Ferris State University is a public university located in Big Rapids, Michigan. It was founded in 1884 and has a student population of over 13,000. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of attending Ferris State University.
Pros:
- Wide Range of Programs: Ferris State University offers over 190 academic programs, ranging from associate degrees to doctoral degrees. This provides students with a wide range of options to choose from, depending on their interests and career goals.
- Career-Focused Education: Ferris State University places a strong emphasis on providing students with career-focused education, with a focus on practical skills and hands-on experience. This approach prepares students for the workforce and increases their chances of finding employment after graduation.
- Affordability: Ferris State University is known for its affordability, with tuition costs that are lower than many other universities. The university also offers a variety of financial aid options to help students cover the cost of their education.
- Small Class Sizes: Ferris State University has a low student-to-faculty ratio, with an average class size of 20 students. This ensures that students receive individualized attention and support from their professors, which can be beneficial for academic success.
- Strong Athletics Program: Ferris State University has a strong athletics program, with over 15 varsity sports teams. This provides students with the opportunity to participate in competitive sports and develop valuable leadership and teamwork skills.
- Location: Ferris State University is located in Big Rapids, Michigan, which is a small town with a friendly community. The town provides a safe and comfortable environment for students to live and study in.
Cons:
- Limited Diversity: Ferris State University has a predominantly white student body, and there is limited diversity among its faculty and staff. This can be a disadvantage for students who are looking for a more diverse academic community.
- Limited Research Opportunities: Ferris State University is primarily focused on providing students with practical skills and hands-on experience. As a result, there are limited research opportunities available for students who are interested in pursuing a career in research.
- Limited Extracurricular Activities: Ferris State University has a limited range of extracurricular activities, which can be a disadvantage for students who are looking for a more diverse range of activities to participate in outside of the classroom.
- Limited Course Offerings: While Ferris State University offers a wide range of programs, there are some limitations in terms of course offerings. This can be a disadvantage for students who are looking for a broader range of course options.
- Location: While the small town atmosphere of Big Rapids can be a pro, it can also be a con for some students who are looking for a more vibrant and diverse urban environment.
- Limited Graduate Programs: Ferris State University offers limited graduate programs, which can be a disadvantage for students who are interested in pursuing advanced degrees beyond the undergraduate level.
In conclusion, Ferris State University offers a wide range of programs and a career-focused education at an affordable cost. However, it does have some limitations, such as limited diversity, limited research opportunities, and limited extracurricular activities. Despite these challenges, Ferris State University can be an excellent choice for students who are looking for a practical and hands-on education in a small town environment.