UnisHub University Compass

Western Michigan University (WMU) : Overview, Courses, Scholarships & Rankings

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About Western Michigan University

Set on wooded hills above Kalamazoo, Western Michigan University has a reputation for hands-on learning across the arts, sciences, business, engineering, and health fields. Classes lean into projects and real research with faculty. Students find support in advising, tutoring, counseling, and a career center that helps line up internships and co-ops. Studios, labs, libraries, and a lively performing arts scene anchor the academic day.

Campus life feels friendly and spirited, with hundreds of clubs, outdoor trails, intramurals, and game days that fill the stands. The fall kickoff festival known as Bronco Bash sets the tone. Downtown is minutes away with music venues, coffee shops, and service opportunities, and there's easy access to lakes and trails. Graduates point to strong regional ties and an active alumni network. Notable Broncos include Terry Crews and NFL standout Greg Jennings.

Key Institutional Details

Contact & Profile

Location
1903 W Michigan Ave, Kalamazoo, Michigan, 49008, USA
Website
wmich.edu
Unit ID
172699

Academic & Institutional

Control
Public institution (funded by state or local government)
Accreditation
HLC
Length of Study
Programs under 2 years (e.g. certificate or diploma)
Calendar System
Semester system (two main terms per year)
Award Levels
Certificate (1-2 yrs)
Bachelor's
Postbac Cert.
Master's
Doctorate (R)
Doctorate (P)
Other Award
Campus Setting
Located in a small city (population under 100,000)
Carnegie Classification
Doctoral - R2 (High Research)
Tuition & Fees
In-State
$15,298
Tuition $15,198 + Fee $100
Out-of-State
$19,098
Tuition $18,998 + Fee $100
Student Profile
Total Students 16,693
Undergraduate 12,704
Graduate/Other 3,989
Male: 7,775 Female: 8,918
Applications
Total Applicants 20,100
Admitted 17,020
Enrolled 2,472
Acceptance: 84.7% Yield: 14.5%
Staff
Total Staff 2,794
Full-time 2,249
Part-time 545
Full-time: 80.5% Part-time: 19.5%

Academic Programs & Fields of Study

Western Michigan University (WMU) offers 186 degree programs across 27 major academic fields, graduating approximately 4,410 students annually. The most popular fields by graduate volume are Business (17 programs, 972 graduates), Health (19 programs, 522 graduates), Education (38 programs, 482 graduates), Engineering (10 programs, 316 graduates) and Interdisciplinary (8 programs, 284 graduates). Explore program details, award levels, and graduate demographics below.

Business (17 programs, 972 graduates)
Business Administration, Marketing and Entrepreneurship
Program Name Graduates Gender Distribution Award Levels CIP Code
Finance, General 202
Bachelor's
52.0801
Accounting 200
Bachelor's
Master's
52.0301
E-Commerce 128
Bachelor's
52.0208
Marketing Management 105
Bachelor's
52.1401
Marketing 99
Bachelor's
52.1499
Business Administration and Management 62
Bachelor's
Master's
52.0201
Logistics and Supply Chain Management 52
Bachelor's
Postbac Cert.
52.0203
Human Resources Management 38
Bachelor's
52.1001
Human Resources Development 16
Postbac Cert.
Master's
52.1005
Fashion Merchandising 15
Bachelor's
52.1902
Entrepreneurship Studies 14
Bachelor's
52.0701
Financial Planning and Services 14
Bachelor's
52.0804
Organizational Leadership 12
Bachelor's
52.0213
Nonprofit and Organizational Management 5
Bachelor's
52.0206
Tourism and Travel Services Marketing 5
Bachelor's
52.1905
Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods 4
Master's
52.1399
Information Resources Management 1
Bachelor's
52.1206
Health (19 programs, 522 graduates)
Healthcare Professions, Medical Sciences and Clinical Practice
Program Name Graduates Gender Distribution Award Levels CIP Code
Registered Nursing 104
Bachelor's
Master's
51.3801
Clinical Social Work 103
Master's
51.1503
Occupational Therapy 64
Bachelor's
Master's
Doctorate (P)
51.2306
Physician Assistant 56
Bachelor's
Master's
51.0912
Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology 33
Bachelor's
Other Award
51.0204
Physical Therapy 27
Doctorate (P)
51.2308
Speech-Language Pathology 24
Master's
51.0203
Mental Health Counseling 23
Master's
51.1508
Music Therapy 17
Bachelor's
Master's
51.2305
Dietetics 16
Bachelor's
Master's
51.3101
Public Health 14
Bachelor's
Master's
51.2201
Integrative Health 12
Postbac Cert.
51.3306
Marriage and Family Therapy 11
Master's
51.1505
Substance Abuse Counseling 7
Postbac Cert.
51.1501
Audiology 6
Doctorate (P)
51.0202
Health and Medical Administration 2
Bachelor's
51.0799
Health Administration and Management 1
Bachelor's
51.0701
Assistive and Rehabilitation Technology 1
Postbac Cert.
51.2312
Medical Informatics 1
Bachelor's
51.2706
Education (38 programs, 482 graduates)
Educational Sciences, Teaching Methods and Pedagogy
Program Name Graduates Gender Distribution Award Levels CIP Code
Elementary Education 48
Bachelor's
Master's
13.1202
Early Childhood Education 45
Bachelor's
Master's
13.1210
Educational Leadership and Administration 34
Master's
13.0401
Education, General 34
Bachelor's
Doctorate (R)
13.9999
English as a Second Language (ESL) Teaching 31
Postbac Cert.
Master's
13.1401
Social Studies Teacher Education 28
Bachelor's
13.1318
Special Education Teaching 26
Master's
Doctorate (R)
13.1001
Music Teacher Education 25
Bachelor's
13.1312
Education of Individuals with Vision Impairments 23
Master's
13.1009
English Language Arts Teacher Education 17
Bachelor's
13.1305
Family and Consumer Sciences Teacher Education 17
Bachelor's
Master's
13.1308
Teaching Students with Specific Learning Disabilities 16
Bachelor's
13.1011
School Counseling and Guidance 16
Master's
Doctorate (R)
13.1101
Mathematics Teacher Education 16
Bachelor's
Master's
Doctorate (R)
13.1311
Secondary Education and Teaching 15
Master's
13.1205
Science Teacher Education 12
Bachelor's
Master's
Doctorate (R)
13.1316
Teacher Education and Professional Development in Specific Subject Areas 10
Bachelor's
13.1399
Educational Evaluation and Research 9
Master's
Doctorate (R)
13.0601
Instructional Technology 7
Postbac Cert.
Master's
13.0501
Reading Teacher Education 7
Master's
13.1315
Technical Teacher Education 7
Master's
13.1319
Educational Administration and Supervision 5
Doctorate (R)
13.0499
Art Education 5
Bachelor's
13.1302
Secondary School Administration 4
Master's
13.0409
Educational Assessment and Research 4
Postbac Cert.
Doctorate (R)
13.0699
College Student Counseling and Personnel Services 4
Postbac Cert.
Master's
13.1102
Business and Innovation Entrepreneurship Teacher Education 3
Bachelor's
13.1303
Higher Education Administration 2
Doctorate (R)
13.0406
Special Education Teaching 2
Master's
13.1099
Spanish Language Teacher Education 2
Bachelor's
13.1330
Curriculum and Instruction 1
Master's
13.0301
Foundations of Education 1
Master's
13.0901
Multiple Level Teacher Education 1
Master's
13.1206
Technology and Industrial Arts Teacher Education 1
Bachelor's
13.1309
Physical Education Teaching and Coaching 1
Master's
13.1314
Trade and Industrial Teacher Education 1
Bachelor's
13.1320
Biology Teacher Education 1
Doctorate (R)
13.1322
History Teacher Education 1
Bachelor's
13.1328
Engineering (10 programs, 316 graduates)
Engineering Sciences and Applied Technology Solutions
Program Name Graduates Gender Distribution Award Levels CIP Code
Mechanical Engineering 64
Bachelor's
Master's
Doctorate (R)
14.1901
Aerospace Engineering 61
Bachelor's
Master's
14.0201
Chemical Engineering 48
Bachelor's
Master's
Doctorate (R)
14.0701
Electrical and Electronics Engineering 36
Bachelor's
Master's
Doctorate (R)
14.1001
Industrial Engineering 33
Bachelor's
Master's
Doctorate (R)
14.3501
Civil Engineering 29
Bachelor's
Master's
Doctorate (R)
14.0801
Computer Engineering 20
Bachelor's
Master's
14.0901
Paper Science and Engineering 20
Bachelor's
Master's
Doctorate (R)
14.4001
Structural Engineering 3
Bachelor's
14.0803
Engineering 2
Doctorate (R)
14.9999
Interdisciplinary (8 programs, 284 graduates)
Cross-Disciplinary Studies and Integrated Research Programs
Program Name Graduates Gender Distribution Award Levels CIP Code
Multi- and Interdisciplinary Studies 158
Bachelor's
Postbac Cert.
Master's
30.9999
Business Analytics 47
Bachelor's
Postbac Cert.
30.7102
Mathematics and Computer Science 39
Bachelor's
Master's
30.0801
Geography and Environmental Studies 20
Bachelor's
Master's
30.4401
Global Studies 14
Bachelor's
30.2001
Gerontology 2
Postbac Cert.
30.1101
Medieval and Renaissance Studies 2
Master's
30.1301
Environmental Geosciences 2
Bachelor's
30.4101
Transportation (1 programs, 266 graduates)
Logistics Management, Supply Chain and Transportation Systems
Program Name Graduates Gender Distribution Award Levels CIP Code
Aerospace Science and Technology 266
Bachelor's
49.0101
Arts (22 programs, 255 graduates)
Fine Arts, Design Studies and Creative Performance
Program Name Graduates Gender Distribution Award Levels CIP Code
Music Performance 31
Bachelor's
Master's
50.0903
Film and Video Arts 24
Bachelor's
50.0699
Industrial and Product Design 22
Bachelor's
50.0404
Dance 19
Bachelor's
Other Award
50.0399
Studio Arts, General 19
Bachelor's
50.0702
Graphic Design 18
Bachelor's
50.0409
Acting 15
Bachelor's
50.0506
Dance 14
Bachelor's
50.0301
Interior Design 14
Bachelor's
50.0408
Art Studies 13
Bachelor's
50.0701
Musical Theatre 11
Bachelor's
50.0509
Music Technology 11
Bachelor's
50.0913
Theatre Design and Technology 9
Bachelor's
50.0502
Music 7
Bachelor's
Master's
50.0901
Music Theory and Composition 5
Bachelor's
Master's
50.0904
Voice and Opera Performance 5
Bachelor's
50.0908
Jazz Studies 4
Bachelor's
50.0910
Arts and Media Management 4
Bachelor's
50.1001
Fashion and Apparel Design 3
Bachelor's
50.0407
Theatre Arts and Stagecraft 3
Bachelor's
50.0599
Conducting 3
Master's
50.0906
Art History and Conservation 1
Bachelor's
50.0703
Psychology (6 programs, 233 graduates)
Psychological Sciences, Mental Health and Behavioral Studies
Program Name Graduates Gender Distribution Award Levels CIP Code
General Psychology 143
Bachelor's
Master's
42.0101
Applied Behavior Analysis 47
Bachelor's
Master's
Doctorate (R)
42.2814
Counseling Psychology 25
Master's
Doctorate (R)
42.2803
Clinical Psychology 8
Doctorate (R)
42.2801
Industrial-Organizational Psychology 7
Master's
Doctorate (R)
42.2804
Social Psychology 3
Bachelor's
42.2707
Biological Sciences (6 programs, 165 graduates)
Life Sciences, Biotechnology and Biomedical Research
Program Name Graduates Gender Distribution Award Levels CIP Code
Biomedical Sciences 72
Bachelor's
26.0102
Biology and Biological Sciences 58
Bachelor's
Master's
Doctorate (R)
26.0101
Biochemistry 12
Bachelor's
26.0202
Biostatistics 10
Postbac Cert.
26.1102
Exercise Physiology and Kinesiology 8
Master's
26.0908
Aquatic Biology 5
Bachelor's
26.1304
Kinesiology (4 programs, 116 graduates)
Exercise Science, Sports Medicine and Physical Recreation
Program Name Graduates Gender Distribution Award Levels CIP Code
Sport and Fitness Management 68
Bachelor's
Master's
31.0504
Exercise Science and Kinesiology 45
Bachelor's
31.0505
Parks and Recreation Management 2
Bachelor's
31.0301
Parks, Recreation, and Leisure Studies 1
Bachelor's
31.0101

Admission Requirements & Test Scores

Comprehensive overview of admission criteria, standardized test score ranges, and application requirements for prospective students at Western Michigan University (WMU).

Application Requirements

Secondary School GPA
Required
Secondary School Record
Required
College Preparatory Program
Required
English Proficiency Test (TOEFL)
Required
Standardized Test Scores
SAT Scores
The SAT is a standardized college admission test measuring reading, writing, and math skills. Scores range from 400-1600 (combined Evidence-Based Reading & Writing + Math sections).
Composite Score Range
990 - 1220
25th-75th percentile
Evidence-Based Reading & Writing 500 - 620
Median: 560
Math 490 - 600
Median: 540
ACT Scores
The ACT is a standardized test for college admissions assessing English, math, reading, and science reasoning. Scores range from 1-36 (composite of all sections).
Composite Score Range
20 - 27
25th-75th percentile
English 18 - 26
Median: 24
Math 20 - 26
Median: 23

Data based on IPEDS for 2022-2023 academic year. Test score ranges represent the middle 50% of admitted students (25th-75th percentile). Requirements may vary by program.

Tuition, Fees & Estimated Costs

Overview of tuition rates, housing, and other annual education expenses for undergraduate and graduate students

Estimated Total Cost
(In-state)
$30,770
Estimated Total Cost
(Out-state)
$34,570
In-state Tuition (incl. fees)
$15,298
Tuition and fees for students residing in-state
Out-of-state Tuition (incl. fees)
$19,098
Tuition and fees for non-resident students
Room & Board
$11,713
Housing and meal plan expenses
Books & Supplies
$1,128
Average yearly cost of books and study materials
Other Expenses
$2,631
Miscellaneous personal and institutional expenses
Other Expenses (with family)
$3,759
Estimated cost for students living with family
Graduate In-state Tuition (incl. fees)
$19,277
Graduate tuition rates for in-state students
Graduate Out-of-state Tuition (incl. fees)
$28,454
Graduate tuition rates for non-resident students

Financial Aid & Student Support

Summary of scholarships, grants, student loans, and financial aid statistics for undergraduate students

19%
FTFT Aid Recipients
Avg. Grant
$8,217
Avg. Loan
$8,346
Avg. Federal Loan
$5,164
Additional
Students with Any Grant
2,339
Students who received any type of grant aid
Students with Any Loan
1,360
Students who received any type of loan-based aid
Students with Federal Grant
703
Students who received a federal grant
Avg. Institutional Grant
$6,531
Average amount of institutional grant awarded

Student Success Metrics

Graduation rates and post-graduation earnings to help assess student outcomes and long-term value of education.

58%
Graduation Rate
Percentage of students who successfully graduate from the institution
80%
First-Year Retention Rate
Percentage of first-year students who continue for a second year
Median Earnings Over Time
$34,853 – $76,786
Salary Range (25th–75th Percentile, 10 Years)
$34,853 (25th %) $76,786 (75th %)
*Median Salary After 10 Years: $53,562
Median Salary After 6 Years
$45,356
Average annual earnings of former students six years after starting college.
Median Salary After 10 Years
$53,562
Average annual earnings of former students ten years after starting college.

Loan Burden & Repayment Outcomes

Breakdown of loan repayment rates and student debt levels by income and dependency status.

3-Year Loan Repayment Rate
55.6%
Share of borrowers who repaid loans within 3 years
Repayment Rate (Graduates Only)
67.1%
Repayment rate among students who completed their program
Median Student Loan Debt
$26,188
Median federal loan debt of undergraduate completers at time of graduation.
Repayment by Income
Low 43.8%
Middle 56.2%
High 65.8%
Repayment by Dependency
Dependent 58.2%
Independent 44.1%

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to the most common questions about Western Michigan University (WMU)

How much does it cost to attend Western Michigan University (WMU)?

The annual tuition at Western Michigan University (WMU) is $15,298 for in-state students and $19,098 for out-of-state students. When including room and board, books, and other expenses, the total estimated cost is approximately $30,770 for in-state students and $34,570 for out-of-state students. Additional costs include room and board $11,713 and books and supplies $1,128.

Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2022-2023 academic year. Tuition and cost estimates are approximate and may not include all fees, personal expenses, or transportation costs.

What academic programs and degree levels does Western Michigan University offer?

Western Michigan University (WMU) offers 186 academic programs across 27 major fields of study, with available degree levels: Certificate (1-2 yrs), Bachelor's, Postbac Cert., Master's, Doctorate (Research), Doctorate (Professional), Other Award.

Most popular program areas include:

  • Business Administration, Marketing and Entrepreneurship (17 programs)
  • Healthcare Professions, Medical Sciences and Clinical Practice (19 programs)
  • Educational Sciences, Teaching Methods and Pedagogy (38 programs)
  • Engineering Sciences and Applied Technology Solutions (10 programs)
  • Cross-Disciplinary Studies and Integrated Research Programs (8 programs)

Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2023-2024 academic year. Numbers reflect programs where students graduated, not all offered programs.

What is the acceptance rate for Western Michigan University?

Western Michigan University (WMU) has an 84.7% acceptance rate and a 14.5% yield rate, making it moderately selective.

Admission statistics breakdown:

  • Total applicants: 20,100
  • Students admitted: 17,020
  • Students enrolled: 2,472

Data based on IPEDS for 2022-2023 academic year. Admission statistics may vary by program and application cycle.

What financial aid and scholarships are available at Western Michigan University?

Western Michigan University (WMU) provides financial aid to 19% of first-time, full-time students, with average grants of $8,217 and average loans of $8,346.

Average financial aid amounts by type:

  • Pell grants: $5,150
  • State/Local grants: $1,605
  • Institutional grants: $6,531
  • Federal loans: $5,164

The university supports 2,339 students with grants and 1,360 students with loans annually.

Data based on IPEDS for 2022-2023 academic year. Financial aid amounts and percentages may vary by program, enrollment status, and individual circumstances.

What is the average salary for Western Michigan University graduates?

Western Michigan University (WMU) graduates earn a median salary of $45,356 after 6 years and $53,562 after 10 years.

The salary range 10 years after graduation spans from $34,853 (25th percentile) to $76,786 (75th percentile), with top earners reaching $80,600 (90th percentile).

Data based on IPEDS for 2022-2023 academic year. Salary data reflects graduates who received federal financial aid (approximately 60% of all graduates). Actual earnings may vary significantly based on program, location, and individual circumstances.

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