2026 Best Value Value Schools in the Great Lakes Region

1

Michigan Technological University
Houghton, MI

Leading the list is Michigan Technological University, our #1 best value for value in the Great Lakes Region. Set in the town of Houghton, Michigan Technological University is a moderately-sized public institution. Expect in-state tuition and fees of around $20,532, compared with $44,807 for out-of-state students. Typical student debt for value graduates is $25,800. Value graduates of Michigan Technological University earn a median of $64,652 early in their careers. Set against $25,800 in median debt, that is a healthy payoff. The acceptance rate is 92%.

2

Ohio University Main Campus
Athens, OH

Ohio University Main Campus is a great value for students pursuing a degree in value, landing the #2 spot this year. Ohio University Main Campus is a very large public school located in the town of Athens. The average in-state cost of tuition and fees is $14,158, while out-of-state students pay about $24,838. Value graduates carry a median of $24,546 in student loans. Soon after graduation, value degree recipients from Ohio University Main Campus generally make around $103,961. That is a strong return on a $24,546 median debt. The acceptance rate is 85%.

3

Lawrence Technological University
Southfield, MI

The strong cost-to-outcome balance at Lawrence Technological University earned it the #3 place for value. Set in the city of Southfield, Lawrence Technological University is a mid-sized private not-for-profit institution. The average in-state cost of tuition and fees is $44,760. Students borrow a median of $27,799 to complete the value program here. Early-career value graduates make about $74,924. Weighed against typical debt, the earnings make a compelling case for value. Lawrence Technological University admits about 56% of applicants.