Founded in 1960 in response to a clear need for a university in one of Michigan’s largest metropolitan areas, Grand Valley State University offers a robust and valuable education to its students. While Grand Valley may not have the same name recognition of it’s in-state contemporaries such as University of Michigan or Michigan State University, between it’s smaller class sizes and notable student resources, it’s hard to deny the quality of education it’s students receive.
Resources and Positive Student Experiences
While supporting a student body of 22,400, Grand Valley shows its dedication to an enriching student experience and education. Boasting an average class size of 26, students are given a better chance for an engaging environment in which they can interact and be heard, a stark contrast to other universities’ common two-hundred student lectures. As well, Grand Valley currently operates over four thousand study abroad programs and was rated 6th in the nation for international study participation by the Institute of International Education. In addition to more engaging classrooms and numerous study abroad options, Grand Valley offers many accessible resources in the form of counseling, advising, and therapy in order to best support its students during their time with the university.
Strong Programs and Curriculum
While any one program at Grand Valley will provide a strong education, certain curriculums are often highlighted as standout programs at GVSU. U.S. News and World Report has awarded many Grand Valley undergraduate programs honors such as the engineering, teaching, business, and nursing programs for the strengths and successes of their curriculum.
Inviting Campuses
Although maintaining quite a few locations throughout the state, Grand Valley’s two main campuses are found in the west Michigan area in Allendale and downtown Grand Rapids. The Allendale campus functions as the main campus for most of the university and is home to many beautiful buildings and common areas that deliver the feeling of a large secluded university campus and community for young students to live in. The Grand Rapids campus is nestled right along the river in the scenic downtown area providing a unique and inspiring backdrop to classrooms and study.
Value of Investment
It’s no secret that higher education in the United States is a massive investment into you or your child’s future. Value is a quality that Grand Valley is often lauded for in many national reviews, being called a ‘best value school’ by publications such as Money and U.S. News and World Report. While having an above average graduation rate that is fourth in the state, the school also has lower than average tuition and living costs than other Michigan universities. Contrasting this with everything Grand Valley provides for its students paints the picture of a safe investment and strong destination for prospective students.