2024 Best Colleges for Physics in Michigan

• Ann Arbor, MI•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.96 out of 5  4,709 reviews

Sophomore: The University of Michigan takes a lot of pride in calling itself the best university in the world, but while finishing up my sophomore year I could not agree more. There is such a healthy balance between challenging courses that make students competitive prospects in their next step in life and opportunities to destress and enjoy the "best years of our lives", from watching our football team win the national championship to simply receiving free treats around campus from staff. From my personal experience, I cannot offer any suggestions for change for this amazing university! I have met some of the most kindhearted and motivated people in friends and professors while here and I cannot imagine attending another college.... Read 4,709 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 20%

• Net price $19,205

• SAT range 1340-1520

• East Lansing, MI•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.91 out of 5  6,278 reviews

Alum: I attended MSU as a minority student with about 40,000 in the total student body. This number was comprised of approximately 30,000 Caucasian students. As a minority coming from an urban background where most residents shared my race this was a culture shock. Programs are available to assist minorities but many were student organized and limited to University and Faculty based. I survived because of the Office of Supportive Services. I wish there was a similar program in the Colleges as well as the University as a whole. OSS provided counseling, employment and funding for minority students. It was very difficult understanding the accents of foreign professors and I wish they had more African-American professors on staff. That change alone would have been great to see as an aspiring scholar. As such, culturally would have been more aware of the dynamics of a classroom where I was the only student of color. Ultimately, I graduated in 4 years but I felt like an Alien sometimes!... Read 6,278 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 83%

• Net price $8,738

• SAT range 1100-1320

• Houghton, MI•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.8 out of 5  1,059 reviews

Sophomore: An awesome school for those who love the outdoors and being close to everything on campus. All of the academic buildings on campus are within a 15 minute walk from my dorm, making getting to class very convenient even when the weather isn't great. The people I've met here are incredible, and the professors are extremely welcoming and available to help you with whatever questions or general advice you may want to ask about. As the school isn't located in or near a major city, there isn't a huge variety of stores or restaurants close by, but the students here make due with what we have pretty well. As for the nature scene; there is a wide variety of outdoor activities to take part in while living in this gorgeous part of the country - from skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and dog-sledding in the snow to mountain biking, camping, hiking, swimming, running, and more - whenever you feel like it! This was not my first choice school, but I'm incredibly glad it's where I ended up.... Read 1,059 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 86%

• Net price $17,826

• SAT range 1130-1350

• Kalamazoo, MI•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.69 out of 5  420 reviews

Alum: If you want to be academically challenged, study-abroad, and graduate from an excellent institution with world-class connections, then Kalamazoo College is your school. The structure of the school is a trimester system in which you'll have 10-weeks to complete your courses. Your first semesters will feel hectic, but you only take three classes at a time and the professors are there to help you adapt to the 10-week system. The largest class size you'll be in is roughly 20-25 students, allowing for plenty of time both during class and out of class to work with your professor one-on-one. K's study-abroad program, which is built into your Junior year at K, is unmatched. ALL JUNIORS for (mostly) no additional cost, can study abroad in Europe, East Asia, Africa, and or even Australia for up to a whole year. If you can't afford studying abroad, just let the CIP know and the college will move mountains and rivers to make it happen. At K, you get more in four and more in a lifetime!... Read 420 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 80%

• Net price $27,395

• SAT range 1160-1380

• Detroit, MI•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.67 out of 5  2,973 reviews

Junior: Wayne State University in Detroit offers a diverse and dynamic academic environment. With a wide range of programs spanning from liberal arts to sciences, engineering, and beyond, it caters to various interests and career paths. The campus is vibrant, with numerous opportunities for student involvement in clubs, organizations, and community service. Faculty are knowledgeable and accessible, fostering a supportive learning atmosphere. The university's urban location provides unique cultural experiences and internships. However, like any institution, it faces challenges, including infrastructure maintenance and funding issues. Overall, Wayne State University is a reputable institution with a lot to offer its students.... Read 2,973 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 63%

• Net price $15,710

• SAT range 1030-1260

• Albion, MI•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.93 out of 5  734 reviews

Alum: Albion's small class sizes and high-quality faculty (who are there to teach, not just do research) ensure students get individual attention. After graduating from Albion, I matriculated to two different Global Top 10 Universities for my grad studies. Based on these experiences, I can honestly say that Albion's professors are some of the best anywhere. As a kid who lacked academic confidence before college, Albion helped provide me with unique opportunities to do in-depth, funded research as an undergrad, whether during the annual Elkin Isaac Research Symposium, during summer-session, or via off-campus research fellowships at prestigious research libraries and institutes. While the rural campus and small size aren't everyone's cup of tea, I believe Albion is a hidden gem that offers a first-class liberal arts education and prepares students to confidently stand toe-to-toe with peers from any school in the world come grad school and beyond (and we can party with the best of them, too).... Read 734 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 69%

• Net price $19,772

• SAT range 930-1160

• Rochester Hills, MI•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.62 out of 5  2,526 reviews

Freshman: I had a very nice time for a first year here. Oakland wasn't my first choice but that was mainly because I wasn't aware of it as a school. I enjoyed pretty much everything from the professors and staff to the housing enviroment and beatiful campus. I think the most they could change would be late dining hours with more expansive meal options (Maybe yogurt all day). I would reccomend any students coming to OU to get involved with campus organizations. I was supported by the Veterans Support Services center, Center for Multicultural Initiatives (through their Summer Core Bridge program where I gained 1 credit and a 4.0 gpa before my main courses) and the Gender and Sexuality Center which is an amazing and inviting space to hang out or come for any events!... Read 2,526 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 92%

• Net price $14,316

• SAT range 970-1230

• Mount Pleasant, MI•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.73 out of 5  3,025 reviews

Freshman: Central Michigan University is a great school , they have good professors ,staff and students.The professors are really patient with students and really understand, Students are friendly and also have good manners. The school has great sports teams and facilities, it also has well structured housing facilities for students. Central Michigan University is like a hub of adventure with a spirited community, diverse courses, and a beautiful campus. Plus, the Chippewas' energy is contagious. Adventure awaits at CMU with its lively atmosphere, academic variety, and Chippewa spirit , CMU's got some cool majors! Business, Education, Health Sciences, and of course, the Sciences . CMU also offers unique programs like Fermentation Science, Meteorology, and Museum Studies. They're big on hands-on learning, diversity, and have top-notch research facilities. Plus, their focus on sustainability . Great community vibe, cutting-edge tech, and they're eco-conscious. It has a nice and quiet atmosphere to... Read 3,025 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 77%

• Net price $16,880

• SAT range 1010-1220

• Flint, MI•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.63 out of 5  603 reviews

Freshman: As of now, Kettering University has been an incredible experience for me. Before I even enrolled, what attracted me to this school was its co-op program, which provides students a paid, hands-on work experience in their respective major in addition to what they learn in classroom. Another reason this school heavily appealed to me was that it's heavily STEM-oriented, and I knew I would get the suitable education here in pursuit of a STEM career (and in turn, a worthwhile return on investment). Here, there is a place for everyone, which is reflected in the large number of clubs, events, and extracurricular activities. So far, I've had the most fun participating in Kettering's Intramural Volley Team (despite never playing organized volleyball before). Currently, I can't point to any negatives that have significantly hindered me, as I've only been enrolled here for a short amount of time.... Read 603 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 86%

• Net price $34,760

• SAT range 1140-1340

• Alma, MI•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.74 out of 5  612 reviews

Junior: I love Alma! I’m a Junior in the Fall and studying Nursing. I love the personal attention I receive from my Professors. It’s a small college and class sizes are small. I also play soccer at Alma and Love that as well! Alma truly is my home away from home. The only thing negative about Alma College is the food. The food company has changed twice since I have been there and it has not been positive. I do love the Qdoba and Starbucks on Alma’s campus.... Read 612 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 69%

• Net price $24,302

• SAT range 1030-1230

• Adrian, MI•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.52 out of 5  669 reviews

Freshman: As a commuter to Adrian, I don't experience all the benefits Adrian has to offer, but the ones I do experience are amazing! I am currently a first year and adjusting to college life hasn't been the easiest but Adrian College has made it better and so welcoming. I've learned to adjust to classes. They're all different, every professor teaches differently and has other expectations than normal. Changes that could benefit Adrian in general would be some of the parking options. Some days parking lots are closed and reserved and can be hard to navigate. All the athletic facilities are super nice and even Arrington Ice Arena has a cool feature with the restaurant Wow above the ice. Before graduating High School, I never considered college, now since I am a Adrian College Bulldog, I've never happier with my decision.... Read 669 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 76%

• Net price $24,050

• SAT range 940-1150

• Kalamazoo, MI•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.75 out of 5  3,609 reviews

Graduate Student: Western Michigan is so prestigious, modern and spacious. It has a good learning environment with state of the art learning facilities, well educated Professors and the most unique thing is the unity in diversity. MWU has people from all over the world and this makes it very interesting its like you have the whole world in your hands. Through this diversity you learn more from others. WMU is a world class University and its qualifications are much recognized by employers making you stand out from the rest as far as employment chances are concerned.... Read 3,609 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 83%

• Net price $19,749

• SAT range 1000-1220

• Allendale, MI•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.77 out of 5  4,082 reviews

Alum: I loved everything about my time at Grand Valley - the campus, students, professors, sports, clubs, etc. While Allendale didn't have much going on, you were a short bus ride away from downtown Grand Rapids, which is an incredible city. It's a big city that doesn't feel like a big city (ie. loud, dirty, crowded). If you went in the opposite direction from Allendale, you were a short drive from the beach! (Yes, we count it as a beach even though it's at a great lake rather than an ocean.) I highly recommend Grand Valley State!... Read 4,082 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 92%

• Net price $16,947

• SAT range 1050-1250

• Ypsilanti, MI•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.57 out of 5  3,357 reviews

Sophomore: My experience at Eastern Michigan University is characterized by a strong sense of community among students. The campus environment was friendly and inclusive, making it easy to form connections and build lasting friendships. The presence of numerous clubs and Greek life organizations added to the vibrant campus culture, offering students various avenues to get involved and pursue their interests outside of academics. However, one of the challenges I encountered was the university's size. While the close-knit community was a strength, it also meant that there were fewer options when it came to clubs, organizations, and food choices compared to larger schools. This limitation sometimes made it feel like there were missed opportunities for diverse experiences and activities.... Read 3,357 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 85%

• Net price $16,311

• SAT range 930-1180

• Marquette, MI•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.72 out of 5  1,159 reviews

Alum: NMU offers a world-class education in a location that will take your breath away! The university is constantly striving to innovate and involve its student population in those efforts. Marquette offers something for everyone, but you need to be willing to explore and try new things. The Lake Superior shoreline is just minutes away and for a few months of the school year is a beautiful spot to hang out or do some homework. Downtown Marquette is a small and quaint and hosts a handful of fun events throughout the year.... Read 1,159 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 71%

• Net price $17,686

• SAT range 970-1190

• University Center, MI•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.77 out of 5  1,717 reviews

Freshman: Although I had a rocky start with housing and the Honors program I quickly learned that Saginaw Valley State University was full of kind students and amazing professors. The math department is rocky but those that work in the tutoring center really make up for it! Housing can be complicated and frustrating but the state of the dorms are totally worth it! So many things to join on campus and so many people to meet! Definitely a smaller campus which is very convenient on cold Michigan days. An amazing place for pre-health fields with an amazing advisor.... Read 1,717 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 78%

• Net price $15,476

• SAT range 960-1170

• Dearborn, MI•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.64 out of 5  1,316 reviews

Senior: Overall, I feel that the University of Michigan - Dearborn has been a lucrative experience. The environment enriches students by encouraging them to participate in numerous leadership opportunities, community service, as well as honorary academic opportunities. Students can apply classroom learning to real-life experiences such as internships, student organizations, and jobs. I like that University of Michigan - Dearborn encourages its students to become well-rounded individuals and leaders in and outside the classrooms. What I would like to see change is the increase in student engagement within their first year. I feel that students will have better opportunities to enjoy the benefits of the university if they start engaging in campus functions early within their freshman year.... Read 1,316 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 69%

• Net price $11,818

• SAT range 1050-1300

• Warren, MI•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.79 out of 5  984 reviews

Junior: I obtained two associates degrees at Macomb Community College via their online programs. I have had an incredible experience and would recommend attending in any capacity to further your educational goals. For the most part, classes are not too intimidating and are manageable. The professors are typically friendly and helpful, harsh professors are few and far between here. The classes are diverse in age of students so there is no worry of being out of place in any field. Online courses at Macomb require a lot of self discipline, however they are great for those who have busy lives, transportation issues, anxiety in social situations, etc. The cost of attendance is very low compared to other schools, especially with financial aid. Attending Macomb before transferring can genuinely help you get the best value and is a route most people regret not taking in hindsight. I have only had to go on campus to pick up supplies a couple of times, otherwise I have completed everything else online.... Read 984 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $5,447

• SAT range —

• Holland, MI•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.8 out of 5  1,093 reviews

Alum: I absolutely loved my time as a student on Hope's campus. Not only would I recommend this college to any student intreated in finding a place to learn and grow, but man would I give anything to do it all over again. You'll hear this word get thrown out a lot when you're on campus... but this place has community like no other. Everyone has the opportunity to find their people. Sure, the residence halls don't have flat screen TVs, the dining hall menu rotates every couple of weeks, and game days don't compare to those of big schools... but all those small details get buried under all the incredible experiences you have on campus, in the classroom and out. I wouldn't trade those memories for anything. Go Dutch!... Read 1,093 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 92%

• Net price $28,688

• SAT range 1100-1330

• Flint, MI•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.74 out of 5  994 reviews

Junior: My experience at UM Flint has been largely positive. I have made some incredible friends while studying Mathematics at UM Flint. Because UM Flint is such a small school, it is very easy to connect with the professors in my department, and to build relationships with them. My professors in the math department at UM Flint are incredible. They are always encouraging me to continue my studies, and supporting me with my dreams of forming a mathematics club at the university. I have been given many opportunities to partake in research projects with my professors, which is a great way to prepare for graduate school. Overall, I have loved my experience here, and I would choose UM Flint a million times over if given the option!... Read 994 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 74%

• Net price $12,616

• SAT range 990-1250

• Grand Rapids, MI•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.92 out of 5  960 reviews

Senior: At Calvin, there is lots of opportunities on campus to get involved in various clubs and activities. They also have lots of opportunities for scholarships each year to help with the cost. The variety of food is great and the dining hall staff is very helpful when you have food allergies.... Read 960 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 75%

• Net price $27,120

• SAT range 1120-1340

• Southfield, MI•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.67 out of 5  564 reviews

Freshman: I've really enjoyed my first year. Lots of hard work, but it will all be worth it when i graduate and have a career in the field of architecture. There is a lot of hands on projects in this field. You really get to be involved with each project and work with other students. Gives a student the necessary hands on needed which will be essential in this career.... Read 564 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 81%

• Net price $32,628

• SAT range 1020-1270

• Hillsdale, MI•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.82 out of 5  391 reviews

Alum: Hillsdale was a wonderful school to attend. It provided wonderful academic opportunities in a quiet town where sincere friendships could form. It is not a school for everyone, but I was very pleased with my experience.... Read 391 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 24%

• Net price $24,057

• SAT range 1340-1510

• Berrien Springs, MI•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.42 out of 5  525 reviews

Alum: Overall decent school, most professors are supportive and caring, can be expensive due to being private, food is hit or miss, most housing needs revamp, is christian and will require weekly chapels/extracurricular events, campus is in very rural area so not much to do.... Read 525 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 82%

• Net price $23,719

• SAT range 1050-1300

• Grand Rapids, MI•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.65 out of 5  653 reviews

Sophomore: The campus is gorgeous year-round, but most specifically in the fall! Because of the large variety of biodiversity, autumn turns the college campus into a crunchy, multicolored wonder. The sustainability program drew me into coming to Aquinas; not only does the committee provide us with recycling and composting, but also terracycling, e-waste recycling, GoodWill donations, and so much more! Plus, there's a community garden on campus. Students are allowed 8 free therapy sessions each semester in the wellness center. The dorms are rather small but still livable. There's a grocery store within walking distance (roughly 15 minutes to get there) which is super convenient. You can't have toasters in the dorms. You can have an emotional support animal though! Although Aquinas is a Catholic college, I still recommend it to people who aren't Catholic or religious at all. No one will force you to participate in religious activities if you don't want to.... Read 653 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 89%

• Net price $19,447

• SAT range 1000-1170