annual Net Price Annual Median Earnings
10 Years After College

Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
Ann ArborUniversity of Michigan Public $16,287 $57,900
Founded in 1817 and moved to Ann Arbor in 1837, the University now includes 19 Colleges, including schools of medicine, dentistry, pharmacy and law. Over 43,000 students currently attend the university, served by over 7,000 faculty members. The most popular degrees include business, psychology, economics, political science, biopsychology, cognition and neuroscience.
Ann ArborWashtenaw Community College Public $6,183 $27,200
Serving southeast Michigan, WCC emphasizes convenience for all students with night, weekend and online classes. Over 18,000 students register for classes each year, thousands more enroll in economic and development classes, and the average class size is only 23 students. The open-door admissions policy has been in place for over 40 years.
Ann ArborConcordia University Ann Arbor Private not-for-profit $18,611 $39,000
This private, liberal arts university was founded by Lutherans in 1963 as a junior college; today the undergraduate program offers over 50 majors and 50 minors, with degrees in education, business, the arts, the sciences, communication and church work. Accelerated and graduate degrees are also available. The school is growing fast, with total enrollment up by 35 percent between 2013 and 2016.
Grand Rapids

Grand Rapids defines itself as a "college town" for good reason: at least 15 institutions of higher learning serve tens of thousands of students in the metro area. In addition, those who graduate from those schools and choose to stay in the area will be happy to learn that Grand Rapids is one of the U.S. cities leading the current economic recovery. From large universities to tiny religious colleges, Grand Rapids offers a wealth of education to choose from on the way to an exciting career.

College Name School Type Annual Net Price Annual Median Earnings
10 Years After College

Only includes former students who received federal financial aid.
Grand RapidsCalvin College Private not-for-profit $23,876 $40,900
This Christian liberal arts college sits on 400 bucolic acres and serves about 4,000 students. Those students can choose from over 100 majors, minors and programs; education, engineering and business are among the top choices. Founded in 1876, Calvin College boasts 99% of all graduates employed or in graduate school, over 50 percent of the student body involved in intramurals, and a student/faculty ratio of 13:1.
Grand RapidsDavenport University Private not-for-profit $17,421 $29,900
Founded in 1866, this private non-profit university serves nearly 9,000 students in more than 50 undergraduate and graduate programs. Campuses are spread across the state, and there is a strong online presence as well. The school offers Colleges of Business, Technology, Health Professions, Urban Education and Arts and Sciences, reaching out to students who have a wide range of interests and professional goals.
Grand RapidsGrand Rapids Community College Public $4,709 $28,200
Serving almost 30,000 students, the state-of-the-art learning spaces at GRCC are tailored to those seeking liberal arts education, occupational courses, adult education or skilled training. One in three high school students in Kent County choose to begin their education at GRCC, and each year over 5,000 transfer to four-year colleges. An intimate class size of 22.9 students ensures each person receives appropriate attention from the highly-trained faculty.

Source: College Scorecard

Michigan College Resources

Students who are interested in attending Michigan colleges can find a great deal of information through resources specifically tailored for Michigan students. Here are some of the best.

Michigan Association of State Universities

This is the coordinating board for the state's 15 public universities. It is very politically active, seeking legislation that will benefit the member colleges.

Michigan College Access Network

The mission of MCAN is to increase college readiness, participation and completion, with a special emphasis placed on low-income students, first-generation college students and students of color.

Michigan Colleges Alliance

Founded in 1949, this alliance is comprised of 15 independent colleges and universities throughout the state. The organization works to engage students, prepare them for employment and encourage them to stay in the state after graduation.

Michigan Education Savings Program

This important savings program offers numerous fund options to help students pay their way through college. Account holders can use the website to make important decisions on investments in the fund.

Midwestern Higher Education Compact

The MHEC aims to enhance affordability of member colleges, improve productivity and provide greater connectivity between higher education and the workforce. Michigan has been a state member since 1990.

Michigan Independent Colleges and Universities

Representing not-for-profit institutions, the organization serves its member institutions through advocacy, public policy development and government relations.

Michigan Transfer Network

This network allows students, advisors and educators to view transfer course equivalencies. Detailed information on the state transfer agreement can also be found here.

MI Student Aid

The Student Financial Services Bureau, a part of the Michigan Department of Treasury, provides a wealth of information for students and parents on the financial aid options available for higher education.

Pure Michigan Talent Connect

College or trade school graduates can turn to this comprehensive site to learn about exciting careers in the state, as well as open job opportunities.