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Western Michigan University and Oakland University are both public institutions — Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo, MI and Oakland University in Rochester Hills, 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.
Kalamazoo, MI · Public
Acceptance rate: 84.6%
Undergrad enrollment: 12,568
Tuition: $19,034/year
Student-faculty ratio: 16.0:1
Graduation rate: 57.6%
Top programs: Business and marketing, Engineering, Health professions
Best for: Students who want a public campus in Kalamazoo, MI with published program strength in Business and marketing and Engineering.
Rochester Hills, MI · Public
Acceptance rate: 87.8%
Undergrad enrollment: 12,351
Tuition: $23,188/year
Student-faculty ratio: 17.0:1
Graduation rate: 57.6%
Top programs: Health professions, Business and marketing, Engineering
Best for: Students who want a public campus in Rochester Hills, MI with published program strength in Health professions and Business and marketing.
| Factor | Western Michigan University | Oakland University |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 84.6% | 87.8% |
| SAT range (middle 50%) |
| Not reported |
| 1030–1230 |
| ACT range (middle 50%) | 24 average | 25 average |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 12,568 | 12,351 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $19,034/year | $23,188/year |
| Average net price after aid | $15,273 | $9,120 |
| Graduation rate | 57.6% | 57.6% |
| Median earnings (10 years) | $53,562 | $58,612 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 16.0:1 | 17.0:1 |
| Institution type | Public | Public |
| Location | Kalamazoo, MI | Rochester Hills, MI |
| Largest program areas | Business and marketing, Engineering, Health professions | Health professions, Business and marketing, Engineering |
Western Michigan University is more selective (84.6% vs 87.8% acceptance rate). Oakland University has a lower average net price after grant aid ($9,120 vs $15,273). Both report a similar graduation rate (57.6%). Western Michigan University is the larger undergraduate campus (12,568 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 Western Michigan University and Oakland University
Western Michigan University has an acceptance rate of 84.6%; Oakland University is around 87.8%. Selectivity is only one factor — GPA, essays, major, and residency (for publics) all change the odds.
Western Michigan University tuition is $19,034/year. Oakland University is $23,188/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.
Add both schools to our free side-by-side comparison tool — tuition, outcomes, and more.
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