Overview
Enrollment
Western Michigan University (WMU), located in Kalamazoo, Michigan, is a public research university established in 1903. The suburban campus spans over 1200 acres and features a blend of traditional collegiate and contemporary architectural styles with a comprehensive on-campus housing system. Approximately 140 miles from Detroit, WMU offers a diverse educational environment with over 250 undergraduate and graduate degree programs. While the university maintains a moderately selective admissions process, it is notably recognized for its strong programs in aviation, engineering, and business. WMU does not notably excel in athletics at a national level, focusing instead on its academic and research initiatives.
In the most recent statistical year 20,501 prospective students applied, and 17,334 were granted admission. Of those admitted 2,621 enrolled in the school. 12,696 students are enrolled on a full time basis, and 4,304 attend part time. In-state tuition for 2022/2023, excluding room and board, is $14,523 plus fees of $100. WMU is ranked 634 nationally in the CollegeSimply.com 2024 U.S. Colleges Ranking.
Ratings
Overall
Academics
Resources
Outcomes
Value
WMU is rated within the lower 48% of four-year colleges nationally and earns a CollegeSimply grade of 5 out of 10. Learn how ratings are calculated
Rankings
Rankings for Western Michigan University within the 2024 CollegeSimply Best Colleges Lists.
#634 in Best Colleges in the U.S.
#207 in Best Public Colleges in the U.S.
#18 in Best Colleges in Michigan
#7 in Best Public Colleges in Michigan
#76 in Best Value Colleges in Michigan
View the CollegeSimply ranking methodology.
Getting In
Admission Standards
| SAT | 990/1220 |
| ACT | 19/27 |
| GPA | 3.5 |
Applications Accepted
| Applications Due | - |
| Applicant Competition | Very Low |
| Application Fee | $40 |
Annual Cost to Attend
Michigan Resident Tuition
| Fee | Cost |
|---|---|
| Books and Supplies | $1,128 |
| Other Fees | $100 |
| Room and Board | $11,102 |
| Budget for Other Expenses | $2,573 |
| Total One Year Cost | $29,426 |
Out of State Resident Tuition
| Fee | Cost |
|---|---|
| Books and Supplies | $1,128 |
| Other Fees | $100 |
| Room and Board | $11,102 |
| Budget for Other Expenses | $2,573 |
| Total One Year Cost | $33,057 |
Outcomes
Average Salary After 10 Years
Bachelor's Degree Graduation Rate
Popular Areas of Study
| Subject | Percent of Class |
|---|---|
| Business | 22% |
| Education | 11% |
| Health Professions | 8% |
| Communication | 6% |
| Engineering | 6% |
Other Colleges to Consider
Students considering WMU are frequently interested in these similar colleges.
Primary data source, U.S. Department of Education https://nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator/?id=172699 IPEDS survey data for Western Michigan University.
Current students may use the Western Michigan University GPA calculator to determine their current college GPA.