Ferris State University is a public university located in Big Rapids, Michigan. The university was founded in 1884 as the Big Rapids Industrial School and has since grown to become a leading center for education and innovation in the region. Ferris State offers over 190 degree programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels, including programs in business, health sciences, education, engineering, and more. The university is known for its hands-on, experiential learning programs that allow students to gain real-world experience and prepare for their future careers.
The university has a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion and is home to a vibrant community of students from all walks of life. Ferris State offers a range of support services for underrepresented students, including programs for first-generation college students, veterans, and students with disabilities.
Ferris State is also a leader in research and innovation, with several centers and institutes dedicated to advancing knowledge and driving economic growth in the region. These include the Michigan Small Business Development Center, the National Elastomer Center, and the Michigan Technical Education Center.

Ferris State University (Wikimedia)
It’s a good idea to look at these 30 interesting facts about Ferris State University to know more about this public university.
- Ferris State University was founded in 1884 as the Big Rapids Industrial School.
- The university was renamed Ferris Institute in 1898 in honor of its founder, Woodbridge Ferris.
- Ferris State University became a four-year institution in 1960 and was granted university status in 1987.
- The university’s mascot is a bulldog named Brutus.
- Ferris State is the ninth-largest university in Michigan by enrollment.
- The university has over 190 degree programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels.
- Ferris State is known for its hands-on, experiential learning programs.
- The university has a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Ferris State is home to a vibrant community of students from all over the world.
- The university has several academic colleges, including the College of Business, the College of Health Professions, and the College of Engineering Technology.
- Ferris State’s College of Pharmacy is one of only two pharmacy schools in Michigan.
- The university’s College of Education and Human Services offers a range of programs in teaching, counseling, and social work.
- Ferris State is a member of the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference.
- The university’s athletic teams are known as the Bulldogs.
- Ferris State has won several national championships in sports such as hockey, volleyball, and men’s basketball.
- The university has a thriving Greek life community with over 20 fraternities and sororities.
- Ferris State is home to the Jim Crow Museum of Racist Memorabilia, which houses one of the largest collections of racist artifacts in the country.
- The university’s library houses over 1.5 million books and other materials.
- Ferris State has a strong alumni network with over 100,000 graduates.
- The university is home to several centers and institutes dedicated to advancing knowledge and driving economic growth in the region.
- Ferris State’s College of Pharmacy has a state-of-the-art facility that includes a compounding lab and a patient care center.
- The university’s welding engineering technology program is one of only four in the country.
- Ferris State’s aviation program is one of the largest in the nation.
- The university’s Criminal Justice program is one of the oldest and most respected in the state.
- Ferris State’s Professional Tennis Management program is one of only two in the country.
- The university’s campus features several art installations and sculptures.
- Ferris State has a strong commitment to sustainability and has implemented several green initiatives on campus.
- The university’s dining services source food locally and offer several vegetarian and vegan options.
- Ferris State has several residence halls and apartments for students.
- The university’s Center for Leadership, Activities and Career Services offers a range of services and programs to help students succeed.
Ferris State University is a renowned institution that offers a wide range of programs and opportunities for students to excel. With a strong commitment to hands-on learning and diversity, the university provides a supportive environment for students to achieve their academic and personal goals. Ferris State’s dedication to research and innovation has earned it a reputation as a leader in its field, while its commitment to sustainability and community engagement has helped to make it a responsible and respected member of the region. Ferris State University continues to grow and evolve, providing students with the tools and knowledge they need to succeed in their future careers and make a positive impact on the world.





