Best Colleges in Michigan (2023 Rankings)

If you're curious about the best colleges in Michigan this year, look no further than this list! In no particular order, we've curated a list of Michigan colleges worth looking into. 

These schools are making waves for their top-notch education, great programs, and all-around awesome campus experiences.

University of Michigan-Ann Arbor

University of Michigan - Ann Arbor, commonly referred to as UMich or simply Michigan, is a four-year college renowned for its academic excellence, research contributions, and strong emphasis on interdisciplinary studies. It has one of the top college rankings in the nation, currently coming in at No. 24.

UMich, located in Ann Arbor, Michigan, is one of the largest public research universities in the United States, with an enrollment of around 31,000 undergraduate students. It's also one of the oldest American public universities. Its traditions, such as the annual "Hash Bash" event and the iconic Michigan Marching Band, contribute to a unique campus culture.

UMich offers a wide range of bachelor's degree programs, including Computer and Information Sciences, Economics, Behavioral Neuroscience, Mechanical Engineering, and Experimental Psychology. 

UMich's acceptance rate varies depending on the specific program and level of study, but it's generally competitive. The overall undergraduate acceptance rate is around 26%. The 4-year graduation rate is approximately 81%, and the 6-year graduation rate is around 93%. Approximately 70% of all in-state UM undergraduate students receive some form of financial aid.

Michigan State University

Michigan State University (MSU) is well-regarded for its strong emphasis on agriculture, engineering, and natural resources, earning it a reputation as a leading institution in these fields. It's also known for its research contributions, especially in areas like environmental science and sustainable agriculture. 

MSU is a large public research university in East Lansing, Michigan, with an enrollment of around 38,000 undergraduate students and a student-to-faculty ratio of about 16:1.

MSU is a member of the Big Ten Conference, known for its strong athletics programs. The university's sports teams, especially its basketball and football programs, have a dedicated fan base and contribute to a vibrant campus culture.

Michigan Technological University

Michigan Technological University, often referred to as Michigan Tech, is known for its strong focus on engineering, technology, and natural sciences. It has a reputation for producing graduates who excel in fields such as mechanical engineering, computer science, and environmental engineering. Michigan Tech is also known for its hands-on approach to learning.

Michigan Tech is a medium-sized public research university in Houghton, Michigan, which is situated in the Upper Peninsula. The location provides unique access to outdoor recreational activities due to its proximity to the Great Lakes. The surrounding landscape and ecosystems also offer a living laboratory for various studies.

The university has an undergraduate enrollment of around 5,600 students and maintains a student-to-faculty ratio of about 13:1. 

Kalamazoo College

Kalamazoo College, often referred to as "K College," is known for its rigorous liberal arts education, emphasis on experiential learning, and the K-Plan, which offers students the opportunity to customize their academic path with real-world experiences such as internships, study abroad, and research.

Located in Kalamazoo, Michigan, K College is a small private liberal arts college with an enrollment of around 1,400 undergraduate students and a low student-to-faculty ratio of 11:1.

Unlike many colleges on this list, Kalamazoo College does not have traditional Greek life organizations. Instead, it fosters a close-knit campus community through other avenues of social engagement.

Kalamazoo College's acceptance rate is currently 74%. The 4-year graduation rate is 72%, and the 6-year graduation rate is about 79%.

Hope College

Hope College, a small private liberal arts college with an undergraduate enrollment of around 3,000 students, is known for its strong commitment to liberal arts education, Christian values, and a close-knit campus community. 

The Van Raalte Institute at Hope College researches and preserves the history of Dutch immigration to the United States, particularly in the Holland, Michigan, area where the university is located. 

Hope College is affiliated with the Reformed Church in America, and its Christian values and identity are an integral part of campus life. This affiliation often influences the college's mission, community, and approach to education.

Calvin University

Calvin University is a medium-sized private Christian liberal arts university in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

Calvin University is affiliated with the Christian Reformed Church in North America (CRCNA) and is grounded in Reformed Christian theology. This religious foundation influences the university's mission, values, and approach to education.

With an enrollment of around 3,100 students, Calvin University maintains a student-to-faculty ratio of about 12:1. The university's acceptance rate is 73%. The 4-year graduation rate is 64%, and the 6-year graduation rate is 75%.

Calvin University does not have traditional Greek life organizations. Instead, it promotes a sense of community and engagement through academic and faith-based groups.

Grand Valley State University

Grand Valley State University (GVSU) is a large public university with an enrollment of around 20,000 undergraduate students. It's located in Allendale, Michigan, with its main campus situated just outside of Grand Rapids. The university also has a campus in downtown Grand Rapids.

GVSU, with its student-to-faculty ratio of about 16:1, offers a diverse array of degree programs. Notable programs include Marketing, Finance, Biomedical Sciences and Molecular Medicine.

The "Laker Effect'' is a GSVU concept that highlights the university's impact on individuals, community, and society. GVSU aims to prepare students to make positive contributions and lead meaningful lives beyond graduation.

GVSU's acceptance rate is 88%, the 4-year graduation rate is 41%, and the 6-year graduation rate is 69%.

Wayne State University

Wayne State University is a large public research university with an enrollment of around 17,000 undergraduate students. Located in the heart of Detroit, Wayne State offers students unique opportunities to engage with the city's arts, culture, and industry.

For those who want to act, perform, or create, the College of Fine, Performing, and Communication Arts offers a range of programs in visual arts, music, theater, and communication.

Wayne State offers a wide range of degree programs, with their most popular majors including Psychology, Public Health, International Business/Trade/Commerce, and Biology/Biological Sciences. The university has a student-to-faculty ratio of about 15:1 and its acceptance rate is 69%.

Central Michigan University

Located in Mount Pleasant, Michigan, Central Michigan University (CMU) is a moderately-sized public research university with an undergraduate student body of around 13,000. 

CMU has a College of Medicine that aims to address physician shortages in underserved regions. The college focuses on training doctors who are dedicated to serving communities in Michigan and beyond.

Other notable degrees include Public Relations, Event Management, Early Childhood Education, Public Health Education, and Engineering. 

University of Detroit Mercy

University of Detroit Mercy (UDM) is a Catholic university known for its strong emphasis on service, social justice, and community engagement. It is a moderately-sized private university with an enrollment of around 2,600 full-time undergraduate students located in Detroit, Michigan.

UDM is known for its affiliation with both the Society of Jesus (Jesuits) and the Religious Sisters of Mercy.

The university is notable for its strong health professions programs, particularly in dentistry and nursing. The School of Dentistry and the McAuley School of Nursing offer comprehensive training and practical experience for students pursuing careers in these fields. 

The university's location near the automobile industry's hub has historically led to collaborations and opportunities in fields like automotive engineering and design.

Honorable mentions

• Andrews University. Notable programs include Health sciences, Architecture, Engineering, and Business. The undergraduate population is around 2,500.
• Lawrence Technological University. Notable programs include Engineering, Architecture, Business, and Design. The undergraduate population is around 3,000.
• Albion College. Notable programs include Economics and Management, Biology, and Psychology. The undergraduate population is around 1,400.
• Alma College. Notable programs include Biology, Business Administration, and Education. The undergraduate population is around 1,400.
• Adrian College. Notable programs include Exercise Science, Business Administration, and Criminal Justice. The undergraduate population is around 1,600.
• Kettering University. Notable programs include Engineering, Computer Science, and Business. The undergraduate population is around 2,000.
• Oakland University. Notable programs include Nursing, Engineering, and Business administration. The undergraduate population is around 16,000.
• Eastern Michigan University. Notable programs include Education, Health Sciences, and Business. The undergraduate population is around 15,000.
• Western Michigan University. Notable programs include Aviation, Engineering, Business, and Health Sciences. The undergraduate population is around 18,000.
• Aquinas College. Notable programs include Nursing, Biology, and Education. The undergraduate population is around 1,700.

Explore College Rover for personalized guidance toward a brighter future

In a nutshell, Michigan boasts a diverse array of top colleges, each with its unique strengths and offerings. If you're eager to explore these Michigan colleges and are interested in spending the next four years in Berrien Springs, Flint, Southfield, Spring Arbor, and beyond, College Rover is your go-to companion for in-depth research and personalized guidance.

Get ready to say goodbye to high school and discover your best-fit college experience with College Rover today!

College Rover gets the majority of its data directly from the U.S. Department of Education (DOE). The DOE publishing schedule "lags" the most current data which some colleges post on their official websites. This may cause there to be a difference in the data you see on College Rover and an individual college website. College Rover's website is updated as the DOE data becomes available and is configured for the College Rover website.