The university’s key messages are derived from Grand Valley’s mission, vision, and values, as well as research with the university’s constituency groups.

• Named one of the Top Public Schools in America by U.S. News & World Report, 2025.
   
• Named one of the Best Colleges in the Midwest by The Princeton Review, 2026.
   
• Lower tuition than most Michigan public universities, including Michigan State, Michigan Tech, and Wayne State. 
   
• 44% of four-year grads leave with no debt (‘23-’24).
   
• $319M+ in financial aid awarded to 22,600+ students in one year (‘23-’24).
   
• Enrolls students from every Michigan county, across the U.S., and 77 countries.

• Multiple campuses and regional centers across Michigan provide increased access.
   
• Grand Valley’s programs and partnerships directly support local and statewide economies.
   
• 94% of faculty members hold a doctorate or terminal degree.
   
• Small classes (average of 24 students, 15:1 student-to-faculty ratio) offer personal attention from outstanding faculty members.
   
• Faculty members mentor students through research, blending academics with real-world experience.
   
• Grand Valley is a Fulbright Top Producer with over 55 faculty and staff members who have earned awards since 1964.

• 100+ of our academic programs touch on STEM or health professions.
   
• Home to one of the largest state-of-the-art health simulation centers in Michigan.
   
• Our Mary Idema Pew Library and Learning Commons was purpose-built for 21st-century, collaborative learning. 
   
• Our liberal education foundation connects to career paths while encouraging critical thinking.
   
• Numerous student support services, cultural centers, and diverse student organizations.
   
• Named a Top 100 degree-producing school for minority students.

• Awarded the 2025 Seal of Excelencia Award for service to Latino students.
   
• Faculty members are known for accessibility, mentorship, and personal engagement.
   
• Community programs and sustainability efforts (LEED) demonstrate our values in action.
   
• Students can take advantage of over 4,000 study abroad opportunities.
   
• Multi-campus experience combined with online learning gives Grand Valley students the benefits of a large university with the personalized attention of a small school.

• 4,963 students participated in experiential learning in 2024.
   
• Undergraduate students collaborate with faculty members on research projects that would only be available to graduate students at other schools.
   
• City Campus integrates academics with hands-on experience in thriving industries.

• Our graduates have a 94% placement rate with 97% employed or pursuing grad school.
   
• 86% of grads are working in Michigan, directly contributing to the region’s growth.
   
• The Peter C. Cook Leadership Academy at the Hauenstein Center prepares 60+ students each year to transform their communities through leadership and service.