Students at Ferris State University consistently earn more than similar students at comparable institutions, reflecting the university's effectiveness in career preparation and workforce connections.
The combination of strong affordability and solid earnings outcomes makes Ferris particularly valuable for first-generation and Pell-eligible students seeking upward mobility.
Ferris State University delivers practical, career-focused education with outcomes that consistently exceed expectations for students from diverse backgrounds. Located in Big Rapids, Michigan, this medium-sized public university has built a reputation for turning access into opportunity, particularly for first-generation college students who make up about 35% of the student body. With roughly one-third of students receiving Pell Grants, Ferris maintains broad accessibility while still achieving strong graduation and earnings outcomes.
What sets Ferris apart is its focus on applied learning and professional preparation across fields like business administration, criminal justice, engineering technology, and health sciences. Graduates earn a median of $54,735 ten years after enrollment, with the university delivering about $5,812 in earnings beyond what similar students achieve at comparable institutions. This combination of accessibility and solid financial outcomes places Ferris in the "Mobility Engine" category—institutions that open doors widely and convert that access into real economic progress.
As a comprehensive public university with strong ties to Michigan's workforce needs, Ferris offers the practical focus of a technical college with the breadth and support systems of a traditional four-year institution. For many students, especially those seeking clear pathways to stable careers without overwhelming debt, Ferris represents an ideal balance of opportunity, affordability, and outcomes.
Ferris State University's program portfolio reflects its mission as a comprehensive institution focused on career preparation and workforce development. The university's strength lies in professional and technical programs that connect directly to regional employment opportunities, with outcomes varying significantly based on field of study and career pathway.
Chemical Engineering Technology stands out as the highest-earning program, with graduates earning $74,122 early in their careers, demonstrating the strong return on investment available in technical fields. Business Administration serves as a key economic engine for the university, combining high enrollment of 257 graduates with solid median earnings of $46,924, making it both popular and financially rewarding for students. Criminal Justice represents Ferris's largest program by enrollment with 288 graduates, leading to stable public service careers with median earnings of $39,369.
The range of outcomes—from Biology's $17,508 to Chemical Engineering Technology's $74,122—reflects the diverse pathways available at Ferris, from foundational sciences that may require additional education to immediately career-ready technical programs. This variety allows students to choose programs that match their interests, abilities, and career goals while still benefiting from the university's overall focus on practical, applied learning and strong employer connections throughout Michigan.
Ferris State University graduates achieve solid long-term earnings that reflect the institution's focus on career-ready programs. Ten years after enrollment, graduates earn a median of $54,735, with the university delivering approximately $5,812 in earnings beyond expectations compared with similar students at other institutions. This earnings advantage demonstrates Ferris's effectiveness in preparing students for the workforce and connecting them with employers who value their practical skills and training.
Program-level outcomes vary significantly based on field of study, reflecting Ferris's diverse academic portfolio. Chemical Engineering Technology leads in earnings potential, with graduates earning around $74,122 early in their careers, showcasing the strong return on investment in technical fields. Business Administration, the university's largest high-return program with 257 graduates, produces median earnings of $46,924 while serving as a key economic engine for the institution. Criminal Justice, Ferris's most popular program with 288 graduates, leads to earnings of $39,369, reflecting the stable but moderate-paying nature of public service careers. The university's program mix emphasizes practical, professional fields that connect directly to regional workforce needs, though outcomes can vary widely—from Biology graduates earning $17,508 to engineering technology students reaching well above the institutional median.
Ferris State University stands out for its strong affordability across all income levels, making quality higher education accessible to a broad range of Michigan families. Low-income students pay just $5,957 annually after aid, well below national averages and reflecting the university's commitment to serving Pell-eligible students. Middle-income families see net costs around $12,303 per year, while even higher-income students pay a reasonable $19,308 annually, demonstrating consistent value across the economic spectrum.
Debt levels remain manageable for most Ferris graduates, with typical federal student loan debt of $21,000—a reasonable amount given the university's median earnings of $54,735 ten years out. Parent PLUS borrowing averages $12,789, reflecting moderate family contributions that don't overburden households. The university's 0% federal loan default rate signals that graduates can successfully manage their debt obligations, supported by career-focused programs that lead to stable employment. This combination of low net prices and manageable debt loads creates a sustainable path to degree completion for students from diverse economic backgrounds.
Ferris State University Hub Overview
Executive summary with admissions, cost, outcomes, and program analysis
