Ferris State University vs Columbia Southern University

Big Rapids, MI — Orange Beach, AL

Metric
Ferris State University
Big Rapids, MI
Columbia Southern University
Orange Beach, AL
Location Big Rapids, MI Orange Beach, AL
Type Public Private For-Profit
Total Enrollment 8,106 12,176
Acceptance Rate 91.4%
SAT Average 1,012
In-State Tuition $14,778 $6,760
Out-of-State Tuition $14,778 $6,760
Avg Net Price $8,624 $14,580
Median Debt at Graduation $21,000 $21,339
4-Year Graduation Rate 47.4% 35.3%
Retention Rate 77.6% 71.0%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $47,339 $55,140
Median Earnings (10 yr) $54,735 $63,534
Loan Repayment Rate 746100.0% 487700.0%

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

Full Profile
Ferris State University
Big Rapids, MI
View full college profile →
Full Profile
Columbia Southern University
Orange Beach, AL
View full college profile →

Frequently Asked Questions

How do Ferris State University and Columbia Southern University compare?
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. 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.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Ferris State University or Columbia Southern 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, Ferris State University or Columbia Southern 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%.

More Comparisons

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