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Grand Valley State University vs Michigan State University

2

Grand Valley State University

5

Michigan State University

Key Metrics Compared

Official Data
Metric Grand Valley State University Michigan State University Winner
Acceptance Rate 95% 84% Michigan State University
Graduation Rate 67% 82% Michigan State University
Avg Earnings (5yr) $47,840 $55,084 Michigan State University
Median Debt $24,500 $23,250 Michigan State University
Tuition (In-State) $14,628 $15,988 Grand Valley State University
Retention Rate 77% 91% Michigan State University
Financial Aid 49% 33% Grand Valley State University

Comparison Analysis

Michigan State University graduates earn more than Grand Valley State University graduates. The median earnings for Michigan State University alumni are $55,084, while Grand Valley State University alumni earn $47,840. Michigan State University also has a higher graduation rate, with 81.9% of students graduating compared to Grand Valley State University's 67.4% graduation rate. Grand Valley State University has a higher acceptance rate, accepting 94.7% of applicants, while Michigan State University accepts 83.9%.

The tuition at Michigan State University is $15,988, which is slightly higher than Grand Valley State University's tuition of $14,628. Given the higher earnings and graduation rate, Michigan State University may offer a better value proposition for students prioritizing those factors.

Students should consider their priorities when deciding between these schools. If a student prioritizes a higher acceptance rate and lower tuition, Grand Valley State University may be a better fit. If a student prioritizes higher earnings and a higher graduation rate, Michigan State University may be the better choice.

Generated from College Scorecard & IPEDS data

Shared Programs

Shared Major Grand Valley State University Earnings Michigan State University Earnings Difference
Biology, General $40,959 $26,435 55% favor Grand Valley State University
Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication $38,172 $45,158 18% favor Michigan State University
Finance and Financial Management Services $52,872 $68,103 29% favor Michigan State University
Psychology, General $30,100 $30,164 0% favor Michigan State University
Health and Physical Education/Fitness $29,913 $28,045 7% favor Grand Valley State University
Business Administration, Management and Operations $57,760 $71,253 23% favor Michigan State University
Marketing $46,022 $57,275 24% favor Michigan State University
Communication and Media Studies $32,755 $36,390 11% favor Michigan State University
Business Administration, Management and Operations $0 $71,253
Communication and Media Studies $48,689 $36,390 34% favor Grand Valley State University

Quick Facts

Type Public
Location Allendale, MI
Setting Town
Students 19,073
Type Public
Location East Lansing, MI
Setting City
Students 40,243

Other Comparisons

Frequently Asked Questions

Grand Valley State University has median earnings of $47,840 and tuition of $14,628. Michigan State University has median earnings of $55,084 and tuition of $15,988. The best choice depends on your priorities, field of study, and financial situation.

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