Michigan State University vs Michigan Technological University
Admission and Cost: Both schools offer relatively accessible admission, with Michigan Tech accepting 93.7% of applicants compared to MSU's 88.0%. MSU costs less for in-state students ($15,988 vs $18,392), while Michigan Tech offers better value for out-of-state students ($41,340 vs $43,372). Michigan Tech provides a significantly lower average net price at $15,729 compared to MSU's $20,751.
Academic Environment: MSU operates as a large research university with 40,243 students and a 17:1 student-faculty ratio. Michigan Tech maintains a smaller, more intimate environment with 5,829 students and a favorable 13:1 ratio, allowing for closer faculty relationships.
Academic Focus: MSU offers comprehensive programs across disciplines, particularly strong in agriculture, veterinary medicine, and business. Michigan Tech specializes heavily in engineering, computer science, and applied sciences, reflecting its technical mission.
Campus Experience: MSU provides the full Big Ten experience with NCAA Division I athletics and extensive campus life opportunities. Michigan Tech offers a close-knit community atmosphere with Division II sports and outdoor recreation opportunities in Michigan's Upper Peninsula.
Outcomes: Despite MSU's higher graduation rate (82.2% vs 68.7%) and retention rate (91.4% vs 87.7%), Michigan Tech graduates earn more long-term, with median earnings of $78,198 compared to MSU's $67,253. Both schools result in similar debt levels around $24,000.
MSU suits students seeking a comprehensive university experience with diverse academic options, while Michigan Tech fits students passionate about technical fields who prefer smaller class sizes and specialized programs.
Admission and Cost: Both schools offer relatively accessible admission, with Michigan Tech accepting 93.7% of applicants compared to MSU's 88.0%. MSU costs less for in-state students ($15,988 vs $18,392), while Michigan Tech offers better value for out-of-state students ($41,340 vs $43,372). Michigan Tech provides a significantly lower average net price at $15,729 compared to MSU's $20,751.
Academic Environment: MSU operates as a large research university with 40,243 students and a 17:1 student-faculty ratio. Michigan Tech maintains a smaller, more intimate environment with 5,829 students and a favorable 13:1 ratio, allowing for closer faculty relationships.
Academic Focus: MSU offers comprehensive programs across disciplines, particularly strong in agriculture, veterinary medicine, and business. Michigan Tech specializes heavily in engineering, computer science, and applied sciences, reflecting its technical mission.
Campus Experience: MSU provides the full Big Ten experience with NCAA Division I athletics and extensive campus life opportunities. Michigan Tech offers a close-knit community atmosphere with Division II sports and outdoor recreation opportunities in Michigan's Upper Peninsula.
Outcomes: Despite MSU's higher graduation rate (82.2% vs 68.7%) and retention rate (91.4% vs 87.7%), Michigan Tech graduates earn more long-term, with median earnings of $78,198 compared to MSU's $67,253. Both schools result in similar debt levels around $24,000.
MSU suits students seeking a comprehensive university experience with diverse academic options, while Michigan Tech fits students passionate about technical fields who prefer smaller class sizes and specialized programs.
Head-to-Head Comparison
| Michigan State University | Michigan Technological University | |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 88.0% | 93.7% |
| SAT Average | 1,260 | 1,240 |
| Enrollment | 40,243 | 5,829 |
| In-State Tuition | $15,988 | $18,392 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $43,372 | $41,340 |
| Net Price | $20,751 | $15,729 |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 82.2% | 68.7% |
| Retention Rate | 91.4% | 87.7% |
| Median Earnings (10yr) | $67,253 | $78,198 |
| Median Debt | $23,250 | $24,990 |
Top Programs by Earnings
Top 5 bachelor's programs at each school, ranked by median graduate earnings.
| Michigan State University | Michigan Technological University | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Program | Earnings | Program | Earnings |
| Computer Engineering. | $80,133 | Computer Engineering. | $78,172 |
| Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering. | $77,115 | Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering. | $75,989 |
| Mechanical Engineering. | $75,936 | Computer Science. | $75,047 |
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | $75,291 | Materials Engineering | $73,635 |
| Chemical Engineering. | $71,351 | Mechanical Engineering. | $71,637 |