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Cheapest Parks Colleges in Michigan

Ranked by lowest net price after financial aid. See our methodology.

Central Michigan University offers Parks, Recreation and Leisure Studies at just $16,041 net cost, making it nearly $9,000 cheaper than Calvin University's program. This substantial savings matters in Michigan, where the outdoor recreation economy generates $26 billion annually through activities spanning from Great Lakes tourism to state park management. Graduates earn between $23,260 and $32,569, with Western Michigan University students achieving the highest median earnings despite moderate program costs of $18,701.
5
Programs
$16,041 – $24,783
Net Price Range
$28,263
Avg. Program Earnings
61.5%
Avg. Graduation Rate

5 Parks, Recreation and Leisure Studies Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $16,041 $14,190 61.8% 79.0%
2 $17,485 $13,304 50.8% 70.6%
3 $18,701 $15,298 57.8% 84.6%
4 $20,899 $32,580 59.9% 47.3%
5 $24,783 $38,670 77.4% 74.2%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the $8,742 cost difference between the cheapest and most expensive programs?

Central Michigan University's public status keeps net costs at $16,041, while Calvin University's private structure pushes costs to $24,783. However, Calvin achieves a 77.40% graduation rate compared to Central Michigan's 61.80%, suggesting the investment may yield better completion outcomes.

How do earnings compare across Michigan's recreation programs?

Western Michigan graduates earn $32,569 median income, outpacing other programs by significant margins. Northern Michigan graduates earn $25,194, while Central Michigan graduates start at $23,260, creating a $9,309 earnings gap between the highest and lowest programs.

Does acceptance rate indicate program selectivity in recreation studies?

Spring Arbor University accepts just 47.32% of applicants, making it the most selective program despite moderate costs. Western Michigan accepts 84.55% of students while delivering the highest graduate earnings, suggesting accessible admission standards don't compromise career outcomes.

More Parks, Recreation and Leisure Studies Rankings

Best Value Parks, Recreation and Leisure Studies in Michigan Parks, Recreation and Leisure Studies Under $20,000 in Michigan

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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.