Ferris State University, located in Big Rapids, Michigan, is renowned for its commitment to providing a practical, hands-on education that prepares students for successful careers. Established in 1884, the university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various fields, including business, engineering, health professions, and the arts. The university’s motto, "The Great State of Ferris," reflects its dedication to offering quality education and fostering a strong sense of community among students and faculty. With a focus on experiential learning, Ferris State emphasizes internships, cooperative education, and real-world projects, ensuring that students graduate with relevant skills and experience.

The campus is home to state-of-the-art facilities, including advanced laboratories, modern classrooms, and recreational centers that promote a vibrant student life. Ferris State is particularly known for its strong emphasis on technology and health sciences, catering to the growing demand for qualified professionals in these fields. Additionally, the university encourages participation in various sports and extracurricular activities, fostering a well-rounded student experience. The welcoming and inclusive campus culture enhances the educational journey, allowing students to engage in diverse clubs, organizations, and community service opportunities. Overall, Ferris State University stands out as an institution that not only emphasizes academic excellence but also nurtures personal growth and community engagement.

Analysis of Key Trends at Ferris State University

Ferris State University, as a public institution, has seen notable trends in tuition, graduation rates, and student demographics over recent years. The tuition for in-state undergraduate students has steadily increased from $10,220 in 2014 to $14,246 in 2024, marking a significant rise of approximately 39.5% over the span of a decade. This tuition hike is reflective of broader trends in higher education, where rising costs are becoming a critical issue for many students and their families.

In terms of student retention, the retention rate for undergraduate students has shown relative stability, fluctuating between 75.9% and 79.8% from 2013 to 2023. However, it has not shown significant improvement, which raises concerns about student satisfaction and support services at the university. The need for effective retention strategies is paramount, particularly as tuition costs rise and students seek value in their educational investments.

Graduation rates tell a more positive story, particularly for on-time graduation among undergraduates, which increased from 19.2% in 2013 to an impressive 36.4% in 2023. This nearly doubling of the graduation rate within a decade indicates successful academic initiatives and support structures that may be positively influencing student outcomes.

Additionally, the gender ratio among graduates reflects a growing trend of female representation in higher education, with women making up approximately 67% of graduate students in 2023. This shift highlights the changing landscape of education, where women's participation continues to rise, potentially leading to a more balanced workforce in the future.

Overall, while Ferris State University faces challenges related to tuition affordability and student retention, the improvements in graduation rates and shifts in gender demographics present opportunities for further development and enhancement of the educational experience.

Analysis of Graduation Data at Ferris State University

The data reveals significant insights into the distribution of graduates across various programs at Ferris State University for the year 2023. Notably, the field of Criminal Justice/Police Science stands out with 135 bachelor's degree recipients, reflecting its prominence and appeal in the current societal landscape where public safety and law enforcement are increasingly critical. This trend may be influenced by ongoing discussions around criminal justice reform and public safety, driving student interest in this discipline.

In contrast, the health-related fields showcase a distinct pattern, particularly with the absence of bachelor's graduates in Pharmacy and Medical Radiologic Technology, although there are doctoral graduates in the latter. This could indicate a shift towards advanced education paths in the health sciences, where students may prefer pursuing master's or doctorate degrees to enhance their career prospects in a competitive job market, especially in health professions that are witnessing growth due to an aging population.

Furthermore, the lack of international students graduating in several programs suggests potential barriers to entry for non-domestic students, which may be influenced by visa regulations or the nature of the programs themselves. It is essential for educational institutions to address these gaps to foster a more inclusive environment that attracts diverse talent.

Overall, the graduation data from Ferris State University reflects broader educational trends and societal needs, particularly in justice and health sectors, highlighting the importance of adapting academic offerings to meet evolving workforce demands and global challenges.

Analysis of Admission Trends at Ferris State University

The admission statistics for Ferris State University reveal a significant evolution in both acceptance rates and enrollment figures over the years. Notably, the male admission rate has fluctuated, peaking at approximately 86% in 2020, while the female admission rate reached a high of about 87% in the same year. These figures indicate a broader trend of increasing accessibility for students during this period, likely influenced by various factors including changes in application dynamics and possibly the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to shifts in university admissions strategies. However, the overall national university ranking has shown a downward trend, dropping from 293 in 2020 to 331 in 2023. This decline could reflect challenges faced by the institution in maintaining competitive standards amidst rising academic expectations across the country. It raises questions about how the university intends to balance accessibility with maintaining academic rigor, especially as declining rankings can influence prospective students' perceptions. Enrollment numbers also demonstrate variability, with a peak of 2,139 students in 2009, declining to 1,405 in 2022, before rising again to 1,744 in 2023. This fluctuation could indicate changing student interests and external factors affecting higher education choices. Moreover, the number of denied applications remains consistently high, with over 5,000 rejections recorded in several years, emphasizing the competitive nature of admissions despite the high acceptance rates. As Ferris State University navigates these challenges, its focus on attracting diverse student demographics while enhancing academic quality will be crucial for future success and reputation.

Analysis of Admission Test Scores and Submission Rates at Ferris State University

The admission data for Ferris State University over the years reveals a notable trend in the submission rates and performance on standardized tests such as the ACT and SAT. From 2007 to 2023, the percentage of admitted students who submitted ACT scores has remained impressively high, often exceeding 95%. However, a shift is noticeable in the SAT submission rates, which started at a mere 14% in 2016 and fluctuated significantly in subsequent years, peaking at 85% in 2018 before dropping to 63% by 2023.

The ACT scores indicate a consistent performance among the admitted students, with the 75th percentile scores hovering in the mid-20s range, reflecting a stable academic caliber. On the other hand, SAT scores show a wider range, particularly in the reading and math sections, where the 25th and 75th percentile scores have shown variations. This variability could suggest changes in the applicant pool or shifts in testing strategies among prospective students.

Moreover, the decline in SAT submission rates suggests a growing preference for ACT submissions or perhaps a trend related to the test-optional policies that some universities have adopted in recent years. This trend is aligned with national conversations about the relevance of standardized testing in evaluating a student’s potential.

In conclusion, while Ferris State University maintains a strong emphasis on ACT scores, the changing landscape of SAT submissions and the overall performance metrics provide a valuable insight into the evolving criteria for college admissions and the academic preparedness of incoming students. The university's ability to adapt to these changes will be crucial in maintaining its appeal to prospective students.

Analysis of Student Demographics at Ferris State University in 2023

The student demographics at Ferris State University reveal interesting insights into the composition of the student body for the year 2023. Notably, there are 1,746 new undergraduate students, with a gender distribution indicating that 44.2% are male and 55.8% are female. This pattern of a higher female representation is consistent across the undergraduate population, where the returning students show a slight increase in female enrollment, with 51.4% being women.

The transfer students also reflect a similar trend, with 44.2% males and 55.8% females. However, the graduate student demographic is significantly different, showing a stark contrast in gender distribution, with only 33% male and 67% female. This suggests a growing trend of women pursuing advanced degrees, which is reflective of broader societal changes where women are increasingly prioritizing education and professional advancement.

When analyzing the racial and ethnic composition of students, the data indicates that the majority of the student body is white, followed by other racial and ethnic groups, although specific breakdowns for the latter groups are not provided in the 2023 data. This highlights ongoing discussions around diversity and inclusion in higher education, as institutions strive to create a more equitable environment for students from all backgrounds.

Overall, these trends at Ferris State University mirror national patterns in higher education, where women are outpacing men in enrollment, especially in graduate programs. This demographic shift may have implications for future educational policies and support systems aimed at fostering a diverse and inclusive academic community.

Analysis of Student Age Composition at Ferris State University

The age composition of students at Ferris State University in 2023 reflects a diverse range of learners, with a significant concentration in the traditional undergraduate age brackets. The data reveals that the majority of students are under the age of 24, indicating a strong presence of younger individuals pursuing higher education. Specifically, those aged 18-19 represent 29.9% of the total student body, while students aged 20-21 account for 31.4%. This trend is consistent with national statistics, where younger students dominate university enrollments, often seeking to complete their degrees before entering the workforce.

Interestingly, as students progress beyond the age of 24, the numbers begin to decline significantly. The 22-24 age group comprises 23.7% of the total, and beyond this point, the representation of students decreases sharply. For instance, those aged 25-29 make up only 6.6% of the total population, while the percentages for older age brackets (30-34, 35-39, etc.) further diminish, highlighting a potential gap in educational engagement among non-traditional students.

Moreover, the gender distribution appears relatively balanced in the younger age groups, yet a more pronounced gender disparity emerges in the older categories. This might suggest that while younger women are equally or more represented, mature students, particularly men, are less likely to pursue advanced degrees. Overall, the data from Ferris State University emphasizes the importance of creating supportive environments for older and non-traditional students, which could enhance their educational experiences and outcomes in the evolving landscape of higher education.

Trends in International Student Enrollment at Ferris State University

The data on international student enrollment at Ferris State University reveals a notable downward trend in both undergraduate and graduate student populations over the years. From 2004 to 2023, the total number of undergraduate students decreased from 10,767 to 9,000, reflecting a significant decline in overall enrollment. Correspondingly, the number of international undergraduates has also dropped from 200 to just 103, resulting in a decrease in the percentage of international students from 1.86% to 1.14%.

For graduate students, the situation appears somewhat more stable, but still showcases a decline. The total graduate population has slightly diminished from 479 in 2004 to 1,072 in 2023, with international graduate students falling from 43 to 32. The percentage of international graduate students has fluctuated more, peaking at 10.83% in 2016 before settling at 2.99% in 2023.

This decline in international enrollment can be attributed to several factors, including changing immigration policies, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, and increasing competition from other universities. The decreasing trend may also reflect broader challenges faced by U.S. higher education institutions in attracting international students, who are crucial for diversity and the financial health of universities.

As universities adapt to these challenges, it is essential for institutions like Ferris State to explore new strategies for recruitment and retention of international students to reverse this trend and foster a more inclusive academic environment.

Here are some notable universities surrounding Ferris State University:

1. University of Michigan-Ann Arbor - Ranked 21st in the 2025 US News rankings, this is a prestigious research university known for its diverse programs and vibrant campus life.

2. Michigan State University - With a ranking of 63, MSU is renowned for its strong emphasis on research, particularly in agricultural sciences and education.

3. University of Notre Dame - This university holds the 18th rank and is famed for its rigorous academics, beautiful campus, and strong emphasis on Catholic values.

4. Northwestern University - Ranked 6th, Northwestern is an elite private research university known for its programs in journalism, business, and the performing arts.

5. Grand Valley State University - With a ranking of 244, GVSU offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs and is known for its commitment to community service.

6. Kalamazoo College - This liberal arts college, ranked 69th, is recognized for its strong focus on experiential learning and study abroad programs.

These institutions provide a rich academic environment and numerous opportunities for collaboration and growth.

Analysis of Crime Data at Ferris State University

The crime data at Ferris State University over the past decade showcases a notable trend in campus safety and crime rates. From 2013 to 2023, there has been a significant decline in the average number of crimes per 1,000 students, which dropped from 15.48 incidents in 2013 to 14.59 in 2023. This overall decrease suggests that the university may have implemented effective measures to enhance campus security and promote student safety.

Particularly alarming were the statistics related to gun arrests and drug-related offenses. In the earlier years, such incidents were more prevalent, but as the years progressed, there was a marked reduction. For instance, the rate of gun arrests decreased significantly, highlighting a positive shift towards a safer campus environment. The decline in drug and alcohol arrests also indicates a potential improvement in student behavior or more effective prevention programs.

However, it's crucial to remain vigilant, as the crime rate fluctuated with peaks and troughs. For example, the average crime rate spiked in 2015, suggesting that external factors may have contributed to this increase. The data from 2021, showing the lowest rate of 8.22 incidents per 1,000 students, is particularly encouraging, yet the subsequent rise in 2023 to 14.59 raises concerns that continuous monitoring and intervention may still be necessary.

Overall, while the trend seems positive, ongoing efforts to ensure safety and address any emerging issues are essential for maintaining a secure learning environment at Ferris State University. For further details on crime rate calculations, you can refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation.