Ferris State University

Ferris State University admits approximately 80.6% of applicants, meaning roughly 4 in 5 applicants receive offers of admission. This places Ferris State in the Open Access category, reflecting the institution's commitment to providing broad educational opportunity.

The peer median admission rate of 84.6% indicates that Ferris State is slightly more selective than typical institutions in its comparison group, though the 4 percentage point difference is modest. This level of accessibility means that most academically prepared students can expect admission, though meeting basic academic requirements remains important.

For students building college lists, Ferris State represents a reliable option for those seeking career-focused programs without the uncertainty associated with highly selective admission processes. The institution's open access philosophy aligns with its mission to serve diverse student populations, including significant shares of first-generation and Pell-eligible students.

Students should focus on demonstrating academic readiness and genuine interest in the institution's practical, career-oriented programs rather than worrying about highly competitive admission standards. This accessibility makes Ferris State an appropriate choice for students seeking solid outcomes without the stress of uncertain admission decisions.

Ferris State University's published cost of attendance is $26,066 per year, including $13,630 in tuition, $10,660 for room and board, and $862 for books and supplies. However, the average student pays significantly less after financial aid, with a net price of $12,202 representing savings of $13,864 from the sticker price.

This net price falls $1,891 below the peer median of $14,093, making Ferris State more affordable than typical institutions in its comparison group. The substantial gap between published costs and actual net price reflects the institution's commitment to making education accessible through need-based financial aid.

Net prices vary significantly by family income, ranging from $5,957 for families earning under $30,000 to $19,308 for families earning over $110,000. This progressive pricing structure ensures that lower-income students face minimal cost barriers while middle and upper-income families pay rates that remain below published costs.

The $13,351 difference between lowest and highest net prices demonstrates targeted aid effectiveness in supporting students from diverse economic backgrounds while maintaining institutional sustainability.

Ferris State University graduates demonstrate steady earnings growth over their early career trajectory. Median earnings rise from $47,339 six years after enrollment to $52,215 at eight years and $54,735 at ten years, representing 15.6% growth from the six-year mark.

These outcomes are based on substantial cohorts of 5,145 graduates at six years, 5,962 at eight years, and 5,762 at ten years, providing high confidence in the reported figures. Graduates earn $5,811 beyond expectations compared to similar students nationally, placing Ferris State well above average at the 76.1st percentile for earnings uplift.

Low-income graduates earn $46,000, demonstrating the institution's ability to support economic advancement for students from lower-income backgrounds. Earnings span from $34,587 at the 25th percentile to $80,060 at the 75th percentile, reflecting differences in program choice and career trajectory.

The 2.3:1 ratio between top and bottom quartile earnings indicates meaningful variation across fields of study. Approximately 26.4% of graduates continue to graduate or professional study, indicating strong preparation for both workforce entry and advanced education pathways.

Ferris State University offers 20 bachelor's degree programs with federal earnings data for ranking analysis. Chemical Engineering Technology ranks #2 nationally and #1 in Michigan, producing 128 graduates with median earnings of $81,758 and an exceptional value score of 96.2.

Aeronautical/Aerospace Engineering Technology ranks #3 nationally and #1 in Michigan, graduating 93 students with median earnings of $77,264 and a value score of 92.3. Corrections Administration ranks #23 nationally and #2 in Michigan, graduating 288 students with median earnings of $52,189.

This represents the institution's largest program by enrollment. Biology, General ranks #45 nationally and #2 in Michigan, with 79 graduates earning $56,216.

Adult Health Nurse/Nursing graduates 160 students annually with median earnings of $72,757. Business Administration and Management represents another major program, graduating 257 students with median earnings of $56,996.

Animation, Interactive Technology ranks #8 nationally and #1 in Michigan, reflecting the institution's strength in specialized technical fields.