Cheapest Ecology Colleges in Michigan

Michigan State University graduates in Ecology, Evolution, Systematics, and Population Biology earn $22,192 annually, the highest among 13 programs statewide, while Ferris State offers the most affordable option at just $12,202 net cost. The state's extensive Great Lakes ecosystem and conservation initiatives create natural career pathways for these specialized biologists. Public universities dominate the affordable end, with 9 of the 10 cheapest programs coming from state institutions. Private colleges like Calvin University cost nearly double at $24,783, though their smaller class sizes may appeal to students seeking closer faculty mentorship in field research.

Programs

$12,202 – $28,458

Net Price Range

$20,311

Avg. Program Earnings

63.5%

Avg. Graduation Rate

13 Ecology, Evolution, Systematics, and Population Biology Programs

Program rankings
#	School	Net Price	In-State Tuition	Graduation Rate	Acceptance Rate
1	Ferris State University Big Rapids, Michigan	$12,202	$13,630	47.9%	87.9%
2	Lake Superior State University Sault Ste Marie, Michigan	$14,368	$14,266	56.9%	76.9%
3	Saginaw Valley State University University Center, Michigan	$14,582	$12,240	53.8%	76.4%
4	University of Michigan-Ann Arbor Ann Arbor, Michigan	$14,832	$17,228	93.2%	17.7%
5	Michigan Technological University Houghton, Michigan	$15,729	$18,392	68.7%	93.7%
6	Central Michigan University Mount Pleasant, Michigan	$16,041	$14,190	61.8%	79.0%
7	Northern Michigan University Marquette, Michigan	$17,485	$13,304	50.8%	70.6%
8	Western Michigan University Kalamazoo, Michigan	$18,701	$15,298	57.8%	84.6%
9	Michigan State University East Lansing, Michigan	$20,751	$15,988	82.2%	88.0%
10	Spring Arbor University Spring Arbor, Michigan	$20,899	$32,580	59.9%	47.3%
11	Cornerstone University Grand Rapids, Michigan	$22,384	$29,100	61.6%	81.8%
12	Calvin University Grand Rapids, Michigan	$24,783	$38,670	77.4%	74.2%
13	Kuyper College Grand Rapids, Michigan	$28,458	$26,390	53.6%	75.7%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the $16,256 cost difference between the cheapest and most expensive programs?

Private institutions like Kuyper College ($28,458) and Calvin University ($24,783) drive up the top end, while public universities benefit from state funding. Ferris State's $12,202 net cost reflects strong financial aid packaging at a smaller public institution.

How do graduation rates vary between affordable and expensive programs?

University of Michigan Ann Arbor achieves a 93.2% graduation rate despite ranking 4th in affordability at $14,832. Meanwhile, some pricier private options like Spring Arbor (59.9%) and Kuyper College (53.6%) show lower completion rates.

Where do ecology graduates find employment opportunities in Michigan?

The Great Lakes region supports careers with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, environmental consulting firms, and research institutions. The state's $5,500 Michigan Achievement Scholarship helps reduce costs for in-state students pursuing these specialized biology fields.

Does acceptance rate correlate with program affordability in Michigan?

Not consistently. Michigan Tech accepts 93.68% of applicants while charging $15,729, while University of Michigan's highly selective 17.69% acceptance rate still delivers strong value at $14,832. Most affordable options maintain acceptance rates above 75%.

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Net price reflects the average cost after grants and scholarships for first-time, full-time students. See our methodology for details.