Dr Mohammad Shafiq
Updated on: 04-Dec-2025
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Choosing the right university is a big decision. The Midwest has some of the best universities in the US. It offers high-quality education, affordable living, and a welcoming environment.
So many universities in this region provide strong academic programs. They offer excellent research facilities and great career opportunities as well. Whether you’re looking for a top engineering school, a business program, or the best liberal arts colleges in Midwest, there are huge options.
This guide will help you explore the best universities in the Midwest. You’ll learn about their programs, student life, financial aid options, and how to apply. Let’s get started!
The Midwest is a large region in the US. It offers affordable tuition, lower living costs, and friendly communities. Students get a great education and job opportunities while enjoying a balanced lifestyle. If you're planning to study in the U.S., you may also find this complete guide for international students in the U.S. helpful.
Each state has a unique culture, history, and education system. Universities in these states offer great academic programs, career opportunities, and a comfortable lifestyle. 12 of its states:
The Midwest is a great place for students. It has high-quality universities, a lower cost of living, and a welcoming atmosphere. Many schools here offer top-ranked programs in fields like engineering, business, and healthcare. Students exploring options across the country can also review top U.S. universities for international applicants to compare opportunities beyond the Midwest.
Midwestern universities often have lower tuition fees than East or West Coast schools. Recent research indicates that the cost of attending public universities has decreased significantly over the past decade. The average in-state tuition fee at public four-year colleges in the Midwest was around $11,740 for the 2022-2023 academic year. If you want to compare costs across the country, you can also explore affordable public universities in America.
Midwestern universities are known for their high academic standards. Many are ranked among the best in the country while still being more affordable than private institutions on the East and West Coasts.
Midwestern cities have growing job markets, especially in technology, healthcare, and manufacturing. Companies like Epic Systems and Cerner actively recruit from Midwestern universities. The Mayo Clinic and the Cleveland Clinic provide medical and healthcare students with job opportunities. Michigan and Ohio are major hubs for automotive engineering and manufacturing.
Midwestern universities are known for their friendly and inclusive campus environments. For example, the University of Wisconsin System emphasises student support services and community engagement, fostering a welcoming atmosphere for all students.
Choosing the top Midwest universities isn’t just about rankings. We looked at academic quality, student experience, career outcomes, and affordability. Our ranking is based on trusted sources like U.S. News, Times Higher Education, and QS Rankings.
We checked graduation rates, faculty qualifications, and student-faculty ratios. Schools with strong academic programs and research opportunities scored higher.
A great university is more than just books. We looked at student reviews, campus life, and student support services. Schools with active student communities and strong career services ranked higher. For international students, understanding health insurance requirements for students in the U.S. is also an important part of planning to study here.
College can be expensive, but some schools offer lower tuition, scholarships, and financial aid. We focused on universities that give students a high-quality education at a reasonable cost.
A good education should lead to a great career. We reviewed employment rates, starting salaries, and internship opportunities to see which universities help students succeed after graduation.
Schools with strong research programs and funding often provide cutting-edge education. We considered universities with high research output and industry collaborations.
Butler University is often listed among the top universities in the Midwest, offering a powerful mix of liberal arts and professional programs in Indianapolis, Indiana. It is a strong choice for students who want a high-quality Midwestern college with small class sizes, personal attention, and practical learning.
The campus features modern research labs, performance theatres, and excellent athletic facilities, all designed to support hands-on learning. Students regularly take part in internships, clinical experiences, and real-world projects with local companies and organisations across Indianapolis, which is ideal for those focused on career-ready degrees in the Midwest.
Green spaces, walking paths, and cosy study corners create a comfortable environment for everyday student life. A vibrant arts and culture scene, including music, theatre, and student-led events, helps Butler stand out for campus life. With strong career services, supportive faculty, and a tight-knit community, Butler appeals to students searching for a top-ranked Midwest university with strong outcomes after graduation.
Milwaukee School of Engineering is one of the best engineering universities in the Midwest, located in the heart of Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Known for its highly practical programs in engineering, business, and nursing, MSOE is ideal for students who want a hands-on STEM college in the Midwest.
Students learn in advanced labs, high-tech classrooms, and project-based environments that mirror real industry conditions. MSOE has strong partnerships with major companies, giving students access to co-ops and internships that build practical experience and strong resumes.
The compact urban campus places students close to downtown Milwaukee, offering professional opportunities, entertainment, and city life. With small class sizes, supportive professors, and a close community, MSOE is an excellent option for students who want a career-focused engineering university in the Midwestern region.
John Carroll University, located in University Heights near Cleveland, Ohio, is a private Jesuit institution widely recognised as one of the top liberal arts universities in the Midwest. It blends a strong core curriculum with professional programs and is ideal for students who want a values-driven education rooted in leadership and service.
The campus combines historic buildings with modern academic spaces, including innovative classrooms, research centres, and comfortable residence halls. Small class sizes and accessible faculty mean students receive personal guidance and mentorship throughout their academic journey.
John Carroll emphasises ethics, social responsibility, and community engagement, which appeals to students who want to study at a Midwest university that builds both character and career skills. With many clubs, athletic teams, and volunteer programs, plus connections to employers in the Cleveland area, graduates are well prepared for both employment and graduate school.
Calvin University in Grand Rapids, Michigan, is a private Christian institution that stands out as one of the best Christian universities in the Midwest. It offers a blend of rigorous academics and faith-based learning, perfect for students who want to integrate their beliefs with their studies.
The campus features modern academic buildings, advanced science labs, creative arts spaces, and a beautiful nature preserve that encourages outdoor learning and recreation. Students benefit from small, discussion-based classes and strong preparation for careers or graduate school.
Calvin's close-knit community supports spiritual growth, academic success, and personal development. With a wide range of majors, cultural events, and student organisations, it is an attractive choice for those looking for a faith-centred Midwestern college with a welcoming campus environment.
Truman State University, a public institution in Kirksville, Missouri, is often highlighted as one of the top affordable universities in the Midwest. It is known for strong academics at a more accessible price, making it appealing to families focused on value and return on investment.
The campus offers a classic college atmosphere with tree-lined walkways, fountains, and historic buildings, combined with modern classrooms, research labs, and an extensive library. Truman emphasises critical thinking, writing, and research, which is ideal for students who want an honours-level experience at a public university.
Students can join leadership programs, undergraduate research projects, and a wide range of clubs, sports, and cultural events. With an active alumni network and solid outcomes in both employment and graduate school, Truman is a smart option for students searching for a cost-effective Midwest university with a strong academic reputation.
Dordt University in Sioux Centre, Iowa, is a private Christian university known for its warm community and personalised support. It is a great choice for students who prefer a small Midwestern Christian college with a close, family-like atmosphere.
The campus includes modern science labs, creative art studios, and well-kept athletic fields, providing a complete environment for both academic and personal growth. The smaller campus size makes it easy to meet people, get involved, and form strong relationships with classmates and professors.
Faith is naturally woven into classes, campus activities, and student life, creating a holistic learning experience. Located in a peaceful town, Dordt offers a quiet and safe setting for focused study, while still allowing opportunities for service, internships, and local engagement.
Elmhurst University, located in Elmhurst, Illinois, just outside Chicago, is one of the best suburban universities in the Midwest for students who want both a traditional campus feel and access to a major city. It combines liberal arts with professional programs, giving students a flexible and practical education.
The campus features tree-lined paths, inviting green spaces, and modern learning areas, including updated labs and collaborative study spaces. Its location near Chicago is a major advantage for students seeking internships and jobs in the Midwest, especially in business, healthcare, education, and the arts.
Elmhurst emphasises inclusion and community, with a diverse student body and supportive campus culture. For students searching for a Midwest university near a big city that still feels personal and welcoming, Elmhurst is a strong option.
Kettering University in Flint, Michigan, is widely recognised as one of the top STEM universities in the Midwest, especially for students interested in engineering, technology, and business. It is best known for its co-op model, which allows students to alternate between classroom learning and paid work experiences.
The campus is highly focused on innovation, with advanced engineering labs, research centres, and collaborative workspaces that support project-based learning. Students gain real-world experience through industry partnerships, which helps them graduate with strong resumes and excellent job prospects.
Kettering is a top choice for students searching for Midwest engineering universities with co-op programs, strong industry ties, and high career placement rates.
9. Rockhurst University
Rockhurst University, a Jesuit institution in Kansas City, Missouri, is a Midwestern university known for leadership, service, and ethical education. It is ideal for students who want to develop both professional skills and a strong sense of purpose.
The campus blends historic architecture with modern academic buildings, interactive classrooms, and well-equipped athletic and recreation facilities. Rockhurst emphasises leadership development, community engagement, and social responsibility in many of its programs.
Its central location in Kansas City provides access to internships, clinical placements, and networking in healthcare, business, education, and nonprofit sectors. Students who want a Jesuit university in the Midwest with strong community values and career connections often find Rockhurst a great fit.
10. Baldwin Wallace University
Baldwin Wallace University, located in Berea, Ohio, near Cleveland, is one of the top career-focused universities in the Midwest. It is known for strong programs in business, education, health sciences, and the performing arts, making it attractive to students who want clearly defined career paths.
The campus includes modern science labs, business and innovation centres, and nationally recognised performing arts spaces. These facilities support both academic excellence and creative expression.
Because it is close to Cleveland, students have access to internships, co-ops, and job opportunities in hospitals, corporations, schools, and arts organisations. With an energetic student community and many leadership and performance options, Baldwin Wallace is a great choice for those seeking a Midwest university with strong career preparation and active campus life.
Attending a university in the Midwest can be more affordable than studying in other regions. Thanks to lower tuition costs and generous financial aid programs. Many Midwestern schools offer scholarships, grants, and work-study programs to help students manage their expenses.
The MSEP allows students from participating Midwestern states to enrol in out-of-state institutions at reduced tuition rates. States involved include Indiana, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, and Wisconsin. For example, Missouri Western State University participates in this program every year.
Many Midwestern schools also offer generous financial aid and scholarships. For example, the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities has one of the Big Ten schools’ lowest in-state tuition rates. Iowa State University offers automatic scholarships to incoming students with strong academic records.
Some other notable ones include:
There are also private scholarships available through organisations like:
Each state in the Midwest also offers its own financial aid programs:
Student life in the Midwest is fun and welcoming. Campuses have clubs, sports, and events for everyone. People are friendly, so making friends is easy. Living costs are lower than in many other places.
Students can enjoy city life, outdoor trips, and local festivals without spending too much. Many universities have big sports events, cosy cafés, and fun activities all year round. Whether you love nature, music, or sports, there's always something to do.
Some of the most prestigious universities in the Midwest include the University of Michigan, Northwestern University, and the University of Chicago. These institutions are well-known for their research output, academic rigour, and successful alumni networks.
The University of Michigan, the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and Ohio State University are excellent choices for out-of-state students. These universities offer great programs, resources, and opportunities and strongly support non-resident students.
The average tuition fee for in-state students at public universities in the Midwest is around $11,740 per year. For out-of-state students, tuition can range from $20,000 to $50,000.
Some universities with strong financial aid programs in the Midwest include the University of Michigan, Northwestern University, and the University of Wisconsin-Madison. These schools offer a combination of need-based aid, merit-based scholarships, and grants to help students with tuition.
Top-rated public universities in the Midwest include the University of Michigan, the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. These universities offer strong academic programs, research opportunities, and robust student life.
Universities like Northwestern University, the University of Chicago, and the University of Michigan are great options for international students.
The University of Michigan, Washington University in St. Louis, and the University of Chicago are among the best for medicine. They offer top-ranked medical programs and have strong partnerships with renowned hospitals and research institutions.
Universities like Purdue University, the University of Michigan, and the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign are highly regarded for their science and technology programs. These schools offer cutting-edge research programs and strong connections to the tech industry.
While Ivy League schools are often ranked higher in prestige, many universities in the Midwest, such as the University of Chicago and Northwestern University, offer similar academic rigour, research opportunities, and successful career outcomes, often at a lower cost.
The University of Wisconsin-Madison, the University of Minnesota, and the University of Iowa are relatively affordable for out-of-state students.
The Midwest is home to some of the best universities in the US. High-quality education and affordable tuition make it a great place to study. There are many great choices, from the top-ranked university to the STEM-focused university. Plus, the friendly student communities and industry connections make it easier to succeed in college and beyond. If you’re looking for the best universities in the Midwest, you have so many options! Start exploring your options and apply to the best university for your future.
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