Ferris State University
Big Rapids, Michigan 49307-2251
Data last updated: August 29, 2026
Known for business — excellent value
Ferris State University is a public institution in Big Rapids with particular strength in business and health sciences. With an average SAT of 1001, the school attracts a broad applicant pool.
A mid-sized campus of 8.1K undergraduates with a 15:1 student-faculty ratio. The town location creates a classic college-town feel.
48% of students graduate within four years, and graduates earn a median of $54,735 a decade after enrollment. Net price after aid averages $12,202.
Rankings
More About This School
Varsity Sports
History & Fun Facts
- •By the beginning of the next semester in January 1885, the school changed its name to Ferris Industrial School.
- •In January 1894, the school moved into and dedicated its new building, Old Main, on the corner of Oak and Ives Streets.
- •In 1898, the institution was again renamed to Ferris Institute.
- •In February 1943, alumnus Colin Smith introduced a bill in the legislature for the state to purchase Ferris Institute.
Source: Wikipedia
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Admissions
SAT Score Ranges
Average: 1001
ACT Score Range
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard / IPEDS.
Deadline Calendar
Typical Application Requirements
Cost & Financial Aid
Sticker Price
Net Price by Family Income
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Net price reflects most recent cohort of federally-aided undergraduates.
Debt & Aid Detail
Net Price Trend
Tuition Trend
Graduate w/ Zero Debt
53.0%
Avg Tuition Increase
-2.2%/yr
Median Debt at Grad
$15,500
Programs (182)
Outcomes
Median Earnings After Graduation
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Earnings reflect federally-aided students 6 and 10 years after entry.
Student Life
Student Satisfaction
Retention Rate
73%
Student Body
Race & Ethnicity
Campus Safety
Total Incidents (2024)
52
Peer Average
92
3-Year Trend
Emergency System
Campus police, emergency alert system, blue-light phones
Incident Breakdown (2024)
Burglary
Aggravated Assault
Robbery
Motor Vehicle Theft
Sex Offenses
Arson
Drug Arrests
Liquor Arrests
Source: U.S. Department of Education Campus Safety & Security data (Clery Act, 2024 reporting year).
Location & Lifestyle
Cost of Living
Estimated from MI state average