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Northern Michigan University

Marquette, Michigan · Public

Ranked #49 US News
$17k/yearCost after aid
Feb 1Application deadline

FindU Grade

B-Value
N/ACampus
B+Academics
CAdmissions
A-Student Life
BOverall

About

Northern Michigan University is located in Marquette, Michigan. It is a public institution. The university enrolls approximately 6,425 students.

nmu.edu

Cost and aid

True cost

$17kper year

Compared to $17k national average

Cost breakdown

In-state tuition$13,304
Out-of-state tuition$18,800
Room & board$12,752
Avg aid package$9,008
Students receiving aid27%
Pell grant recipients27%

Northern Michigan University is committed to making quality education affordable, with 96% of students receiving financial aid. The average total aid awarded is around $9,008, and NMU offers in-state tuition rates to students regardless of their residency with a qualifying GPA. NMU also participates in the Tuition Advantage Program for qualifying students.

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Admissions

Application info

Acceptance rate70%
Average GPA3.00
Student–faculty ratio18:1
Test optionalYes
Common AppYes
Application fee$0

Application dates

Regular DecisionFeb 1

Northern Michigan University has a moderately selective admissions process with an acceptance rate of around 70%. NMU does not require SAT/ACT scores and has no application fee. The university looks for students with a minimum GPA of 2.25, with competitive applicants often having a GPA of 3.0 or higher.

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Academics

Graduation rate52%
Retention rate76%
Student–faculty ratio18:1
Full-time faculty74%

NMU is known for its small class sizes and accessible faculty who prioritize student success. The university emphasizes hands-on learning and research opportunities across various disciplines. With over 170 degree programs, NMU integrates traditional academics with cutting-edge technology, offering unique programs like cold-climate forensic anthropology and northern climate indoor agriculture.

Outcomes

Median earnings (10 yrs)$47,107
Avg starting salary$39,200
Job placement rate96%
Earn more than HS grad65%
Economic mobility134%
Loan default (3 yr)8%
Loan repayment (3 yr)57%

NMU prides itself on preparing students for the modern workforce through experiential learning opportunities such as internships and research projects. Graduates enjoy a 96% employment rate or continued education. The university's Career Services Center provides comprehensive support, connecting students with opportunities and offering career counseling even after graduation.

Student life

Demographics

Medium School
6,425Student size

Compared to 5,382 national average

More femaleGender ratio
Female 61%Male 39%
85% WhiteRacial diversity
White 85%Hispanic 4%Black 1%Asian 1%Other 8%
Campus housingYes

Northern Michigan University offers a close-knit, welcoming community with a strong sense of belonging. Students enjoy a vibrant campus life with numerous clubs, organizations, and NCAA Division II athletics. The university's location near Lake Superior provides access to outdoor activities, fostering a unique college experience for nature enthusiasts.

Student reviews

Campus and vibes

Sophomore

Northern is the place to go if you value your education. They provide real-life learning experiences for education majors. The city of Marquette is gorgeous, and there's always something to do. If you love nature, this is the University for you! The campus is surrounded by hiking trails, mountain biking, and winter sports activities. The biggest benefit to being a student at NMU is the community you become a part of. No matter your interests or personality, there is a group of students that you will belong to!

Freshman

I love it here so much. I was really scared to go to college I thought it would be horrible honestly. From the second I moved in on campus I've felt at home. Classes have been alright. I'm an Art Education major so my art classes have been mostly foundational at this point. The professors have been super understanding and willing to answer my thousands of questions.

Freshman

My experiences at Northern Michigan University have been really positive, even before I started going to school here. I love the genuine connections I have made with everyone in my dorm. I feel like the suite-style dorms have made it easier to connect with my suite mates and make actual friendships.

Junior

I have only spent a month living on campus so far; however, from what I have gathered, the community seems to be very friendly and safe. One of my favorite differences from my last college campus and NMU is that people smile back when you smile at them. All the workers are enthusiastic and respond to emails within a day.

Cost and value

Freshman

I am not dorming, but the dorms seem awful expensive for what they are so do with that as you will. There are plenty of resources but I really do think that university's should be more forthcoming with their cost as on top of my tuition I had to pay 400+ dollar fees for sports and a "university fee".

About Northern Michigan University

NMU ranks among the safest public universities in both Michigan and the country. The university provides 24/7 emergency phone and alarm devices, electronically controlled dormitory entrances, and a security patrol that operates around the clock. An after-hours transportation/escort service is also available to ensure student safety.

The NMU Honors Program offers special seminars and research opportunities for high-achieving students. The program fosters critical thinking and encourages students to be open to new experiences. Honors students participate in conferences and engage in research initiatives, with the Honors Program moving to a brand new location in Harden Hall in late 2025.

Northern Michigan University welcomes international students, with approximately 1% of the student body coming from abroad. The university provides support and resources for international students, fostering a multicultural learning environment. Students from 46 countries are represented at NMU, with the majority coming from Canada, the United Kingdom, and Sweden.

Endowment$17,914,946
Avg faculty salary$105,528

Northern Michigan University FAQ

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Northern Michigan University admits about 70% of applicants. But your real odds are personal. They depend on your grades, scores, and story. Answer a few quick questions and FindU calculates your match.

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Your SAT 1380Admit range 1230–1480
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