University of Michigan vs Ohio State University

Difference between University of Michigan vs Ohio State University

Subject Strength

The University of Michigan is consistently ranked among the top public universities worldwide. In 2026 QS World University Rankings, Michigan ranks #45 in the world and is very strong in Engineering & Technology (#38 in the world), Business & Management (#29), and Medicine (#19). It is world-leading in Computer Science, Economics, and Law too, so it is a wide leader across subject fields.

Ohio State University is a very well-established public research university, ranked #190 globally in QS 2026. It is strongest in disciplines like Agriculture & Forestry (#24 globally) and Nursing (#40). While not as highly ranked as the University of Michigan, it remains strong in Engineering, Computer Science, Sports Science, and Business.

General Information

Michigan University, established in 1817 in Ann Arbor, is an international prestige flag-campus public research university. It has a student body of approximately 51,000 at the undergraduate and graduate levels, with a student-faculty ratio of approximately 15:1. Famed for its academic rigor, Big Ten athletics, and cosmopolitan students, Michigan is one of the finest public universities in the United States.

Ohio State University was Established in 1870 in Columbus, Ohio. One of the largest universities in the U.S., with over 67,000 students enrolled. It's a land-grant research university and a research titan, sports titan, and community titan. It has a great alumni network and one of the biggest campuses in the world with more than 1,600 student organizations and expansive buildings.

Acceptance Rate

The University of Michigan has a selective admissions process with an acceptance rate of about 18% (2025). Its admissions policy is commensurate with its prestige, particularly for such sought-after majors as Business, Engineering, and Computer Science.

Ohio State University is moderately selective with an acceptance rate of around 53% (2025). While admission is a little less restrictive than Michigan's, strong academic preparation is still necessary, especially in competitive majors like Engineering, Nursing, and Business.

Location Facts

University of Michigan is located in Ann Arbor, Michigan, a vibrant college town rated among America's greatest places to live. Ann Arbor has a mix of culture, music, art, and athletics with easy proximity to Detroit and Lake Michigan for recreation.

Ohio State University is located in Columbus, Ohio, 14th largest city in the USA. Columbus presents a mix of urban comforts, affordable cost of living, diverse communities, and career opportunities in healthcare, finance, and technology. Its urban feel combined with a massive student base makes it an ideal city for young professionals.

Hostel Fees

On-campus room costs at the University of Michigan vary on average between $12,000 and $14,500 annually based on residence hall and meal plan. At Ohio State University, housing and meal plans typically cost between $11,000 and $13,500 annually, which is slightly lower than Michigan.

Salary Package & Recruitment Process

University of Michigan graduates have strong career opportunities. Engineering and Business graduates usually earn more than $90,000, with overall average starting salary around $78,000. Google, Microsoft, McKinsey, General Motors, and JPMorgan are among the leading recruiters. Michigan has one of the strongest alumni networks in the world, which is particularly strong in business, law, and politics.

Ohio State University graduates also do well in the workforce, with average starting salaries of approximately $64,000. Engineering, Business, and Health Sciences graduates top the list when it comes to getting above-average packages. The university has strong recruiting ties in the Midwest, with firms such as Nationwide, JPMorgan Chase, Honda, and Amazon actively recruiting OSU students.

Infrastructure

University of Michigan has world-class facilities in the shape of one of the largest research libraries in the U.S., massive labs, innovation centers, and sporting facilities. The Michigan Stadium, popularly known as "The Big House," is the largest stadium in the U.S. and a cultural icon

Ohio State University also possesses an excellent infrastructure, featuring one of the largest university campuses in the globe, the Wexner Medical Center, and the Ohio Stadium ("The Horseshoe") as iconic buildings. Its research laboratories, recreation centers, and libraries also serve as centers of academic as well as social activity.