Acceptance Rate
91%
Avg. SAT
1120
75th percentile
“Ferris State University blends hands-on learning with small-town charm in the heart of Michigan.”
Big Rapids, MI
Location
Town
Campus Setting
Nestled in Big Rapids, Michigan, Ferris State University stands out as a public institution with a knack for practical, career-focused education. Founded in 1884 by Woodbridge Nathan Ferris, a former Michigan governor and U.S. Senator, the university began as the Big Rapids Industrial School to train students for real-world trades. Over the decades, it evolved into a comprehensive university, yet it retains a grounded, no-nonsense approach that prioritizes getting students ready for the workforce over chasing abstract prestige. The surrounding area, a quiet town of about 10,000 people along the Muskegon River, offers a peaceful backdrop with outdoor perks like hiking and kayaking, but it’s far from the bustle of big cities.
If you’re a student who craves clear direction, thrives on applied learning, and appreciates a tight-knit community, Ferris might feel like home. You’ll find a campus where people know each other, and the slower pace lets you focus on your goals without urban distractions. However, if you’re seeking a fast-paced social scene or a sprawling metropolitan vibe, the remote location—about an hour from Grand Rapids—can feel isolating, and the harsh Michigan winters might test your patience.
Ferris draws a mix of students, many from Michigan and nearby states, who value affordability and a straightforward path to a career. It’s not a place for those chasing intense academic theory or a highly competitive atmosphere; instead, it’s built for doers who want skills they can use right after graduation. The tradeoff of its location means you’re trading urban excitement for a focused, less distracting environment, though some might find the small-town life too quiet for their taste.
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Admissions
Acceptance Rate
Test Policy
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Average GPA
Application Fee
Academics
Student-Faculty Ratio
Programs Offered
Full-Time Faculty
Women Faculty
Research Spending
Degree Levels Offered
Ferris State University carves out a reputation for programs that emphasize practical, hands-on training over theoretical deep dives. You’ll notice this especially in standout areas like pharmacy, where Ferris houses one of the oldest programs in the nation, and in fields like automotive engineering technology, criminal justice, and hospitality management, which have strong industry ties. Classes often integrate real-world projects—think designing a marketing campaign or troubleshooting machinery—preparing you for jobs from day one. The university also offers unique niche programs, such as optometry and industrial technology, that aren’t as common at other public schools.
In the classroom, you can expect a mix of lecture halls and smaller, interactive settings, though some introductory courses might feel crowded due to the university’s sizable undergraduate population. Faculty tend to focus on teaching over research, so you’re likely to get approachable professors who prioritize student success, but access to cutting-edge academic exploration might be limited compared to larger research universities. If you’re in a high-demand program like pharmacy, be prepared for a rigorous, structured path that demands commitment, and some students find the advising process less personalized than they’d hoped.
Student Body
Total Enrollment
8,991 undergrad • 968 grad
Undergraduate
Graduate
International
White
74%
Black / African American
9%
Hispanic / Latino
6%
Asian
2%
Other / Multi-racial
9%
Campus Life
Campus Setting
Big Rapids, MI
Varsity Athletics
NCAA Athletics
Campus life at Ferris State revolves around a down-to-earth, community-driven vibe where students often balance academics with a strong sense of camaraderie. You’ll find plenty of ways to connect through over 200 student organizations, from professional clubs tied to your major to recreational sports like hockey, which has a passionate following here. Traditions like the annual Bulldog Pride Day bring everyone together to celebrate school spirit with events and service projects, while the cold Michigan winters often push social life indoors to dorm lounges or local hangouts. Housing is plentiful for first-year students, with options like suite-style residences, though upperclassmen sometimes struggle to secure on-campus spots and end up renting in Big Rapids.
Socially, Ferris isn’t a high-energy party hub; the scene leans more toward casual gatherings or events hosted by Greek life, which plays a visible but not dominant role. The small-town setting means entertainment often comes from campus activities or weekend road trips to Grand Rapids, and the long, snowy winters can dampen outdoor plans for months. Cost of living around Big Rapids is relatively affordable compared to urban areas, but the lack of nearby amenities might leave you wishing for more dining or shopping options close by.
Housing
On-Campus Housing
Housing Capacity
Meal Plan Available
Average Room & Board
Athletics
Athletic Association
Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference
ROTC & Veteran Support
Army
Yes
Navy
No
Air Force
No
Veteran’s Programs Available
Credit for military training
Yes
Dedicated point of contact for veteran support services
Yes
Recognized student veteran organization
Yes
Member of DoD Voluntary Educational Partnership MOU
Yes
Cost & Aid
In-State Tuition
Out-of-State Tuition
Room & Board
Estimated Cost
Financial Aid
Students Receiving Aid
Receiving Pell Grants
Average Grant
Average Federal Loan
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Outcomes & Earnings
Retention Rate
78%
4 Years Graduation Rate
52%
6 Years Graduation Rate
63%
Median 10-Year Earnings
$54,735
78% of first-time, full-time students complete their freshman year at Ferris State University and return in the fall. 52% of first-time, full-time students graduate in 4 years, and 63% graduate within 6 years.
Graduation Rate
4-year grads
52%
4-5 years
11%
6-8 years
1%
Non-grad
36%
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Key Statistics
Type
Public
Tuition
$13,608
Acceptance
91%
Undergrads
8,991
4-Year Grad Rate
52%
Endowment
$120M
Big Rapids, MI 49307-2251
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