Western Michigan University vs Central Michigan University
Kalamazoo, MI — Mount Pleasant, MI
| Metric | Western Michigan University Kalamazoo, MI | Central Michigan University Mount Pleasant, MI |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Kalamazoo, MI | Mount Pleasant, MI |
| Type | Public | Public |
| Total Enrollment | 12,568 | 10,035 |
| Acceptance Rate | 84.6% | 89.8% |
| SAT Average | — | 1,091 |
| In-State Tuition | $15,252 | $14,760 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $19,034 | $14,760 |
| Avg Net Price | $15,273 | $17,597 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $26,188 | $27,000 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 57.7% | 60.4% |
| Retention Rate | 81.1% | 75.4% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $45,356 | $46,567 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $53,562 | $55,874 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 930800.0% | 959200.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
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Western Michigan University
Kalamazoo, MI
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Central Michigan University
Mount Pleasant, MI
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do Western Michigan University and Central Michigan University compare?▼
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. 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.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Western Michigan University or Central 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, Western Michigan University or Central 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