Public Institution

Ferris State University — Big Rapids, Michigan

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Annual Tuition $13,630

Estimated Out-of-Pocket

Acceptance 80.6%

Open Admission

Enrollment 8,087

Active Students

Avg. Salary $54,735

After 10 Years

Institutional Profile

Location Big Rapids, Michigan
Institution type Public
Accreditation Higher Learning Commission
Founded 12/1/1965

Academic Mission & Environment

"Ferris State University stands as a pillar of higher education in Big Rapids, providing a robust academic foundation for 8,087 students. The institution is recognized for its dedication to career-ready outcomes and community impact."

Campus Setting Urban Campus
Student Focus High Employment ROI

What programs does Ferris State University offer?

Discover the most popular degrees and fields of study at Ferris State University. These programs represent the institution's primary areas of academic focus and professional preparation.

Business & Marketing
18.2%

Enrollment Share

Health Professions
16.5%

Enrollment Share

Engineering Tech
15.8%

Enrollment Share

Security & Law Enforcement
8.5%

Enrollment Share

Education
4.2%

Enrollment Share

Visual & Performing Arts
4.1%

Enrollment Share

Institutional Choice

Best Business & Marketing College

Positioned as a premier hub for future executives...

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Institutional Choice

Best Health Professions College

Ranked as a top destination for healthcare education...

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Institutional Choice

Best Engineering Tech College

The Engineering Tech program at Ferris State University provides a comprehensive education...

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Institutional Choice

Best Security & Law Enforcement College

The Security & Law Enforcement program provides a comprehensive education...

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Institutional Choice

Best Education College

We develop educators who are passionate about transforming classrooms...

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Institutional Choice

Best Visual & Performing Arts College

The Visual & Performing Arts program at Ferris State University provides a comprehensive education...

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What is the acceptance rate at Ferris State University?

Admissions & Selectivity Dashboard — 2026

Acceptance 80.6%
Difficulty Low

Ferris State University maintains an acceptance rate of 80.6%, reflecting its status as a open admission institution. The admissions process evaluates academic potential alongside standardized testing trends to ensure a balanced student body.

Test Requirement SAT/ACT scores are considered but not required.

Student Body Composition

Men Enrollment 47.5%
Women Enrollment 52.5%

Test Score Ranges (25th - 75th Percentile)

SAT Reading 450 - 570
SAT Mathematics 440 - 550
ACT English 16 - 25
ACT Mathematics 16 - 25
Expert Insight

Competitive scores often fall within or exceed these typical 50% benchmarks for admitted students.

How much does Ferris State University cost in 2026?

In-State Tuition $13,630
Out-of-State Tuition $13,630

Financial Support Snapshot

Pell Grant Rate 33.6%
Median Student Debt $21,000

ROI Insight

With a tuition of only $13,630, graduates see a median starting salary of $54,735, making it one of the most affordable pathways in Michigan.

What salary can Ferris State University graduates expect?

Avg. Early Career Salary $54,735

10 years after entry

Graduation Rate 47.9%

Investment Analysis & ROI

Average Net Price $12,202
Median Salary (6yr) $47,339
Earnings-to-Debt Ratio Above Average
Career Stability Index High

What is student life like at Ferris State University in Big Rapids?

8,087 Students

Gender Comparison

47.5% Men
52.5% Women
Male Enrollment Female Enrollment

Retention & Enrollment

72.8%
Retention First-year
0%
Full-time Enrollment

Diversity & Ethnicity

American Indian
0.8%
Pacific Islander
0.1%
Asian
1.5%
Black
9.5%
White
74.3%
Unknown
2.6%
Hispanic
6.6%
Two or More Races
3.1%
International
1.4%

Campus Demographics

🎂
Avg. Age at Entry 23
🎓
First-Generation 35.3%
💰
Receive Pell Grant 61.8%
🎖️
Veterans 0.6%
💍
Married Students 8.7%
🔄
Retention (Part-time) 42.1%

Student Economic Background

Median Household Income $61,040
Average Family Income $54,739
Median Family Income $41,668

Faculty Profile

Faculty Gender

54.9%
45.2%
Women Men
Premium Campus Location

Explore the Big Rapids Campus Environment

Located at 1201 S State St, Ferris State University offers a strategic urban setting that connects students with the economic and cultural heart of Michigan. Use our verified map utility to plan your visit or explore nearby professional hubs.

Campus Setting Urban / Metropolitan
Access High Connectivity
Get Directions Open in Google Maps

Common Questions about Ferris State University

Is Ferris State University a good college in Big Rapids, Michigan?
Ferris State University is a recognized institution in Big Rapids with an enrollment of 8,087 students. It is accredited by Higher Learning Commission and offers a robust ROI for students in Michigan based on Department of Education data.
Is Ferris State University worth attending in 2026?
Yes, Ferris State University offers exceptional value with an average net price of $0 and median graduate earnings of $54,735. The institution's focus on professional outcomes makes it a strong investment for 2026.
How much does Ferris State University cost for Michigan residents in 2026?
For the 2026 academic year, in-state tuition at Ferris State University is approximately $13,630. In addition, out-of-state tuition is $13,630. Financial aid and Pell Grants significantly reduce this cost for most local residents.
What is the real cost of Ferris State University after financial aid and FAFSA?
The real cost of attending Ferris State University for most students is its average net price of $0. Approximately 61.8% of students receive Pell Grants and FAFSA-based aid to offset costs.
Is Ferris State University good for Business & Marketing and Health Professions programs?
Ferris State University is highly regarded for its Business & Marketing and Health Professions programs. These tracks are among the most popular, preparing students for immediate career entry.
What career can I get after attending Ferris State University?
Graduates of Ferris State University often transition into high-demand roles in fields like Business & Marketing. With a median salary of $54,735, the college provides a clear pathway to professional advancement.
What are the admission requirements for Ferris State University?
Ferris State University operates with a Open Admission policy. This typically includes a simplified application process focused on accessibility and student success regardless of past standardized test scores.
Does Ferris State University require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
No, Ferris State University follows a open admission policy for the 2026 cycle. Standardized test scores like the SAT or ACT are not required for general admission.
What salary can Ferris State University graduates expect after 10 years?
Graduates of Ferris State University earn a median salary of $54,735 after 10 years. This demonstrates long-term professional stability and growth.
Is Ferris State University a good investment compared to other MI colleges?
Ferris State University stands out as a high-value investment in Michigan. With an average net price of only $0, it offers one of the most affordable pathways to a degree and a professional career in the state.
Where is Ferris State University located and what is the campus like?
Ferris State University is located at 1201 S State St in Big Rapids, MI. The campus provides a dynamic environment serving a diverse student body of 8,087 learners.
Who typically attends Ferris State University in Big Rapids, MI?
The student body at Ferris State University is diverse and career-focused. Approximately 35.3% are first-generation students, reflecting a community of motivated, real-world learners.
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2026 Rankings: Michigan

Explore top-tier academic pathways across the state

Compare Ferris State University with other leading institutions in Michigan across various professional disciplines. Our verified data audits provide transparency on career ROI and academic quality.

N
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B
Business Administration
C
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M
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P
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E
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C
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S
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A
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M
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C
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F
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B
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M
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P
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F
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I
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I
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C
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J
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G
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C
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D
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L
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A
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E
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L
Liberal Arts
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