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Colleges / MI / Kalamazoo
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Western Michigan University

Public Kalamazoo, MI · Urban · Great Lakes · 100% data reported · Agent Insights
58%
Graduation Rate
$53,562
Earnings (10yr)
$15,273
Net Price
85%
Acceptance Rate

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Overview

With an acceptance rate of 85%, Western Michigan University is an accessible option for students looking for a solid education in areas like Business & Marketing, Engineering, and Health Professions. The diverse student body of over 12,500 can find a niche in programs that balance practical skills with theoretical knowledge. The emphasis on real-world applications helps students prepare for careers in industries that are in demand.

After graduation, students can expect to earn an average of $53,562 in their first decade of working. This is a promising figure that reflects the university's ability to equip graduates with the skills needed in various fields. Affordability is also a consideration; the net price after aid stands at $15,273, making it a reasonable choice for many. While the graduation rate is 58%, the supportive environment can help those who might need extra time to complete their degree.

Financially, students graduate with a median debt of $26,188. This figure is manageable for many, especially when considering the average earnings. Those who thrive here often take advantage of the university's strong connections in sectors like Transportation and the Visual & Performing Arts, which can lead to fulfilling careers. Overall, Western Michigan University appeals to students seeking a practical education without overwhelming financial burdens.

Rankings

How Western Compares

Dot right of center = above national average.

NATIONAL AVGGraduation58%Earnings 10yr$54KNet Price$15KRetention81%Median Debt$26KPell Grant Rate27%

Net Price by Family Income

What families actually pay after aid, by income bracket.

$5K$0-30K$6K$30-48K$14K$48-75K$24K$110K+

The Mobility Equation

Mobility = Access x Success. How many low-income students get in, and how many reach the top 20%?

ACCESS% from bottom 20%345.3%SUCCESS% who reach top 20%2911.5%MOBILITY100.54%

Cost & Financial Aid

$15,252
In-State Tuition
$19,034
Out-of-State
$15,273
Avg Net Price
$26,188
Median Debt
27%
Pell Grant Rate
47%
Federal Loan Rate

What Families Actually Pay

$5,263
Family Income $0–$30K
$5,734
Family Income $30K–$48K
$13,833
Family Income $48K–$75K
$23,625
Family Income $110K+

Graduate Outcomes

$45,356
6 Years After Entry
$48,394
8 Years
$53,562
10 Years
0.49x
Debt-to-Earnings
61%
Earning > $25K

Earnings Trajectory

$45,356 6yr $48,394 8yr $53,562 10yr

Social Mobility

Data: Raj Chetty's Mobility Report Card · 30M+ anonymized tax records

100.54%
Mobility Rate
Bottom 20% → Top 20%
2911.5%
Success Rate
If bottom 20% get in
345.3%
From Bottom 20%
Share of students
$112,200
Parent Median Income

Social Capital

Data: Opportunity Insights Social Capital Atlas

1.56
Economic Connectedness
Cross-class friendships
0.02
Friending Bias
Lower = more inclusive
7.1%
Volunteering Rate
0.98
Support Ratio
Community support

Innovation

Data: Opportunity Insights Patent & Innovation Data

0.428%
Inventor Rate
137
Total Patents
377
Total Citations

Academics & Admissions

Acceptance Rate 85%
Retention Rate 81%
ACT Midpoint 24
Full-Time Faculty 63%
Faculty Salary (mo) $10,830
Diversity Index 0.52
First-Gen Students 29%

Top Programs

Business & Marketing 27%
Engineering 8%
Transportation 8%
Health Professions 7%
Visual & Performing Arts 7%
Education 6%
Psychology 5%
Biology & Biomedical 4%