The University of Michigan is one of the nation's top public research universities, located in Ann Arbor and known for its exceptional breadth across engineering, business, medicine, and the liberal arts. Its Ross School of Business, extensive research output, and spirited campus culture make it a perennial leader among public universities.
Mascot: Wolverine
Notable Alumni
Gerald Ford (38th President)•Tom Brady (legendary NFL quarterback)•Madonna (Queen of Pop)
At a Glance
Cost
Published sticker prices for 2025-2026. Actual cost after aid varies.
Top Programs & National Ranking
Approximate national ranking based on departmental rankings, research output, and program reputation.
Highlights
Campus Experience
Michigan is the gold standard for 'work hard, play hard' at a public university — Ann Arbor's downtown scene, legendary football tailgates, and a massive Greek system create a social life that rivals any school in the country. Greek life is influential but not essential; the bar scene on South University and State Street, plus 1,600+ student orgs, mean independents thrive too. Fall Saturdays in the Big House are a quasi-religious experience that unites the entire campus.
The Law Quad is a Gothic masterpiece, and the Diag provides a classic collegiate feel. The sprawling campus blends historic and modern architecture across a charming college town setting.
Based on Niche reviews, Princeton Review surveys, student forums, and institutional data.
Safety
U-M's Division of Public Safety provides around-the-clock patrols, electronic dorm access, and late-night transportation. The large student population leads to higher absolute incident numbers, with property crime being the primary concern.
Ann Arbor is generally a safe college town, though downtown and the South University area saw a 7% crime increase in 2025. Most incidents involve property crime.
Based on Clery Act data, student surveys, and local crime statistics.
Plan Your Visit
Schedule: Most weekdays and Saturdays (appointment only, no walk-ins)
Duration: 75 minutes
Student-led walking tour of Central Campus. Includes a model residence hall room. Dining halls not included but guests can purchase meals. Information sessions held on most tour days (except Saturdays). Group tours: Tuesdays and Thursdays at 9am, grades 9-12 only, max 15 students per guide.
Book a TourVirtual tour available with photos, 360-degree views, video, and student voices covering schools, colleges, residence halls, and landmarks.
Tour ResourcesVisit during a fall football Saturday (September-November) for the full Michigan experience — 110,000 fans fill 'The Big House' and the entire town transforms. Late April through May is also great for academics and spring weather. Avoid January-February when Ann Arbor is freezing, and note that Saturday tours have no information sessions.
Detroit Metro Airport (DTW) is 24 miles away (~30 min drive). No direct public transit from DTW — rideshare or taxi recommended. On campus, visitor parking at structures like 324 Maynard Street ($2.20/hr metered, $1.80/hr in structures). Payment by debit/credit only (no cash) via the AIMS Mobile Pay system. Limited parking on North Campus — try Earl V. Moore Building (Lot NC10).
Location
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