
Central Michigan University (CMU) is a public research university in Mount Pleasant, Michigan, with over 14,000 students enrolled. The university's freshman retention rate is 77%, with 61.7% of students going on to graduate within six years. CMU's student body consists of 38.6% male students and 61.4% female students, with 41% living in college-owned or affiliated housing. The university offers over 200 academic programs across various fields, including business, health professions, humanities, and STEM.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Total number of students | 14,000+ |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 10,079 |
| Gender distribution (Male:Female) | 38.6%:61.4% |
| On-campus housing | 41% |
| Off-campus housing | 59% |
| Number of academic programs | 200+ |
| Number of graduate degree programs | 70+ |
| Number of public charter schools supported | 69 |
| Number of students in supported public charter schools | 29,000 |
| Number of applications received for the Class of 2025 | 18,517 |
| Number of applications accepted for the Class of 2025 | 14,273 |
| Number of enrolled students for the Class of 2025 | 1,909 |
| Freshman retention rate | 77% |
| Graduation rate within six years | 61.7% |
| Number of new freshmen in 2023 | 2,233 |
| Number of transfer students in 2023 | 971 |
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CMU has over 14,000 students enrolled, with some sources stating over 15,000
Central Michigan University (CMU) is a public research university located in Mount Pleasant, Michigan. With over 14,000 students enrolled, CMU offers more than 200 programs across various academic fields, including business, education, health professions, humanities, social and behavioural sciences, STEM, and more. The university's ranking in the 2025 edition of Best Colleges is National Universities, #259.
CMU's student body consists of a mix of undergraduate and graduate students. As of fall 2023, the university had a total undergraduate enrollment of 10,079 students, with a gender distribution of 38.6% male and 61.4% female. The university offers over 70 graduate degree programs at the master's, specialist, and doctoral levels, in addition to its undergraduate programs.
CMU has a strong focus on research and development, spending $15.6 million in this area in 2018 according to the National Science Foundation. The university supports a significant number of public charter schools across Michigan, serving approximately 29,000 students through its Governor John Engler Center for Charter Schools.
While most sources indicate that CMU has over 14,000 enrolled students, some sources state that the university has over 15,000 students on its Mount Pleasant campus. This discrepancy may be due to differences in reporting dates or the inclusion of specific student populations, such as graduate students or those enrolled in specific programs. Nonetheless, it is clear that CMU serves a substantial number of students and continues to experience overall higher enrollment, attracting students with its diverse academic offerings and research opportunities.
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The university received 18,517 applications for the class of 2025
Central Michigan University is a public research institution located in Mount Pleasant, Michigan, with over 14,000 enrolled students. The university offers a variety of academic programs, including business, education, health professions, humanities, social and behavioural sciences, and STEM. The university received 18,517 applications for the class of 2025, demonstrating its popularity and appeal among prospective students. This number reflects the interest in the university's diverse academic offerings and indicates a competitive cohort for that year.
The application process at Central Michigan University is comprehensive and holistic. The university accepts applications through various platforms, including its own online portal and the Common App. International students can apply in the spring, summer, and fall semesters, with an upcoming deadline of August 1, 2025, for undergraduate and graduate programs. The university welcomes international applicants and has an acceptance rate of 91%, making it accessible to a wide range of students.
The university considers several academic and non-academic factors when reviewing applications. These factors include the rigor of secondary school records, academic GPA, class rank, recommendations, standardised test scores, application essays, extracurricular activities, and talent or ability. Students are assessed based on their academic performance and potential, as well as their well-roundedness and involvement outside the classroom. This holistic approach ensures that the university selects a diverse and talented group of students for each incoming class.
The Class of 2025, with its high number of applications, showcases the competitiveness and appeal of Central Michigan University. The university's reputation for academic excellence and its commitment to providing a comprehensive education attract students from diverse backgrounds. With its range of academic programs and focus on student success, Central Michigan University offers a compelling option for higher education in the Midwest. The university's mission is to foster an inclusive and equitable learning environment, making it a desirable choice for those seeking a supportive and engaging academic community.
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CMU has a total undergraduate enrollment of 10,079
Central Michigan University (CMU) is a public research university located in Mount Pleasant, Michigan. It was founded in 1892 and currently offers over 200 academic programs across various fields, including business, education, health professions, humanities, and STEM. CMU has a total undergraduate enrollment of 10,079 students as of Fall 2023. This includes 38.6% male students and 61.4% female students.
CMU has a rich student life, including Greek organizations, sports teams, and clubs. The university's athletics programs are affiliated with the NCAA Division I and compete in the Mid-American Conference. CMU also has a student-run newspaper called Central Michigan Life, which covers campus news and events.
In terms of housing, 41% of CMU's undergraduate students live in college-owned or affiliated housing, while 59% live off-campus. The university has a freshman retention rate of 77%, with a significant portion of students graduating within six years.
CMU received nearly 19,000 applications for the Class of 2025 and accepted over 77% of applicants. The university is considered "selective" by U.S. News & World Report, indicating a competitive admissions process. Overall, CMU offers a comprehensive education with a focus on student success, as evidenced by its diverse academic programs, dedicated faculty, and engaging student life.
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The university supports 29,000 K-12 students through its charter schools
Central Michigan University (CMU) is a public research university located in Mount Pleasant, Michigan. It was established in 1892 and currently offers over 200 academic programs across various fields, including business, health professions, humanities, and STEM. With a large student body, the university has more than 15,000 students on its main campus in Mount Pleasant and additional satellite locations across Michigan, the US, and Canada.
In addition to its undergraduate programs, CMU also offers master's, specialist, and doctoral-level degrees. The university is committed to providing an inclusive and equitable learning environment and strives for diversity, equity, and inclusion. It is also known for its athletics, with the Central Michigan Chippewas competing in NCAA Division I sports.
While CMU primarily caters to students pursuing higher education, the university has a broader reach in the educational landscape. Notably, CMU supports a significant number of K-12 students through its charter schools. The university's impact extends beyond its campus, benefiting approximately 29,000 K-12 students across these charter schools.
This aspect of CMU's contribution to education is particularly noteworthy as it showcases the university's dedication to supporting younger students and enhancing their educational journey. By operating charter schools, CMU plays a vital role in shaping the foundational years of these students' academic lives. The university's influence on K-12 education demonstrates a comprehensive approach to educational development, reflecting positively on CMU's commitment to learning at large.
The university's support for K-12 charter schools is a testament to its broader mission of fostering inclusive and equitable learning. By providing resources, guidance, and potentially curriculum development for these schools, CMU ensures that a diverse range of younger students can access quality education. This commitment to K-12 charter schools aligns with CMU's overall dedication to creating a positive and inclusive learning environment, regardless of the students' age or specific educational path.
Through its charter schools, CMU likely offers these younger students a range of benefits. These may include innovative teaching methods, access to specialized resources, and exposure to a diverse range of educational opportunities. By supporting 29,000 K-12 students, the university is actively contributing to the development of the next generation of learners, potentially inspiring a love for learning and fostering academic excellence from an early age.
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CMU's freshman retention rate is 77%
Central Michigan University (CMU) is a public research institution located in Mount Pleasant, Michigan, with over 14,000 enrolled students. The university offers more than 200 programs across various academic fields, including business, education, health professions, humanities, social and behavioural sciences, and STEM.
CMU's freshman retention rate of 77% indicates that 77% of first-year students returned to the university for their second year. Freshman retention rates are important indicators of student satisfaction and the overall student experience at a university. A high retention rate suggests that students are happy and well-supported, both academically and otherwise. For instance, a low retention rate could be due to insufficient financial aid, academic issues, family problems, loneliness, or a combination of these factors.
In the case of CMU, a freshman retention rate of 77% suggests that the majority of first-year students had a positive experience and chose to continue their studies at the university. This rate is also comparable to the overall retention rate of 82% at public four-year institutions and higher than the rate of 59% at the least selective institutions.
While freshman retention rates provide valuable insights, it is important to consider other factors as well. For example, public colleges tend to have lower retention rates due to their broader student body and economic factors. Additionally, grade inflation can impact retention rates, as students may choose to remain at a university with easier grading policies.
Nonetheless, CMU's freshman retention rate of 77% indicates that the university is meeting the needs of its students and providing a positive and supportive environment for them to continue their studies.
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Frequently asked questions
As of 2024, Central Michigan University supports 69 public charter schools serving 29,000 students across Michigan. The university itself has over 14,000 students enrolled, with more than 15,000 students on its Mount Pleasant campus.
Central Michigan University has a total undergraduate enrollment of 10,079 students as of Fall 2023.
Central Michigan University opened in 1892 as the Central Michigan Normal School and Business Institute. During its first year, 31 students attended classes in the Carpenter Building in downtown Mount Pleasant.
For the Class of 2025, Central Michigan University received 18,517 applications and accepted 14,273. Of those accepted, 1,909 enrolled.






























