All 41 Colleges and Universities in Michigan

Are you looking for all the colleges and universities in Michigan? Here, we will go over the list of private and public universities and colleges in Michigan.

In our database, there are a total of 41 institutions in Michigan including Adrian College, Albion College, and Alma College . Out of those institutions, 16 are public and 25 are private. Some of the public institutions are Central Michigan University, Cranbrook Academy of Art, and Eastern Michigan University. Some examples of private universities in Michigan are Adrian College, Albion College, and Alma College.

In these universities and colleges in Michigan, the total number of students is 353,012, and the total number of international students is 9,117.

1. Adrian College

Adrian College is a private liberal arts college in Adrian, Michigan. It was founded in 1845 as a theological institute by Wesleyan Methodists. The college provides 50 undergraduate majors as well as traditional Master's programs in a wide range of fields. Adrian College offers students cutting-edge facilities, small class sizes, and innovative learning methods.

2. Albion College

Albion College is located in a small city in Michigan with a little more than 8,000 inhabitants, which turns Albion's students into an important part of the local community. It offers almost 80 bachelor's degree programs, and although it doesn't have any graduate programs, it gives assistance to students that want to continue their education and obtain a master's degree. This college has modern facilities such as state-of-the-art laboratories and 4 centers, which include its famous Nature Center that's open to the public.

3. Alma College

Alma College offers 50 bachelor's degree programs and has recently opened two master's degree programs. Its education is based on experiential learning, as it encourages doing internships, developing research projects, and studying abroad. The university works in partnership with universities in 14 countries to offer study abroad opportunities and has centers in four US states with off-campus activities. This college is also famous for its United Nations Model, with which they have won dozens of awards in the last two decades.

4. Andrews University

Andrews University is a university facilitated by Seventh-day Adventists. It offers a variety of degree programs, which is why many students aim to be admitted to this Christian school. The university promotes the holistic development of the students and encourages them to maintain strong moral principles in this modern era.

5. Aquinas College

Aquinas College in Grand Rapids, Michigan, is a privately funded Catholic institution offering liberal arts programs. The college serves not only its students but also the local and neighboring community, making them nationally recognized for its academics and social and service efforts. Additionally, it promotes sustainability within its campus and has even developed academic program/s for prospective students who want to study climate crisis and related studies. The college is truly a representation of being the leaders of change that would significantly contribute to the betterment of society.

6. Baker College

Baker College is a large private university with a main campus in Michigan and satellite campuses across the Michigan Peninsula. The university grew by establishing new campuses, purchasing and branding existing small-scale schools, and as a result, it is now operating on a very large scale, including 14 ground campuses and online universities. Baker College was founded in 1911 by Eldon Baker under the name Baker Business College, and later merged many universities and built a campus to become what is now Baker College.

7. Calvin University

Calvin University is a liberal arts institution affiliated with the Christian Reformed Church. It was named after John Calvin, a Protestant reformer, and the university is based on Calvinist tradition. Several undergraduate programs are offered, along with a limited number of graduate programs. Some of these programs are available for online setup. Calvin University is well-ranked, placing 251st in the US by QS rankings.

8. Central Michigan University

Central Michigan University (CMU) is one of the leading public research institutions in the state of Michigan. In fact, the university is home to quite a number of research centers and institutes that have top-notch facilities. CMU also takes pride in its diverse and inclusive community, welcoming students and staff of different backgrounds and cultures.

9. Cleary University

Clearly University was established in 1883, initially offering academic business programs. Today, the university is still offering study programs entirely concentrated on business. Its educational programs have expanded and are now offering interdisciplinary and specialized programs. The university provides these programs in an online setting. This benefits busy students and professionals who prefer a more flexible schedule. Moreover, this learning setup will help various individuals attain their educational goals.

10. College for Creative Studies

College for Creative Studies (CCS) is one of the ideal private institutions in the US for creative students. CCS has some of the best network connections in the art, entertainment, and other relevant industries. Students enrolled in one of their study programs will have numerous opportunities awaiting them. In addition, the academic faculty comprises experts and highly qualified professors who are well connected in several industry sectors.

11. Concordia University Ann Arbor

Concordia University Ann Arbor is a private university affiliated with the Lutheran Church. With traditions and values centered on Lutheran teachings, the university is known as one of the best Christian universities in Michigan. It offers 60 undergraduate and graduate level programs. Corcordia University is also home to over 1100 students.

12. Cornerstone University

Cornerstone University is a private Christian university in Grand Rapids, Michigan. They offer undergraduate, graduate, and seminary degrees. Students can choose from 60 academic programs in arts, sciences, humanities, religious studies, education, technology, business, and journalism.

13. Cranbrook Academy of Art

Cranbrook Academy of Art is an art specialized school that only serves graduate-level programs. It was founded in 1904, on a land area of 319-acre and a campus partially designed by renowned Finnish architect Eliel Saarinen. The school provides an array of learning opportunities from traditional, digital, and experimental fields of art with eleven art departments.

14. Davenport University

Established in 1866, Davenport University offers countless opportunities for local and international students. This private university offers a traditional and modern way of learning, and students have the option to either study in-person or online, depending on their needs. It is also known to be among the pioneers in Michigan in offering online programs at all levels. Moreover, as the institution thrives to become a leading national university, its top priority is to constantly improve the quality of education and offer more innovative academic programs.

15. Eastern Michigan University

Eastern Michigan University was one of the first normal or teacher training schools in the United States. It was only in 1959 when it earned its present name and university status. Composed of eight colleges, EMU offers a variety of undergraduate, graduate, certificate, and specialist programs in the arts, sciences, education, engineering, technology, health, and human services.

16. Ferris State University

Located in the upper part of Michigan, Ferris State University (FSU) is a federally-funded institution that was established in the late nineteenth century. Undergoing much change in infrastructure, FSU became one of the largest universities in the nation with 20 campuses nationwide. Following the major academic trend, many courses offered by Ferris have become available online, and even now, various graduate programs and certificates are still offered by its academic colleges and specialized departments.

17. Finlandia University

Finlandia University, a non-profit and private institution in the US midwest, traces its heritage to the Finnish community and the Evangelical Lutheran Church. Its Finnish background is unique, as it is the only one of such kind in North America. These connections are evident in its education and campus. The student population is relatively small, with less than 500 students yearly. This may be attributed to the fact that only undergraduate programs (bachelor's and associate degrees) are being offered. Despite such limited options, the modest size allows for optimal class sizes and student-to-faculty ratio.

18. Grand Valley State University

Grand Valley State University is one of the United States' most extensive universities, welcoming tens of thousands of students and employees. Around 140 majors and programs are offered every year to students. It has several campuses and regional centers across Michigan: Allendale, Grand Rapids, Holland (Michigan), Battle Creek, Detroit, Muskegon, and Traverse City. Campus life is also vibrant, with no less than 300 active student organizations in the university.

19. Hillsdale College

Known for being the perfect place for conservative students, Hillsdale College offers almost 40 bachelor's degree programs and recently opened 3 master's degree programs. Classes are complemented with independent research and extracurricular activities such as volunteering. In fact, the college has 25 volunteering programs in partnership with different charities. Additionally, the college has more than 100 student organizations, which include honorary societies, sports teams, and religious groups.

20. Hope College

Hope College is ranked 11th in the national liberal arts colleges ranking by US News. It is affiliated with the Reformed Church in America and was established by the Dutch immigrant community in 1866. Hope College provides around 90 majors, minors, and pre-professional courses. The student-to-faculty ratio is small and optimal at 11:1, ensuring attention and opportunities are given to each student.

21. Kalamazoo College

Kalamazoo College is a private liberal arts university founded in 1833 in Kalamazoo, Michigan. It was founded by American Baptist pastors at the time of its establishment, but now it is not classified as a religious university. Kalamazoo College is one of the most prestigious universities in Forbes Michigan. Kalamazoo College emphasizes hands-on education and operates a rigorous liberal arts education that provides students with overseas experiences and rich experiences within the Kalamazoo community.

22. Kettering University

Kettering University is a specialized private institution in Michigan. Its programs are centered on STEM or science, tech, engineering, and mathematics courses. The university was formerly known as the General Motors Institute of Technology, and its present name is taken after the inventor of General Motors. Kettering University is 389th in the Times Higher Education US College Rankings 2022.

23. Lake Superior State University

Lake Superior State University (LSSU) is a public institution in Michigan. The university provides study programs in liberal arts and several technical studies. Some of its academic programs include health science, computer science, engineering, and education. The learning approach at the university is a blend of the traditional and modern ways of learning. LSSU may be small, but it has big goals for its students. It provides top-quality education and countless opportunities to equip its students with the necessary knowledge and core capabilities to succeed in their chosen career paths.

24. Lawrence Technological University

Founded in 1932, Lawrence Technological University is among the leading academic institutions for tertiary education in the midwest region. It offers more than 100 programs in a wide range of fields and is well-known for its excellent engineering programs. Programs at the university are designed to equip students with strong technical knowledge, skills, and an entrepreneurial mindset. 

25. Madonna University

Madonna University is a higher education institution that offers education in three forms which are on campus in Livonia, online, or distance learning through their satellite location. There are also other university centers where students can study in Dearborn, Macomb, Southfield, and Gaylord, aside from the main campus in Livonia, Michigan. Founded in 1937, the 2444 student population studied under 100 undergraduate major and minor programs as well as 30 graduate programs. The mission of the school includes diversity, inclusion, leadership, and religious faith grounded in the teachings of the Felician Sisters.

26. Michigan State University

Michigan State University, also known as Michigan State, is a world-class public research university in East Lansing, Michigan which is known to have one of the largest student bodies in all of the universities in the United States. It was established in 1855 as the Agricultural College of the State of Michigan, the very first agricultural college in the country. The institution is recognized to have a solid research performance and outstanding higher education system allowing students and professionals to gain interdisciplinary knowledge and advanced theoretical and technical skills. Moreover, the university is well-known for pioneering music therapy, packaging, hospitality business, supply chain management, and communication science.

27. Michigan Technological University

Michigan Technological University has proven that it can also keep up with other prominent universities since it has incurred rapid growth over the years. The university saw a massive increase in its research outputs and admission population significantly when it expanded its degree offerings. At present, the university already has more than 100 programs for students worldwide.

28. Northern Michigan University

Northern Michigan University was primarily an institution for education and teacher training. More than 100 years after its establishment, it now offers diverse programs ranging from undergraduate to postgraduate courses. The university provides a warm learning environment for both domestic and international students.

29. Northwood University

Northwood University (NU) is a higher education institution that has cultivated industry leaders and experts in different sectors. It has always remained true to its primary goal to generate global citizens and competent graduates. It aids its students in achieving academic success throughout their studies while also giving the same importance to their well-being. The university has been entirely committed to providing high standards of teaching and research since its inception. And evidently enough, it continues to thrive on developing advanced programs and achieving more important goals to offer to its students.

30. Oakland University

Oakland University is one of the most prominent and extensive universities in the Detroit area, such that it extends across two cities, Auburn Hills and Rochester Hills. More than 200 programs from the arts to medicine are available for undergrads and grad students. Among its best programs is medicine, which ranks 601st in the QS Subject Rankings. This university, borne out of a couple's generous donation, has maintained excellence and a credible reputation, as is evident in its rankings.

31. Olivet College

Olivet College's mission is to provide an education that enriches student lives intellectually, purely, and spiritually on a diverse campus. At Olivet College, they value the individual student. It makes strides to ensure each student builds stable relationships with professors and counterparts, experiences rewarding opportunities, and gains the ability needed to be prosperous in any future career.

32. Saginaw Valley State University

The Saginaw Valley State University was founded in 1963, making it the youngest state-funded university in Michigan. It offers over 100 programs in diverse fields. Programs at the university combine theory and practice and are taught by the best experts in their respective fields. 

33. Siena Heights University

Siena Heights University, founded in 1919, is a private university in Michigan, United States. It was initially opened to provide education to women through the efforts of the Adrian Dominican Sisters. Eventually, the university became a Roman Catholic-affiliated institution and offers over 40 programs in Arts, Sciences, and Professional Studies.

34. Spring Arbor University

Established in 1873, Spring Arbor University (SAU) is a Christ-centered and private institution that educates top-class students to become leaders and experts who will venture into various industry sectors. Some known degree programs include nursing, elementary and secondary education, and social work. To cater to more students from across the globe, SAU also offers several 100 % online programs. Access to good education is one of the university’s top priorities, with both traditional and modern ways of learning having the same top-quality education.

35. University of Detroit Mercy

The University of Detroit Mercy is affiliated with the Sisters of Mercy and the Society of Jesus, making it a Catholic institution. It is the most extensive Catholic university in Michigan, having four campuses: McNichols, Riverfront, Novi, and Corktown. The university maintains a small student-to-faculty ratio of 11:1, allowing for more opportunities and personalized training for each student.

36. University of Michigan

Heralded as the oldest university in the state is the University of Michigan. Founded in 1817, the University of Michigan has its central campus at An Arbor, with branch campuses in Dearborn and Flint. It offers over 250 degree programs across various disciplines in art, engineering, applied sciences, and social sciences. The University of Michigan takes pride in its reputation in research and academic performance, earning a seat among the top public universities around the world.

37. University of Michigan-Dearborn

The University of Michigan-Dearborn aims to develop highly intellectual graduates prepared to address the world's complexities. It offers a great environment where students can explore new insights and grow to become a better version of themselves. The university is best known for its engineering and arts courses.

38. University of Michigan-Flint

The University of Michigan-Flint is committed to leveling up the students' educational experience through advanced equipment and updated resources. It aims to produce graduates that are well aware of the ins and outs of their chosen fields. The university offers career support, leading to a high employment rate among its graduates.

39. Walsh College

Walsh College is a business school that offers 20 bachelor's and master's degrees, as well as double degree programs and joint programs in collaboration with other universities. However, students will only have access to bachelor's studies in case they have already completed credits at another university or have an associate's degree. This college prepares students by combining classes, work experience, and experiential learning and has flexible modalities, which include 100% online, on-campus, and hybrid. Its main campus is located in Trenton, but there are other two centers in Michigan.

40. Wayne State University

Situated in one of the major hubs of Michigan, Wayne State University (WSU) is a public institution that specializes in research. As one of the largest colleges in Michigan state, WSU offers over 300 academic programs to many of its enrolled students. When it comes to size, Wayne State University has over 100 different buildings on its central campus alone. In addition to its main campus, WSU has established six satellite campus that surrounds the Detriot area.

41. Western Michigan University

Western Michigan University is one of the most high-regarded universities in the region. It offers an innovative educational approach where students get to have a deeper understanding of themselves and society. The university defines success as being competent in this ever-changing world, which is why it trains students to have the necessary knowledge they need in their field of choice.