DEEPCOLLEGES · OPS · v3.3 SCHOOLS·INDEXED 120 SOURCES IPEDS · CDS · SCORECARD LAST·SYNC 2026.04.29

Best Colleges in Michigan: Ranked by Value & Outcomes

Ranked by graduate outcomes and value — not prestige.

Top Colleges in Michigan

#1
Michigan State University
East Lansing, MI · Public
83.9%
accept
$67,253
Salary (10yr)
#2
University of Michigan
Ann Arbor, MI · Public
17.9%
accept
$83,648
Salary (10yr)

FAQs about colleges in Michigan

How many colleges are in Michigan ranked on this page?
This guide ranks 2 colleges in Michigan by graduate salary outcomes, acceptance rate, and net cost of attendance — using public US Department of Education College Scorecard and IPEDS data.
What is the hardest college to get into in Michigan?
University of Michigan-Ann Arbor has the lowest acceptance rate among Michigan colleges on this list at 17.9%. Reach for it only if your GPA, test scores, and extracurriculars are well above the school's median.
Which Michigan college has the highest graduate salary?
University of Michigan-Ann Arbor graduates earn the highest median 10-year salary among Michigan colleges on this list, at $83,648. Major choice impacts earnings far more than school choice — pick based on intended career, not just school median.
Should I stay in Michigan for college?
In-state public colleges in Michigan typically charge significantly less tuition than out-of-state students pay, so staying in-state can cut costs dramatically. Private colleges in Michigan charge the same regardless of state residency. Compare net cost (not sticker) for your family income to decide.
▎FROM THE DATA TO YOUR LIST

Plug your stats in. We'll tell you where you stand.

Browse all schools

Data source: IPEDS, College Scorecard.