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Ferris State University and Northern Michigan University are both public institutions — Ferris State University in Big Rapids, MI and Northern Michigan University in Marquette, MI. This page compares published admission, cost, and outcome data from federal sources so you can see the tradeoffs before you add either school to your list.
Big Rapids, MI · Public
Acceptance rate: 91.4%
Undergrad enrollment: 8,106
Tuition: $14,778/year
Student-faculty ratio: 15.0:1
Graduation rate: 46.9%
Top programs: Business and marketing, Health professions, Security and law enforcement
Best for: Students who want a public campus in Big Rapids, MI with published program strength in Business and marketing and Health professions.
Marquette, MI · Public
Acceptance rate: 84.0%
Undergrad enrollment: 6,556
Tuition: $19,773/year
Student-faculty ratio: 18.0:1
Graduation rate: 52.1%
Top programs: Business and marketing, Health professions, Biological sciences
Best for: Students who want a public campus in Marquette, MI with published program strength in Business and marketing and Health professions.
| Factor | Ferris State University | Northern Michigan University |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 91.4% | 84.0% |
| SAT range (middle 50%) |
| 890–1120 |
| Not reported |
| ACT range (middle 50%) | 20–24 | Not reported |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 8,106 | 6,556 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $14,778/year | $19,773/year |
| Average net price after aid | $8,624 | $14,085 |
| Graduation rate | 46.9% | 52.1% |
| Median earnings (10 years) | $54,735 | $47,107 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 15.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Institution type | Public | Public |
| Location | Big Rapids, MI | Marquette, MI |
| Largest program areas | Business and marketing, Health professions, Security and law enforcement | Business and marketing, Health professions, Biological sciences |
Northern Michigan University is more selective (84.0% vs 91.4% acceptance rate). Ferris State University has a lower average net price after grant aid ($8,624 vs $14,085). Northern Michigan University reports the higher graduation rate (52.1% vs 46.9%). Ferris State University is the larger undergraduate campus (8,106 students). Use the free side-by-side comparison tool to weigh cost, program fit, location, and outcomes for your own list — and verify deadlines and requirements with each college.
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Common questions when choosing between Ferris State University and Northern Michigan University
Ferris State University has an acceptance rate of 91.4%; Northern Michigan University is around 84.0%. Selectivity is only one factor — GPA, essays, major, and residency (for publics) all change the odds.
Ferris State University tuition is $14,778/year. Northern Michigan University is $19,773/year. Compare net price after aid, not sticker price — especially for private schools and out-of-state publics.
Use College Decider's free comparison tool at /compare — add both schools to see tuition, acceptance rates, graduation outcomes, and more in one table.
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