Central Michigan University vs Western Michigan University

Mount Pleasant, MI — Kalamazoo, MI

Metric
Central Michigan University
Mount Pleasant, MI
Western Michigan University
Kalamazoo, MI
Location Mount Pleasant, MI Kalamazoo, MI
Type Public Public
Total Enrollment 10,035 12,568
Acceptance Rate 89.8% 84.6%
SAT Average 1,091
In-State Tuition $14,760 $15,252
Out-of-State Tuition $14,760 $19,034
Avg Net Price $17,597 $15,273
Median Debt at Graduation $27,000 $26,188
4-Year Graduation Rate 60.4% 57.7%
Retention Rate 75.4% 81.1%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $46,567 $45,356
Median Earnings (10 yr) $55,874 $53,562
Loan Repayment Rate 959200.0% 930800.0%

Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.

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Central Michigan University
Mount Pleasant, MI
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Western Michigan University
Kalamazoo, MI
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Central Michigan University and Western Michigan University compare?
Central Michigan University (Mount Pleasant, MI) has an acceptance rate of 89.8%, in-state tuition of $14,760, and median 10-year earnings of $55,874. Western Michigan University (Kalamazoo, MI) has an acceptance rate of 84.6%, in-state tuition of $15,252, and median 10-year earnings of $53,562.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Central Michigan University or Western Michigan University?
Central Michigan University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $55,874 vs $53,562. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Central Michigan University or Western Michigan University?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Western Michigan University is the more affordable option at $15,273 per year versus $17,597.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
Central Michigan University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 60.4% vs 57.7%.

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All data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. PlainCollege is not affiliated with any government agency.

Related

Source: U.S. Department of Education — College Scorecard College Scorecard institution outcomes (earnings, completion, debt) · 2025