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Lake Superior State University (LSSU) stands as a beacon of higher education in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, nestled in the town of Sault Ste. Marie. This public university opens doors to an engaged learning experience with a focus on hands-on and real-world education, which might resonate with your career aspirations and personal growth. With a rich history dating back to its founding in 1946 to meet the educational needs of returning World War II veterans, LSSU offers an intimate campus setting across approximately 115 acres, fostering a close-knit community where you can thrive academically and socially. The campus also has buildings that are recognized in the National Register of Historic Places.


Overview of Lake Superior State University (LSSU)


The university's strategic location also positions you uniquely, with access to cross-border educational opportunities. The proximity to Canada enriches your educational experience, thanks to partnerships and joint programs catering to both American and Canadian students. These collaborative efforts reflect LSSU’s dedication to expanding your academic horizons and enhancing your global perspective, pivotal facets that constitute a comprehensive university education.

General Information


School Type Public
Campus Setting Town: Remote
Campus Housing Yes
Student Faculty Ratio 14:1
Graduation Rate 51%
Year Founded 1946

Student Enrollment


Total Students1,984

Undergraduate
1,984
Graduate
0

Undergraduate Student

Male 913
913
Female 1,071
1,071

Graduate Student

Male 0
0
Female 0
0

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Lake Superior State University Acceptance Rate and Admissions


APPLICATIONS1,702

Male 634
Female 1,068

ACCEPTANCE970

Male 393
Female 577

Acceptance Rate57%

Male 62%
Female 54%

Enrollment 320

Male 151
Female 169
Admissions
Application Fee N/A
High School GPA Required
High School Rank Recommended
High School Transcripts Required
College Prep Courses Recommended
Recommendations N/A
SAT/ACT Required
TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) Considered But Not Required
Application Deadline Rolling
Common Application Accepted No

LSSU Tuition Cost & Financial Aid


At Lake Superior State University (LSSU), the average cost of attendance for the 2023-24 academic year was $14,266 for in-state students. Those attending from out-of-state pay closer to $28,000.

Compared with the national average of in-state tuition, which is $9,678, LSSU's tuition is slightly higher. However, financial aid is widely accessible to offset these costs. In fact, at LSSU, 96% of students received some form of financial aid in a recent year, placing LSSU favorably among institutions for financial aid provision.

When it comes to financial aid, the average amount received by undergraduates is $10,816. It's crucial to note that this can come from various sources including grants, scholarships, federal loans, and even private loans.

Potential financial aid options include:

  • Grants: Typically do not have to be repaid
  • Scholarships: Awarded based on merit or criteria
  • Federal Loans: Must be repaid, usually offer lower interest rates than private options
  • Private Loans: An alternative or supplement to federal loans

After factoring in financial aid, the net price (price paid out-of-pocket after financial aid is applied) for students sits at roughly $14,336. This includes not just tuition, but also fees, books, supplies, and living expenses. And those who received the most financial aid paid around $8,411 annually.

Average net price 2018-2019
Net Price $12,310
Average Total Aid $10,539
Students Receiving Financial Aid 96%
Room & Board $10,230

Sticker Price


  • Tuition In-State - $12,255
  • Tuition Out-of-State - $12,255
  • Books and Supplies - $1,200
  • Room & Board - $10,230
  • Other - $1,850

Popular Academic Programs at LSSU


As you contemplate your academic journey, you can consider a diverse array of programs Lake Superior State University (LSSU) provides, ranging from sciences to liberal arts, geared toward equipping you with the necessary skills to succeed in your chosen field. The university's long-standing reputation is fortified by its accredited programs, including a notably recognized fire science program, reflecting its commitment to academic excellence. With a student-to-faculty ratio conducive to personalized attention, you stand to gain an education tailored to your needs. You will find robust options whether you're starting your undergraduate journey, pursuing graduate studies, or seeking online education.

At the undergraduate level, LSSU provides a solid foundation in both liberal arts and specialized fields. You can choose from programs in the sciences, business, or technology. Notable for its small class sizes, LSSU maintains a student-faculty ratio of 13:1, ensuring personal attention and a focused learning environment. For a more hands-on experience, several courses integrate practical projects and fieldwork.

If you require flexibility in your education, LSSU's online courses can help you plan your classes around your schedule. These courses are crafted to provide you with the same quality education as on-campus students. Online learning at LSSU utilizes a range of technologies to deliver course material and facilitate interaction with faculty and peers, ensuring that you receive comprehensive support throughout your educational journey.

Student Population Total


Student Population 1,984

Undergraduate
1,984
Graduate
0
Evening Classes : No
Online Learning : Yes

Most Popular Programs & Majors

(# of Diplomas Awarded by Subject)


Homeland Security, Law Enforcement, Firefighting and Related Protective Services 71 Total Graduates / 18%
Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration 42 Graduates
Fire Science/Fire-fighting 21 Graduates
Homeland Security 6 Graduates
Corrections 1 Graduates
Corrections and Criminal Justice, Other 1 Graduates
Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services 61 Total Graduates / 16%
Business Administration and Management, General 19 Graduates
Accounting 11 Graduates
Business/Commerce, General 11 Graduates
Finance, General 10 Graduates
Health Professions and Related Programs 47 Total Graduates / 12%
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse 46 Graduates
Clinical Laboratory Science/Medical Technology/Technologist 1 Graduates
Engineering 28 Total Graduates / 7%
Mechanical Engineering 17 Graduates
Computer Engineering, General 7 Graduates
Electrical and Electronics Engineering 4 Graduates
Natural Resources and Conservation 27 Total Graduates / 7%
Fishing and Fisheries Sciences and Management 24 Graduates
Environmental Science 3 Graduates
All Other Diplomas 40%

Outcome & Salary


In evaluating your potential return on investment from an education at Lake Superior State University (LSSU), you'll find concrete outcomes and salary data that reflect the value of the degrees offered.

Six years after starting their studies, LSSU alumni have an average salary of around $32,000 per year. As you invest more time in your career, that average salary typically grows. Ten years after graduation, LSSU graduates are estimated to earn an average of $40,300 annually.

Graduates Salary
College Grads Early Career Salary $47,500
College Grads Average Salary $64,203
College Grads Mid Career Salary $79,000
Return on Investment (ROI)
10 Year Salary Earnings Potential $642,030
20 Year Salary Earnings Potential $1,432,030
Cost of Education (Net Price) 4 Year $49,240
10 Year Projected ROI $592,790
20 Year Projected ROI $1,382,790
No College Education Salary Comparison
National Average Salary $38,792
10 Year Projected Income $387,920
20 Year Projected Income $775,840

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