Columbia Southern University vs Ferris State University
Orange Beach, AL — Big Rapids, MI
| Metric | Columbia Southern University Orange Beach, AL | Ferris State University Big Rapids, MI |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Orange Beach, AL | Big Rapids, MI |
| Type | Private For-Profit | Public |
| Total Enrollment | 12,176 | 8,106 |
| Acceptance Rate | — | 91.4% |
| SAT Average | — | 1,012 |
| In-State Tuition | $6,760 | $14,778 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $6,760 | $14,778 |
| Avg Net Price | $14,580 | $8,624 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $21,339 | $21,000 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 35.3% | 47.4% |
| Retention Rate | 71.0% | 77.6% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $55,140 | $47,339 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $63,534 | $54,735 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 487700.0% | 746100.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
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Columbia Southern University
Orange Beach, AL
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Ferris State University
Big Rapids, MI
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do Columbia Southern University and Ferris State University compare?▼
Columbia Southern University (Orange Beach, AL) has no published acceptance rate, in-state tuition of $6,760, and median 10-year earnings of $63,534. Ferris State University (Big Rapids, MI) has an acceptance rate of 91.4%, in-state tuition of $14,778, and median 10-year earnings of $54,735.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Columbia Southern University or Ferris State University?▼
Columbia Southern University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $63,534 vs $54,735. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Columbia Southern University or Ferris State University?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Ferris State University is the more affordable option at $8,624 per year versus $14,580.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
Ferris State University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 47.4% vs 35.3%.
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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