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Private nonprofit, 4-year

Kettering University

Flint, Michigan · www.kettering.edu

中文

Acceptance rate

78.7%

2025

Peer median 77.9%

Tuition per year

$46,425

$56,825 with room and board

Peer median $34,392

Undergraduates

1,212

Student-faculty ratio 11:1

Peer median 13 : 1

Graduation rate

9.9%

4-year; 6-year rate 69.3%

Peer median 44.6%

“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).

About

Kettering University, located in Flint, Michigan, is renowned for its focus on engineering, mathematics, and management disciplines. Established in 1919, the university has a rich history of providing high-quality education that emphasizes experiential learning. One of the university's most distinctive features is its co-op program, which integrates academic learning with hands-on work experience. This program allows students to gain valuable industry experience while pursuing their degrees, making them highly attractive to employers upon graduation. Kettering's commitment to preparing students for the workforce is reflected in its impressive graduate employment rates, with many securing positions at leading companies in various sectors.

The campus culture at Kettering University is vibrant and community-oriented, fostering a collaborative environment among students. With a strong emphasis on teamwork and innovation, students often engage in various extracurricular activities, including engineering competitions and student organizations. The university's motto, "Education for the Real World," encapsulates its mission to equip students with the practical skills and knowledge necessary for success in their careers. In addition to its academic rigor, Kettering boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including modern laboratories and collaborative spaces, which enhance the learning experience. Overall, Kettering University stands out for its dedication to developing future leaders in technology and engineering through a unique blend of academic excellence and real-world experience.

Analysis of Key Metrics at Kettering University

Kettering University, a private institution, has shown notable trends in tuition fees, student enrollment, and graduation rates over the years. Firstly, tuition for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students has steadily increased from $35,600 in 2014 to $45,380 in 2024. This significant rise in tuition may reflect the broader trend in higher education, where tuition costs have consistently outpaced inflation. As prospective students consider their options, this financial burden could lead to increased scrutiny over the value provided by private institutions compared to public ones.

In terms of enrollment, the undergraduate student count has experienced a decline from 1,684 in 2014 to 1,422 in 2023. This drop may indicate a shifting landscape in higher education preferences or increased competition among institutions. Such reductions in enrollment can also impact funding and resources available to the university, potentially affecting the quality of education and campus facilities.

Graduation rates present a mixed picture. The timely graduation rate saw a slight increase from 5.79% in 2013 to 10.16% in 2023, albeit still low. In contrast, the extended graduation rate (150% of the normal time) improved significantly from 57.87% to 67.03% in the same period. This suggests that while fewer students are graduating on time, those who do remain enrolled tend to complete their degrees eventually, possibly benefiting from more flexible academic paths or part-time study options.

Lastly, retention rates have shown some fluctuations, peaking at approximately 95% in 2017 but dropping to around 87% in 2023. This decline may correlate with the decreasing undergraduate population, suggesting that keeping students engaged and satisfied with their educational experience is increasingly challenging.

In summary, Kettering University's data highlight critical areas for improvement, particularly in managing tuition increases, fostering student enrollment, and enhancing the graduation experience to ensure that students not only start but also finish their academic journeys successfully.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Small city
Nearest major city
Detroit, about 50 mi
Nearest international airport
Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW), about 60 mi
Flint, Michigan
Also known as
GMI Engineering & Management Institute
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Not applicable
President
Robert K. McMahan, Jr. (President)
Phone
8009554464
City
Flint, Michigan
Address
1700 University Avenue, Flint, MI 48504-6214

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

Peer median 77.9% · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
79.4%
Women
76.7%

In 2020: men 75.0%, women 68.1%.

Data insights

Kettering University's Admission Trends

The admission data from Kettering University over the years indicates a notable trend in the acceptance rates for both male and female applicants. Starting from 2009, the overall acceptance rates show a gradual increase for male students, peaking in 2022 at approximately 85.5%. This is a significant rise, reflecting a shift towards a more inclusive admission policy or possibly a response to a larger applicant pool. In contrast, the acceptance rates for female students have also improved, reaching around 85.8% in 2022, suggesting that the university is making strides in gender inclusivity.
The enrollment numbers have varied, with a peak of 442 students in 2009, but showing a general decrease in recent years. This decline in enrollment figures, despite the improved acceptance rates, might be indicative of a more competitive landscape in higher education or a shift in student interests and preferences.
Moreover, the number of students denied admission has fluctuated significantly, which could point to the university's efforts to refine its selection criteria. The relatively high number of deferred admissions in many years, particularly in 2010 and 2011, could signal a cautious approach to managing the quality of incoming classes.
Overall, Kettering University's data suggests a positive trend towards broader access and gender equity in admissions, while also hinting at the challenges faced in maintaining enrollment numbers in a changing educational environment.

School and Program Rankings

U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking

Undergraduate Rankings · 2027 edition

Computer Science#276▼31

Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition

Test Scores

2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 33% submitted SAT, 5% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted

SAT total1160–1330Peer median 1158
ACT composite26–30
SAT Reading
580–660
600700800
SAT Math
580–670
600700800
ACT composite
26–30
253036

Data insights

Trends in Admissions Data at Kettering University

The admissions data from Kettering University reveals significant trends over the years, particularly in standardized test scores and the percentage of applicants submitting scores. Notably, the number of SAT submissions peaked at 306 in 2019, indicating a growing interest in the university during that period. The percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores has also increased substantially, reaching as high as 89% in 2020 and 2021. This trend may correlate with a broader national dialogue emphasizing the importance of standardized testing in college admissions, particularly during the pandemic, when many institutions temporarily shifted to test-optional policies.

In terms of score ranges, the SAT reading and math scores for the 25th percentile have shown an upward trajectory, with the lower bounds rising from 520 in 2007 to 560 by 2023. Conversely, the upper bounds have also improved, indicating that not only are more students applying, but those who do are increasingly competitive. The ACT scores reveal a similar pattern, highlighting a consistent rise in the overall academic preparedness of admitted students.

These trends suggest that Kettering University is attracting a stronger cohort of students, which may enhance its academic reputation. As competition in higher education continues to escalate, particularly among STEM-focused institutions, maintaining a robust admissions process will be critical. The data indicates that Kettering is not only responding to these challenges but is also positioning itself as an attractive option for high-achieving students. Overall, the university appears to be in a strong position as it navigates the evolving landscape of college admissions.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 8 in 10

2,161 applicants in 2025, 78.7% admitted

1,700 admitted 461 not admitted Yield 15.5%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Bachelor's2986 international (2.0%)
Master's14238 international (26.8%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Mechanical Engineering
133
Computer Science
45
Electrical and Electronics Engineering
36
Computer Engineering, General
26
Chemical Engineering
20
Industrial Engineering
20
Business Administration and Management, General
6
Engineering, General
4
Biochemistry
4
Applied Mathematics, General
2

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Business Administration and Management, General · Master's48 (2% international)
  • Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services, Other · Master's21 (10% international)
  • Engineering Science · Master's19 (79% international)
  • Operations Management and Supervision · Master's16 (0% international)
  • Engineering/Industrial Management · Master's13 (23% international)
  • Management Science · Master's10 (90% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Trends at Kettering University in 2023

Kettering University has demonstrated a strong emphasis on engineering disciplines in its graduation statistics for 2023. Notably, Mechanical Engineering stands out with 152 bachelor's graduates, significantly surpassing other programs. This trend aligns with the growing demand for engineers in various industries, especially as technology continues to evolve. Additionally, the presence of nine international students highlights Kettering's appeal to a global audience, which is crucial for fostering diverse perspectives in engineering solutions.

In contrast, Business Administration shows a modest output with only 50 master's graduates, indicating that while business skills are in demand, the university may not be a primary choice for students seeking advanced business degrees. The international representation in this field is low as well, suggesting potential areas for growth in attracting overseas students.

Interestingly, Engineering/Industrial Management and Logistics also reflect a blend of engineering with business, with 27 master's graduates and 5 international students. This indicates a recognition of the importance of management skills in technical fields, a trend supported by the increasing complexity of projects and the need for professionals who can bridge technical and managerial roles.

The data also reveals limited graduation numbers in the natural sciences and mathematics, which may reflect a broader trend in higher education where students are gravitating towards more applied fields such as engineering and business.

Overall, Kettering University’s graduation data for 2023 underscores its strength in engineering programs while indicating opportunities for growth in business and science disciplines, particularly in attracting international students to diversify its academic community.

All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard

*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes

Engineeringhas 266 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Engineering, General.-
Chemical Engineering.$79,490
Computer Engineering, General.$86,105
Computer Hardware Engineering.$86,105
Electrical and Electronics Engineering.$80,123
Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering, Other.$80,123
Engineering Physics/Applied Physics.-
Engineering Science.$122,875
Mechanical Engineering.$82,803
Industrial Engineering.$85,982
Businesshas 104 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Business Administration and Management, General.$119,450
Logistics, Materials, and Supply Chain Management.$119,450
Operations Management and Supervision.$119,450
Management Science.-
Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services, Other.$128,363
Computer and information sciencehas 50 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Computer Science.$87,541
Engineering technologieshas 13 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Engineering/Industrial Management.$128,834
Biologyhas 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Biochemistry.-
Mathmatics and statistics has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Applied Mathematics, General.-
Physical scienceshas 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Physics, General.-

Students

1,466 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 80:20 · Freshman retention 94.3%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,212)

White
885 · 73.0%
Asian
85 · 7.0%
Black
65 · 5.4%
Hispanic
53 · 4.4%
Two or more races
52 · 4.3%
International
42 · 3.5%
Unknown
27 · 2.2%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
1.4%
18–19
37.3%
20–21
41.7%
22–24
17.0%
25 and over
2.6%

Graduate students

Under 22
1.2%
22–24
16.9%
25–29
35.0%
30–34
22.0%
35 and over
24.8%

Data insights

Analysis of Student Demographics at Kettering University for 2023

In 2023, Kettering University showcases a diverse student body, consisting of undergraduate freshmen, upperclassmen, transfer students, and graduate students. The total number of undergraduate freshmen is 294, with a notable majority of 78.9% male students and only 21.1% female students. This gender imbalance is also reflected in the upperclassmen category, where 79.8% are male and 20.2% are female, indicating a persistent trend of higher male enrollment in these programs.

The transfer student population is relatively small, with just 34 individuals, of which 67.6% are male and 32.4% are female. This suggests that transfer programs may need to implement strategies to attract more female students. On the graduate level, there are 347 students, with 75.5% male and 24.5% female, continuing the trend of gender disparity across all student categories.

Examining the demographic breakdown by ethnicity, the representation of various racial groups could provide additional insights into the university's inclusivity efforts. However, the data does not include detailed statistics for upperclassmen and transfer students, which limits a comprehensive analysis of these groups.

The overall student composition at Kettering University highlights the ongoing challenge of achieving gender parity, particularly within engineering and technical fields, where male representation often exceeds that of females. As universities strive for diversity and inclusion, it remains crucial to focus on recruitment strategies that encourage female participation and support for underrepresented groups in STEM disciplines.

Analysis of Student Age Composition at Kettering University 2023

The age distribution of students at Kettering University in 2023 reveals interesting trends in both undergraduate and graduate populations. The majority of undergraduate males fall within the 18-21 age range, with 455 students aged 18-19 and 495 in the 20-21 bracket. This indicates a strong presence of traditional college-aged students, reflecting national trends where most undergraduates begin their studies right after high school.

In contrast, the female undergraduate population is significantly smaller, particularly in the younger age groups, with only 108 females aged 18-19 and 139 aged 20-21. This disparity raises questions about gender representation in STEM fields, as Kettering is known for its engineering and technology programs, where females are often underrepresented.

Among graduate students, the age range shifts slightly, with a noteworthy concentration of males aged 25-29, totaling 81 students. This could indicate that many individuals are returning to education later in their careers, perhaps seeking advancement in their fields. Female graduate students in the same age range are fewer, with only 33 students, which underscores the need for initiatives that support women in pursuing advanced degrees in traditionally male-dominated disciplines.

Overall, while Kettering University has a robust enrollment of traditional-aged students, particularly among males, there remains a critical need to enhance female participation, especially in graduate studies. As the university continues to evolve, understanding these demographics will be essential in shaping programs and support systems that foster inclusivity and equal opportunities for all students.

International Students

International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Undergraduates3.5%

42 in 2025 · 6.5% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 6.5%2017: 5.2%2018: 5.5%2019: 4.9%2020: 5.1%2021: 3.6%2022: 3.0%2023: 3.5%2024: 3.4%2025: 3.5%
2016Peer median 2.6%2025
Graduate students29.5%

75 in 2025 · 5.4% in 2016

0% 17.5% 35% 2016: 5.4%2017: 6.6%2018: 30.1%2019: 29.2%2020: 20.1%2021: 11.9%2022: 20.5%2023: 25.1%2024: 28.6%2025: 29.5%
2016Peer median 2.2%2025

Data insights

Trends in International Student Enrollment at Kettering University

The data reflects a notable trend in the enrollment of international students at Kettering University over the years. From 2004 to 2023, the total number of undergraduate students has generally declined, accompanied by fluctuating numbers of international students. The percentage of international undergraduate students peaked at 6.93% in 2015, indicating a brief period of increased diversity within the undergraduate body. However, this percentage has since seen a downward trend, reaching 3.52% in 2023, suggesting challenges in attracting international talent.

In contrast, the graduate program has exhibited a more dynamic shift. The proportion of international graduate students rose significantly, particularly in 2018, where it reached an impressive 30.09%. This spike may correlate with Kettering's strategic initiatives to attract international scholars in specific fields, reflecting the growing global demand for advanced education in engineering and technology.

Interestingly, the overall trend indicates that while international students contribute a vital perspective to the university's diversity, the undergraduate segment faces significant challenges. Factors could include changing immigration policies, market competition from other institutions, or shifts in global student mobility patterns. The graduate program, however, shows resilience and adaptability, highlighting Kettering’s potential for growth in this area.

As Kettering University continues to navigate these dynamics, it could consider enhancing its international recruitment strategies and support systems to foster a more inclusive environment that attracts and retains a diverse student body.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$56,825

Undergraduate tuition
$46,425
Room and board
$10,400
Graduate tuition
$14,664
Tuition and room and board over time

Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Tuition rose 21% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 38%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$70.3M

Tuition and fees
$34.8M49.4%
Gifts and private grants
$15.8M22.5%
Investment return
$13.6M19.3%
Auxiliary enterprises
$3.8M5.5%
Government grants and contracts
$2.0M2.8%

Expenses$67.6M

Institutional support
$23.6M34.8%
Instruction
$23.0M34.0%
Auxiliary enterprises
$6.9M10.2%
Student services
$6.5M9.6%
Academic support
$4.3M6.4%
Research
$3.2M4.8%
Public service
$61K0.1%

Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)

Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

All faculty
$83,777peers $68,006
Professor
$95,120peers $78,041
Associate professor
$88,018peers $70,202
Assistant professor
$84,408peers $63,827
Lecturer
$66,307peers $59,832

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · EADA

No athlete data available for 2025.

No athlete data available for 2024.

No athlete data available for 2023.

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable universities near Kettering University that you might find interesting:

  1. University of Michigan-Ann Arbor - Ranked 21st in the 2024 US News rankings, this is a prestigious comprehensive university known for its strong research programs and vibrant campus life.

  2. Michigan State University - With a rank of 60, this comprehensive university offers a diverse range of programs and is recognized for its contributions to research and education.

  3. University of Notre Dame - Ranked 20th, Notre Dame is a renowned Catholic university famous for its academic rigor and strong community values.

  4. Hillsdale College - This liberal arts college ranks 39th and is known for its classical education and commitment to the principles of liberty and good governance.

  5. Oberlin College - With a rank of 51, Oberlin is a distinguished liberal arts college recognized for its progressive values and strong music program.

These institutions represent a mix of comprehensive universities and liberal arts colleges, each with its unique strengths and opportunities.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 4.0 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Incidents, 2023–2025

Aggravated assault
2
Burglary
2
Motor vehicle theft
1
Weapons arrests
1
Weapons referrals
1
Domestic violence
1

From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Rates at Kettering University

The crime statistics from Kettering University over the last decade reveal significant fluctuations in the rates of various offenses per 1,000 students. Notably, in 2018, the average crime rate peaked at 3.89 incidents per 1,000 students, which may reflect an increase in campus crime awareness or reporting practices. This year saw a notable rise in drug-related arrests, emphasizing the need for continued vigilance in addressing substance abuse on campus.

Following 2018, a downward trend is evident, with the crime rate dropping to a mere 0.54 in 2022, the lowest recorded in the past decade. This sharp decline could indicate effective crime prevention strategies or improved campus safety measures. However, it is essential to consider that such low figures might also stem from reduced reporting or incidents during the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to significant changes in on-campus activities.

Interestingly, the data shows that violent crimes such as domestic violence and assaults have fluctuated but remained relatively low compared to the total crime figures. This pattern might suggest that Kettering University is successfully maintaining a safe environment for its students.

In conclusion, while the overall trend in crime rates appears to be declining, continuous efforts to enhance campus safety and address substance abuse issues are crucial. Educational institutions must remain proactive in fostering a secure and supportive environment for all students. For those interested in understanding crime rates in a broader context, you can refer to the crime rate calculation methodology at: https://www.forwardpathway.com/33447.

Notable Alumni

Notable alumni of Kettering University include Mary Barra (Chair and CEO of General Motors), Mark Neumann (Businessman and former U.S. representative from Wisconsin) and Mike Shirkey (Republican member of the Michigan State Senate).

More alumni (1, by field)

Business

From Wikidata “educated at” records (including people who attended without graduating), ordered by the number of Wikipedia language editions. Degrees and years follow Wikidata and are left out where it has none.

References and Data Sources

Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.