Top Universities in Michigan for 2025: Courses, Rankings, and Tuition Fees
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Thinking about studying in Michigan? Whether you’re aiming for a world-class research university like the University of Michigan or looking for a tech-driven campus like Michigan Tech, this state has something for everyone. From the buzzing college town of Ann Arbor to the snowy charm of Houghton, Michigan’s universities blend academic excellence with real-world learning, exciting student life, and welcoming communities. And the best part? You get top-tier education without breaking the bank. Ready to explore your future campus?
University of Michigan
If you’re looking for a university that combines academic excellence with campus energy, the University of Michigan (U-M) in Ann Arbor might be your perfect match. Founded way back in 1817, U-M has grown into one of the most respected public universities in the U.S.—and the world. With over 51,000 students and nearly 9,000 international students from 130+ countries, the vibe here is diverse, inclusive, and full of global energy. U-M consistently ranks among the top universities (#21 in the U.S. and #44 globally), and it’s well-known for programs in business, engineering, medicine, law, and the arts.
And let’s not forget “The Big House,” one of the biggest football stadiums in the country—it’s part of what makes student life here unforgettable. Whether you’re diving into world-changing research, building connections through one of the largest alumni networks on the planet, or just enjoying life in Ann Arbor, U-M sets the stage for a fantastic student experience. Following are the key details of University of Michigan:
| Category | Details |
| Location | Ann Arbor, Michigan |
| Established | 1817 |
| Type | Public Research University (R1), AAU Member |
| QS World Ranking 2025 | #44 |
| U.S. News Ranking 2025 | #21 in the U.S. |
| Times Higher Ed Ranking | #23 in the U.S., #22 globally |
| Total Students | ~51,225 |
| Undergraduates | ~32,695 |
| Graduate & Professional Students | ~18,530 |
| International Students | ~8,800+ from 130+ countries |
| Student-Faculty Ratio | 15:1 |
| Programs Offered | 280+ undergrad, 200+ grad & professional |
| Popular Majors | Computer Science, Business, Mechanical Engineering, Psychology, Public Policy |
| In-State Tuition & Fees | ~$18,848/year |
| Out-of-State Tuition & Fees | ~$63,081/year |
| SAT Range (Middle 50%) | 1340–1530 |
| ACT Range (Middle 50%) | 31–34 |
| Acceptance Rate | ~18% |
| Average Starting Salary | ~$64,600/year |
| Research Budget | ~$1.86 billion annually |
| Alumni Network | 660,000+ worldwide |
| Campus Size | 3,207 acres |
| Athletics | NCAA Division I – Big Ten Conference |
| Website | www.umich.edu |
Michigan State University
Michigan State University (MSU), located in East Lansing, is one of the largest public universities in the country. Founded in 1855 as the nation’s first land-grant university, MSU has a proud tradition of combining education, research, and community service. Today, it’s home to more than 52,000 students and offers an energetic campus experience that brings together students from over 130 countries.
MSU ranks #63 among National Universities in the U.S. News & World Report 2025 and holds a global rank of #152 in the QS World University Rankings 2025. The university is made up of 17 degree-granting colleges and offers over 400 academic programs—so whether you’re interested in business, agriculture, journalism, or environmental science, there’s something here for you. Following are the key details of Michigan State University:
| Category | Details |
| Location | East Lansing, Michigan |
| Established | 1855 |
| University Type | Public Research University (R1), Land-Grant Institution |
| QS World Ranking 2025 | #152 globally |
| U.S. News National Ranking 2025 | #63 in the U.S. |
| Total Enrollment | ~52,300 students |
| Undergraduate Students | ~38,000 |
| Graduate & Professional Students | ~14,000 |
| International Students | ~4,900+ from 130+ countries |
| Student-to-Faculty Ratio | 16:1 |
| Academic Programs Offered | 400+ undergraduate and graduate programs |
| Top Colleges | College of Education, Eli Broad College of Business, College of Engineering, College of Agriculture & Natural Resources, College of Social Science |
| Popular Majors | Business, Mechanical Engineering, Psychology, Education, Communication, Environmental Science |
| In-State Tuition & Fees | ~$16,526 per year |
| Out-of-State Tuition & Fees | ~$43,910 per year |
| SAT Range (Middle 50%) | 1110–1310 |
| ACT Range (Middle 50%) | 23–29 |
| Acceptance Rate | ~83% |
| Average Starting Salary | ~$50,000/year |
| Campus Size | 5,200 acres (one of the largest in the U.S.) |
| Athletics | NCAA Division I – Big Ten Conference |
| Alumni Network | 500,000+ alumni across the globe |
| Notable Alumni | Magic Johnson (NBA star), James Caan (actor), Sam Raimi (film director) |
| Official Website | www.msu.edu |
Wayne State University
Looking for a university where you can study in the heart of a big city and still get personal support? That’s what Wayne State University (WSU) in Detroit is all about. Founded way back in 1868, WSU mixes strong academics with real-world experience—right where it matters most. With over 26,000 students, including more than 1,500 international students from 80+ countries, WSU is a truly diverse and welcoming place to study.
WSU is ranked among the top 110 universities in the U.S. (U.S. News 2025) and falls in the #791–800 bracket in the QS World Rankings 2025. It’s especially known for its outstanding School of Medicine, Engineering programs, and the Mike Ilitch School of Business. Whether you’re interested in healthcare, business, technology, or social sciences—WSU offers a practical, career-focused education in an exciting city setting. Following are the key details of Wayne State University:
| Category | Details |
| Location | Detroit, Michigan |
| Founded | 1868 |
| QS World Ranking (2025) | #791–800 |
| U.S. News Ranking (2025) | #110 |
| Total Students | ~26,251 |
| Undergraduates | ~15,000 |
| Grad & Professional Students | ~11,000 |
| International Students | ~1,500+ from 80+ countries |
| Student-to-Faculty Ratio | 14:1 |
| Academic Programs | 350+ degrees (undergrad + grad) |
| Top Colleges | School of Medicine, College of Engineering, Ilitch School of Business, College of Liberal Arts & Sciences |
| Popular Majors | Nursing, Business, Psychology, Engineering, Criminal Justice, Public Health |
| In-State Tuition & Fees | ~$15,464/year |
| Out-of-State Tuition & Fees | ~$52,348/year |
| SAT Range (Middle 50%) | 1040–1250 |
| ACT Range (Middle 50%) | 21–27 |
| Acceptance Rate | ~75% |
| Average Starting Salary | ~$50,183/year |
| Campus Size | 203 acres (urban, downtown Detroit) |
| Athletics | NCAA Division II – GLIAC Conference |
| Alumni Network | 290,000+ alumni around the world |
| Famous Alumni | Casey Kasem (radio host), Crystal Reed (actress), Keith Ellison (Attorney General) |
| Website | www.wayne.edu |
Central Michigan University
If you’re looking for a university that combines strong academics, affordability, and a close-knit student experience—Central Michigan University (CMU) is worth checking out. Located in Mount Pleasant, CMU was founded in 1892 and has grown into one of Michigan’s top public research universities. It’s known for its career-focused programs, supportive professors, and welcoming community feel.
With around 17,000 students on campus, CMU offers more than 200-degree programs across areas like business, education, health professions, and liberal arts. Plus, it has strong partnerships with schools, hospitals, and businesses across Michigan, giving students access to internships and practical training. CMU is also home to a vibrant student life scene with over 300 student organizations, NCAA Division I sports, and events happening year-round. Following are the key details of Central Michigan University:
| Category | Details |
| Location | Mount Pleasant, Michigan |
| Established | 1892 |
| U.S. News National Ranking (2025) | #260 |
| Total Enrollment | ~17,311 students |
| Undergraduate Students | ~12,600 |
| Graduate & Doctoral Students | ~4,700 |
| International Students | ~1,600+ from 50+ countries |
| Student-to-Faculty Ratio | 20:1 |
| Academic Programs | 200+ undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees |
| Top Colleges | College of Business Administration, College of Education & Human Services, College of Health Professions, College of Science & Engineering |
| Popular Majors | Business Administration, Nursing, Psychology, Education, Communication, Information Systems |
| In-State Tuition & Fees | ~$14,760/year |
| Out-of-State Tuition & Fees | ~$14,760/year (flat rate for all U.S. students) |
| SAT Range (Middle 50%) | 1000–1200 |
| ACT Range (Middle 50%) | 20–26 |
| Acceptance Rate | ~70% |
| Average Starting Salary (UG Graduates) | ~$42,000/year |
| Career Support | CMU Career Development Center, internships, career fairs, job coaching |
| Campus Size | 480 acres |
| Student Organizations | 300+ student clubs, intramural sports, Greek life |
| Athletics | NCAA Division I – Mid-American Conference (MAC) |
| Alumni Network | 235,000+ alumni worldwide |
| Official Website | www.cmich.edu |
Michigan Technological University
Michigan Technological University—often called Michigan Tech—is a top pick for students who are passionate about engineering, science, and technology. Located in the scenic city of Houghton in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, this public research university was founded in 1885 and is known for turning problem-solvers into industry leaders. With around 7,000 students and a tight-knit, supportive atmosphere, Michigan Tech offers a personal and practical learning experience.
The university has a strong focus on hands-on education and research, so students don’t just learn from textbooks—they build, test, and innovate from day one. Michigan Tech consistently ranks among the top public universities in the country. It holds the #148 spot in the U.S. News 2025 rankings and is nationally known for its excellence in STEM fields like mechanical engineering, computer science, and environmental studies. Following are the key details of Michigan Technological University:
| Category | Details |
| Location | Houghton, Michigan (Upper Peninsula) |
| Established | 1885 |
| U.S. News National Ranking (2025) | #148 |
| Total Enrollment | ~7,073 students |
| Undergraduate Students | ~5,900 |
| Graduate Students | ~1,100 |
| International Students | ~1,000+ from 60+ countries |
| Student-to-Faculty Ratio | 13:1 |
| Academic Programs | 120+ undergraduate and graduate degree programs |
| Top Colleges | College of Engineering, College of Sciences and Arts, School of Business and Economics, College of Computing |
| Popular Majors | Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Civil & Environmental Engineering, Business Analytics |
| In-State Tuition & Fees | ~$18,796/year |
| Out-of-State Tuition & Fees | ~$42,662/year |
| SAT Range (Middle 50%) | 1170–1370 |
| ACT Range (Middle 50%) | 25–30 |
| Acceptance Rate | ~74% |
| Average Starting Salary (UG Graduates) | ~$60,000/year |
| Top Recruiters | Ford, General Motors, NASA, Intel, Boeing, Google |
| Campus Size | 925 acres |
| Student Life | 240+ clubs and organizations, Winter Carnival, Huskies Athletics |
| Athletics | NCAA Division II – Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (GLIAC) |
| Alumni Network | 70,000+ graduates around the world |
| Official Website | www.mtu.edu |
Western Michigan University
Western Michigan University (WMU), located in the energetic city of Kalamazoo, is a public research university. Established in 1903, WMU has built a reputation for strong programs in business, engineering, aviation, health sciences, and the arts. Whether you’re aiming to fly planes, run companies, or design cutting-edge solutions—WMU is a place that turns your ambitions into reality.
With around 21,000 students and over 1,400 international learners from 90+ countries, WMU creates a welcoming and culturally rich environment. The university offers more than 250 degree programs and has a strong focus on experiential learning through internships, co-ops, research, and study abroad. WMU is also one of the few U.S. universities with a top-ranked aviation flight science program. Following are the key details of Western Michigan University:
| Category | Details |
| Location | Kalamazoo, Michigan |
| Established | 1903 |
| U.S. News National Ranking (2025) | #263 |
| Total Enrollment | ~21,034 students |
| Undergraduate Students | ~16,000 |
| Graduate Students | ~5,000 |
| International Students | ~1,400+ from 90+ countries |
| Student-to-Faculty Ratio | 16:1 |
| Academic Programs Offered | 250+ undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs |
| Top Colleges | Haworth College of Business, College of Engineering & Applied Sciences, College of Aviation, College of Fine Arts, College of Health and Human Services |
| Popular Majors | Business Administration, Aviation Flight Science, Mechanical Engineering, Psychology, Biomedical Sciences, Music Theatre |
| In-State Tuition & Fees | ~$15,252/year |
| Out-of-State Tuition & Fees | ~$19,034/year |
| SAT Range (Middle 50%) | 1050–1230 |
| ACT Range (Middle 50%) | 21–27 |
| Acceptance Rate | ~80% |
| Average Starting Salary (UG Graduates) | ~$45,000/year |
| Top Recruiters | General Motors, Pfizer, Stryker, Whirlpool, Kellogg’s |
| Campus Size | 1,200 acres |
| Student Life | 300+ student clubs, Greek life, cultural orgs, theatre, and music festivals |
| Athletics | NCAA Division I – Mid-American Conference (MAC) |
| Alumni Network | 250,000+ alumni worldwide |
| Official Website | www.wmich.edu |
Conclusion
Michigan isn’t just a great place to study—it’s a place to grow, explore, and launch your career. Whether you see yourself solving big challenges at MSU, diving into healthcare at Wayne State, or flying high with WMU’s aviation program, there’s a perfect campus waiting for you. Once you’ve chosen your university, don’t forget to sort out your housing too. University Living can help you find safe, comfy, and student-friendly accommodation near all major universities in Michigan—so you can focus on your studies while we handle the rest!
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the best university in Michigan for international students in 2025?
The University of Michigan (U-M) in Ann Arbor is widely considered the top choice for international students in Michigan. With over 8,800 students from 130+ countries, U-M combines world-class academics, a global alumni network, and a welcoming community. It ranks #21 nationally and #44 globally in 2025, offering top programs in business, engineering, medicine, and public policy.
How much does it cost to study at a top Michigan university in 2025?
Tuition fees in Michigan vary depending on the university and your residency status. For in-state students, tuition typically ranges from $14,000 to $19,000 per year. Out-of-state students pay more, especially at top schools like the University of Michigan, which charges around $63,000 annually. Many universities like Central Michigan and Western Michigan offer flat rates or more affordable options for out-of-state students.
What are the most popular majors at Michigan universities in 2025?
Some of the most in-demand majors across Michigan universities include Business Administration, Engineering, Computer Science, Nursing, Psychology, and Environmental Science. Universities like Michigan Tech are STEM-focused, while schools like MSU and CMU offer strong programs in education, health sciences, and communication.
Is Michigan a good place for students to live and study in 2025?
Absolutely! Michigan offers a great mix of academic excellence, cultural diversity, and affordable living. Cities like Ann Arbor, East Lansing, and Kalamazoo are known for their vibrant student life, while places like Houghton provide a peaceful environment for focused study. Students also enjoy internships, co-ops, and real-world experiences thanks to Michigan’s strong ties with industries like tech, healthcare, automotive, and business.
Are there affordable universities in Michigan for out-of-state students?
Yes, universities like Central Michigan University and Western Michigan University offer competitive tuition rates—even for out-of-state students. For example, CMU charges the same tuition for both in-state and out-of-state U.S. students, making it a budget-friendly choice without compromising academic quality.
What is the acceptance rate at Michigan universities in 2025?
Acceptance rates vary by university. Top schools like the University of Michigan are highly selective, admitting around 18% of applicants. Michigan State University is more accessible with an acceptance rate of about 83%, while schools like Central Michigan and Western Michigan accept between 70% and 80% of applicants, making them more inclusive options.
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