Ferris Campuses

The Dowagiac Campus of Ferris State University, in collaboration with Southwestern Michigan College, serves students in southwest Michigan by providing accessible education and training programs. This regional campus focuses on meeting the educational and workforce needs of the local community.

• Business Studies: Offers associate degrees and certificates in Business Administration and Management, preparing students for entry-level positions in local industries.
• Health Sciences: Includes programs in Nursing and Medical Assisting, addressing the critical need for healthcare workers in the region.
• General Education: Provides foundational courses for students planning to transfer to a four-year program or complete a bachelor’s degree through Ferris State.
• Technical Training: Features vocational programs in areas like Welding and Manufacturing Technology, tailored to the industrial demands of the area.
• Early Childhood Education: Offers training for aspiring educators and childcare professionals, supporting the development of quality early education in the community.

The Dowagiac Campus is designed to offer a supportive learning environment with smaller class sizes and personalized advising. Through its partnership with Southwestern Michigan College, students have access to shared resources, including libraries, computer labs, and recreational facilities. The campus prioritizes flexibility, with many courses available in the evenings or online to accommodate working students. Community engagement is a key focus, with programs often aligned with local employer needs, facilitating internships and job placement opportunities. The Dowagiac Campus plays a vital role in making higher education accessible to rural and underserved populations in southwest Michigan, helping students achieve their academic and professional goals without needing to relocate.

Kendall College of Art and Design (KCAD), a campus of Ferris State University located in Grand Rapids, is dedicated to fostering creativity and innovation in the arts and design fields. This urban campus provides a dynamic environment for students passionate about visual and applied arts.

• Art and Design Programs: Offers degrees in Graphic Design, Illustration, Industrial Design, and Interior Design, focusing on developing technical and conceptual skills.
• Fine Arts: Includes programs in Painting, Photography, and Sculpture, encouraging students to explore personal expression and artistic techniques.
• Digital Media: Features courses in Animation, Game Design, and Digital Art, preparing students for careers in the rapidly evolving digital creative industry.
• Art Education: Provides training for aspiring art educators with a focus on pedagogy and curriculum development for K-12 settings.
• Master of Fine Arts (MFA): Offers advanced study for artists seeking to refine their craft and pursue professional or academic careers in the arts.

KCAD is housed in a historic building with modern studios, galleries, and technology labs, creating an inspiring space for artistic exploration. The campus benefits from its location in downtown Grand Rapids, a hub for arts and culture, offering students access to internships, exhibitions, and networking opportunities with local galleries and design firms. KCAD emphasizes a hands-on approach, with projects and critiques forming the core of the learning experience. The campus also hosts public events like art shows and design expos, connecting students with the broader creative community. With a commitment to sustainability and innovation, KCAD prepares graduates to lead in the ever-changing world of art and design.

Ferris State University's Main Campus in Big Rapids offers a wide array of programs across various disciplines, catering to a diverse student body. As the primary hub of the university, this campus is home to the majority of its academic colleges and administrative functions.

• College of Business: Programs include Accounting, Finance, Marketing, and Management, designed to prepare students for dynamic careers in the corporate world.
• College of Engineering Technology: Offers degrees in Mechanical Engineering Technology, Electrical/Electronics Engineering Technology, and more, focusing on hands-on, practical skills.
• College of Health Professions: Features programs like Nursing, Dental Hygiene, and Health Administration, emphasizing real-world healthcare training.
• College of Arts, Sciences, and Education: Provides a broad liberal arts education with majors in Biology, Chemistry, Education, and Social Sciences.
• College of Pharmacy: One of the few pharmacy schools in Michigan, offering a Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) program with a strong clinical focus.

The campus also supports unique programs like Optometry and Criminal Justice, which are nationally recognized for their excellence. With state-of-the-art facilities, including modern labs, libraries, and student centers, the Main Campus fosters an environment of innovation and learning. Students benefit from a blend of theoretical education and practical application through internships, co-ops, and industry partnerships. Additionally, the campus offers numerous graduate programs across disciplines, ensuring opportunities for advanced study. The vibrant campus life, complete with student organizations and events, complements the academic rigor, making Ferris State University a comprehensive educational institution.

The Traverse City Campus of Ferris State University, located in partnership with Northwestern Michigan College, serves students in northern Michigan by offering accessible higher education options. This regional campus focuses on providing programs tailored to the needs of the local community and workforce.

• Business Administration: Offers associate and bachelor’s degrees with concentrations in Management and Marketing, designed for career advancement in regional businesses.
• Education: Includes programs for Early Childhood Education and Elementary Education, preparing educators for local schools with a focus on practical teaching skills.
• Health Professions: Features degrees in Nursing and Allied Health, addressing the demand for healthcare professionals in the Traverse City area.
• General Studies: Provides flexible degree options for students seeking a broad education or transferring credits to complete a bachelor’s degree.
• Professional and Technical Programs: Offers certificates and associate degrees in fields like Culinary Arts and Hospitality Management, reflecting the region’s tourism industry.

The Traverse City Campus emphasizes small class sizes and personalized attention, ensuring students receive support tailored to their academic and career goals. The campus leverages its partnership with Northwestern Michigan College to provide access to shared facilities, including libraries and labs, enhancing the learning experience. Many programs are designed for working adults, with flexible scheduling and online course options available. The campus also focuses on community engagement, connecting students with local employers for internships and job placement. Surrounded by the natural beauty of northern Michigan, the Traverse City Campus offers a unique blend of academic opportunity and regional relevance, making higher education accessible to a wider audience in the area.