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Central Michigan University vs Western Michigan University

4

Central Michigan University

3

Western Michigan University

Key Metrics Compared

Official Data
Metric Central Michigan University Western Michigan University Winner
Acceptance Rate 91% 85% Western Michigan University
Graduation Rate 62% 57% Central Michigan University
Avg Earnings (5yr) $46,567 $45,356 Central Michigan University
Median Debt $27,000 $26,188 Western Michigan University
Tuition (In-State) $14,190 $15,298 Central Michigan University
Retention Rate 74% 80% Western Michigan University
Financial Aid 68% 48% Central Michigan University

Comparison Analysis

Central Michigan University graduates earn more, with average earnings of $46,567 compared to Western Michigan University's $45,356. Central Michigan also has a higher graduation rate, at 61.8% versus Western Michigan's 56.5%. Central Michigan has a higher acceptance rate, at 91% compared to Western Michigan's 84.7%.

Western Michigan University has a lower tuition cost, at $15,298 compared to Central Michigan's $14,190.

When considering the value proposition, Central Michigan University appears to offer a slightly better return on investment due to higher earnings and a better graduation rate, despite the higher tuition. Prospective students may prioritize earnings potential and graduation rates, or they may prioritize tuition costs.

Generated from College Scorecard & IPEDS data

Shared Programs

Shared Major Central Michigan University Earnings Western Michigan University Earnings Difference
Business Administration, Management and Operations $77,865 $55,660 40% favor Central Michigan University
Business Administration, Management and Operations $77,865 $83,229 7% favor Western Michigan University
Business Administration, Management and Operations $53,605 $55,660 4% favor Western Michigan University
Business Administration, Management and Operations $77,865 $0 —
Business Administration, Management and Operations $53,605 $83,229 55% favor Western Michigan University
Psychology, General $31,166 $28,890 8% favor Central Michigan University
Marketing $55,296 $53,081 4% favor Central Michigan University
Health and Physical Education/Fitness $32,850 $26,676 23% favor Central Michigan University
Business Administration, Management and Operations $53,605 $0 —
Psychology, General $31,166 $0 —

Quick Facts

Central Michigan University

Type Public
Location Mount Pleasant, MI
Setting Town
Students 9,916

Western Michigan University

Type Public
Location Kalamazoo, MI
Setting City
Students 12,704

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Frequently Asked Questions

Central Michigan University has median earnings of $46,567 and tuition of $14,190. Western Michigan University has median earnings of $45,356 and tuition of $15,298. The best choice depends on your priorities, field of study, and financial situation.

Explore Further

Central Michigan University ROI Analysis
Western Michigan University ROI Analysis