Kettering University
The Vibe Check
Kettering University feels like a professional engineering firm that also happens to be a college campus. The atmosphere is intensely collaborative and project-focused, driven by the famous 'co-op' program that blurs the line between student and employee. It's a tight-knit, gritty community where hands-on problem-solving is valued just as much as theory.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
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Academics & Majors
Kettering's academics are laser-focused on applied engineering and technology, with a curriculum heavily integrated with real-world industry problems. The teaching quality is high, emphasizing practical skills over abstract theory, and research opportunities are often directly tied to paid co-op placements with major corporations. The signature B-cycle program (alternating terms of work and study) is the core of the academic experience.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Flint
Student life in Flint revolves around campus activities and exploring the city's revitalizing arts and food scene. Students often participate in outdoor recreation at nearby state parks and lakes, or catch games and events downtown. The city offers a low cost of living and a genuine Midwestern college town feel despite its urban setting.
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Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($94,823):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
Kettering University has its own dedicated campus police force and maintains a safe, well-lit campus environment. While Flint has crime challenges, the campus itself is generally considered secure, and students are advised to use campus safety services like escorts.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
Kettering University is renowned for its pioneering co-op education program, where students alternate between academic terms and full-time paid work in their field. It is particularly famous for its engineering and computer science programs, with deep historical ties to the automotive industry and a strong focus on robotics.
Kettering has an acceptance rate of 79.09%, making it generally accessible, but the average SAT score of 1219 indicates they seek academically prepared students. The admissions process heavily values practical experience and a demonstrated interest in STEM fields, so a strong application goes beyond just grades and test scores.
Campus life is highly collaborative and project-oriented, with a student body deeply engaged in their studies and co-op work. The small enrollment of around 1,300 students fosters a tight-knit community where students often work together on engineering projects and belong to numerous student clubs and professional organizations.
For students dedicated to engineering and technology, Kettering can be an excellent investment. The combination of high starting salaries, significant co-op earnings that offset tuition, and a 70% graduation rate suggests a strong return. The value is maximized for those who fully leverage the co-op program to gain experience and income.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded 1934
- Type Private
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 1,633
- In-State Tuition $46,380
- Zip Code 48504
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With a 10-year median earnings of nearly $95,000, Kettering offers a strong return on investment for a STEM-focused education. While the sticker price is high, the co-op earnings can significantly offset costs, and the high graduation and retention rates suggest strong student outcomes. For students pursuing engineering or computer science, the ROI is competitive with many larger public universities.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.