About Ferris State University
The financial picture tells a compelling story about value. Students pay an average net price of $12,202, which drops to just $5,957 for families earning under $30,000. Graduates earn a median of $54,735 ten years after leaving school, while carrying typical debt of $21,000. The monthly loan payment of $223 represents a manageable burden given earning potential. An impressive 96.8% employment rate shows employers value Ferris graduates.
Nearly half of students graduate in four years, with 47.90% finishing within six years. The 15:1 student-faculty ratio means personalized attention in technical programs. About 92% of students come from Michigan, creating a homegrown atmosphere. The Bulldogs compete in 13 NAIA sports, adding school spirit to the career preparation.
Academics & Faculty
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 15:1
- Full-Time Faculty
- 72.0%
- Graduation Rate (4-year)
- 48.6%
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 47.9%
- Retention Rate
- 72.8%
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $54,735
- Carnegie Classification
- Doctoral/Professional University
Popular Programs by Earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings |
|---|---|---|
| Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Administration. | Doctoral | $123,608 |
| Optometry. | Doctoral | $97,071 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Certificate | $81,498 |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Master | $76,460 |
| Quality Control and Safety Technologies/Technicians. | Certificate | $74,576 |
| Industrial Production Technologies/Technicians. | Bachelor | $74,122 |
| Mechanical Engineering Related Technologies/Technicians. | Bachelor | $69,535 |
| Electrical Engineering Technologies/Technicians. | Bachelor | $67,240 |
| Manufacturing Engineering. | Bachelor | $66,941 |
| Heavy/Industrial Equipment Maintenance Technologies. | Bachelor | $65,905 |
Campus Life
The 15:1 student-faculty ratio means professors know your name, especially in Ferris's signature programs like automotive technology and pharmacy. Students gather at campus events during the long winters, with hockey games drawing crowds despite competing at the NAIA level. Weekend life revolves around campus activities and house parties, since Big Rapids offers limited nightlife options. The 92% in-state student body creates a distinctly Michigan atmosphere, where many students come from automotive families and plan careers in technical fields. Campus traditions include the annual torch lighting ceremony and strong school spirit around the Bulldogs athletic teams.
- Setting
- Town-Remote
- Housing Capacity
- 3,230 beds
- Calendar System
- Semester
- Study Abroad
- Available
- Founded
- 1884
Campus Safety (2023)
97 total reported incidents. Source: Clery Act / U.S. Department of Education
| Offense | On Campus | Residential | Noncampus | Public Property |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stalking | 20 | 7 | 0 | 1 |
| Fondling | 10 | 8 | 1 | 0 |
| Dating Violence | 8 | 6 | 1 | 1 |
| Domestic Violence | 5 | 5 | 0 | 0 |
| Aggravated Assault | 3 | 2 | 0 | 4 |
| Rape | 4 | 4 | 0 | 0 |
| Burglary | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 |
| Arson | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 |
Climate & Weather
- January Avg
- 11°–28°F
- July Avg
- 56°–81°F
- Annual Precipitation
- 36.6"
- Annual Snowfall
- 61.1"
Student Demographics
- Men
- 47.5%
- Women
- 52.5%
- White
- 74.3%
- Black
- 9.5%
- Hispanic
- 6.6%
- Asian
- 1.5%
- In-State Students
- 92.0%
- Pell Grant Recipients
- 33.6%
Location
- Address
- Big Rapids, Michigan 49307-2251
After College
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $54,735
- Median Earnings (5 years)
- $62,890
- Mean Earnings (6 years after entry)
- $40,300
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 58.9%
- Monthly Loan Payment
- $223/mo
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $21,000
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the acceptance rate at Ferris State University?
Ferris State University accepts 87.88% of applicants, making it accessible to most students who apply. The average SAT score is 1030, reflecting the school's focus on providing opportunities for students with varied academic backgrounds. This welcoming admissions approach aligns with Ferris State's mission as a career-focused institution.
How much does Ferris State University cost after financial aid?
Students at Ferris State pay an average net price of $12,202 after financial aid. The university charges the same tuition rate of $13,630 for both in-state and out-of-state students. Graduates leave with a median debt of $21,000 and manageable monthly loan payments of $223.
What programs is Ferris State University known for?
Ferris State has built its reputation on strong career-focused programs, particularly in automotive technology, pharmacy, and optometry. The university maintains a 15:1 student-faculty ratio, providing hands-on learning opportunities. These practical programs prepare students for immediate employment in high-demand fields.
What are the job outcomes for Ferris State University graduates?
Ferris State graduates achieve a 96.8% employment rate, demonstrating the value of the university's career-oriented approach. The median earnings after 10 years reach $54,735, reflecting strong job placement in technical and professional fields. However, only 47.90% of students graduate within six years, indicating the school serves many working and non-traditional students.
Where is Ferris State University located and what is campus life like?
Ferris State sits in Big Rapids, Michigan, a small town setting that creates a tight-knit community atmosphere. The campus houses 3,230 students in residence halls, serving an enrollment of 8,087 total students. With 409 student-athletes competing in 13 varsity sports, the Bulldogs maintain an active athletic presence in NAIA competition.
Does Ferris State University serve mostly Michigan residents?
Ferris State draws 92.03% of its students from Michigan, making it primarily a regional institution. The student body is 52.53% women and 74.34% white, with 33.58% receiving Pell Grants for financial need. This local focus allows Ferris State to serve Michigan's workforce development needs, particularly in technical and health-related fields.
