Head-to-Head Analysis
This analysis was generated using Azimuth's proprietary framework. Our data model transforms federal education data into actionable insights. Learn about founder Daniel Rogers, explore our research methodology, or see how we think about this data.
Updated January 2026 • Cleveland, OH & Big Rapids, MI
When students choose between Ferris State University in Big Rapids, Michigan, and Cleveland State University in Cleveland, Ohio, they're comparing two similar public universities with different cost profiles. Both serve as broad-access institutions in the Great Lakes region, focusing on practical career preparation.
The data reveals Ferris State offers a modest financial advantage through lower costs and slightly higher graduate earnings, though both schools deliver comparable value propositions for working-class families.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$21,797
federal loans
$21,000
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$16,998
borrowed by parents
$14,849
borrowed by parents
Ferris State is predominantly business-focused, with 24% of graduates earning degrees in business fields. Cleveland State has a more balanced mix: 17% Business, 10% Social Sciences, 10% Engineering.
Ferris State's largest programs include Criminal Justice (288 graduates), Business Administration (257), and Nursing (160). Cleveland State's top programs are Psychology (221), Nursing (219), and Clinical Laboratory Science (169).
These program concentrations help explain the modest earnings differences, with Ferris State's business and technical focus translating to slightly higher median outcomes.
For students prioritizing financial value, Ferris State delivers modestly better outcomes at $3,863/year less than Cleveland State. Cleveland State offers an urban campus experience in Cleveland with strong health sciences programs, making it the better choice for students drawn to those specific opportunities and city life.
The data points to Ferris State as having a slight financial advantage, but both schools serve similar populations effectively. The right choice depends on your program interests, location preferences, and whether Cleveland's urban setting or Big Rapids' college town atmosphere fits your goals better.
If cost is the primary concern, Ferris State offers the stronger value proposition.
Key Takeaway
The numbers are close, but the best school depends on your goals, values, and career aspirations.
This comparison was generated using Azimuth's proprietary ROI framework, developed by founder Daniel Rogers. Our methodology transforms federal education data into actionable insights for families.
This comparison uses Azimuth's proprietary ROI model based on U.S. Dept. of Education data. View Full Methodology.
This content is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, investment, or professional advice. Consult a qualified advisor before making any financial decisions.
College Azimuth is a private research initiative and is not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Education or Federal Student Aid.
