Searching for a university in Michigan? Discover why Midland offers affordability, safety, natural beauty, and real-world business connections.
When searching for a university in Michigan, USA, location matters. Since 1962, Northwood University has called Midland home, becoming an integral part of the community while providing students with unmatched educational opportunities and real-world business experiences.
But why choose Midland specifically among Michigan universities?
Midland is ranked as the #3 best city in Michigan and the #32 best city in America by U.S. News & World Report. It’s a city with a rich history of entrepreneurship, innovation, and business leadership, making it the perfect home for America’s Free Enterprise University.
Why Midland, Michigan?
The Perfect University Location
Choosing higher education in Michigan means choosing a location that supports your growth. Midland offers something special: a combination of historic entrepreneurial spirit, vibrant culture, natural beauty, and modern amenities that create an ideal college experience.
- #32 Best City in America
- #3 Best City in Michigan
- 11% Lower Cost of Living (vs. National Average)
- 2,700+ Acres of Parks & Parkland
- 72 City Parks to Explore
A City Built on Entrepreneurship
Midland was incorporated in 1887 and has always been home to entrepreneurs, business moguls, and innovators. The city’s DNA is entrepreneurial, making it the perfect home for a business-focused institution.
This heritage isn’t just historical. It’s part of the city’s present-day culture, where business success and free enterprise are celebrated and supported.
Lower Cost of Living
One practical advantage of choosing Northwood as your university in Michigan: Midland offers an 11% lower cost of living compared to the national average, according to Forbes. This means your student dollars stretch further!
This can mean a lot more in the long run with housing, food, transportation, and entertainment. You get a higher quality of life for less money, a significant advantage for students managing college expenses.
Safe, Thriving Community
Midland is consistently ranked among America’s best cities. This isn’t a coincidence; it’s the result of community commitment to safety, education, and quality of life.
When you choose Northwood as your university in Michigan, you’re choosing to study in a community that genuinely cares about its residents and visitors. With inclusion, you’re bound to blossom.
Perfect Size: Not Too Big, Not Too Small
As the Goldilocks of college towns, Midland is large enough to offer diverse activities and opportunities, but small enough that you won’t feel lost. You get the benefits of a thriving city without the chaos of megacity living.
Midland is a city that has earned its reputation as one of America’s best places to live and study. Not many cities can claim that.
Michigan’s Four Seasons
What To Expect When Being in Michigan
Summer
(June-Sept)Fall
(Sept-Dec)Winter
(Dec-March)Spring
(March-June)Temperature 80°F (~27°C) 73°F to 34°F (23°C to 1°C)
30°F to 44°F (-1°C to 7°C), and can drop below 0°F (-18°C)58°F to 78°F (14°C to 26°C) Clothing Light cotton, shorts, short sleeves Layered clothing for temperature changes Sweaters, down coats, hats, gloves Warm sweaters, fleece, coats, layers Note Hot and humid; most buildings are air-conditioned Ranges from hot to very cold Often snowing Can snow in April; variable conditions
Why Students Choose Michigan for Colleges and Universities
The Benefits of Studying in Midland, Michigan
From world-class theatrical performances to art galleries to unique dining experiences, Midland offers entertainment for every interest. You won’t have to travel far to find something new to explore.
The Great Lakes Loons, a minor league baseball team, call Midland home, providing accessible professional sports entertainment right here. Catch a game and experience the community spirit.
Midland is surrounded by forests, gardens, and natural areas that offer endless recreational opportunities. With 2,700+ acres of parks and parkland and 72 city parks, nature is always accessible. Whether you want to hike, bike, or simply relax outdoors, Midland provides endless options.
The Tridge, the nation’s only three-legged pedestrian bridge, is just one of Midland’s unique attractions. And, just minutes from campus, the Chippewa Nature Center is one of the largest private nonprofit nature centers in the United States. With over 1,500 acres and 19 miles of trails, it’s an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise.
You can also experience 110 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens at Dow Gardens & Whiting Forest. The Whiting Forest features the longest canopy walk in the nation, suspended four stories above the forest floor, offering a unique perspective of the forest ecosystem.
It’s the kind of distinctive experience available because of Midland’s location and community.
And if you’re more interested in the arts, the Midland Center for the Arts is a cultural hub hosting Broadway tours, symphony orchestra performances, art exhibitions, and the renowned Alden B. Museum of Science and Art.
The Pendulum Lounge offers unique food and entertainment experiences. This world-class facility means you don’t have to leave Midland to experience top-tier cultural programming.
In addition, there’s a nonprofit community arts center, Creative 360, that creates environments where people of all ages and abilities experience the creative process. Creative 360 enhances physical, mental, and spiritual wellness through artistic engagement.
Midland hosts numerous community events throughout the year, from farmers’ markets to art festivals to the famous Northwood International Auto Show. There’s always something happening.
Downtown is pedestrian-friendly, safe, and vibrant, meaning you can easily walk to restaurants, shops, and entertainment. Best part? No car is required to enjoy city life.
400+ Acres to Explore and Grow In
Northwood University Is Your Home
Northwood University occupies more than 400 acres of beautifully wooded campus space in the heart of Midland. This spacious campus provides the perfect balance.
Northwood gives enough room to feel like a true campus experience, yet it is centrally positioned within the city so you have easy access to everything Midland offers. The forested setting provides a peaceful environment for studying while maintaining close proximity to the city.
Our campus is a destination for the entire Midland community.
Northwood doesn’t operate as an isolated island. We host public events, athletic competitions, cultural performances, and community gatherings. This integration means you’ll have opportunities for networking and engagement that extend beyond the typical university experience.
Northwood’s Community Impact
Being Part of Something Bigger
When you choose Northwood University as your university in Michigan, you’re also joining an institution that’s deeply integrated with and committed to its community. This creates unique opportunities for service, networking, and growth.
Go MAD Day: Make a Difference
Every year, Northwood University organizes Go MAD (Make a Difference) Day, mobilizing students, faculty, and staff to serve the Midland community. In a single day, hundreds of Northwood community members provide service to dozens of organizations. It’s a testament to Northwood’s commitment to giving back.
Our Midland Campus
Visit our beautiful 400-acre campus in one of America’s best cities. Experience the Northwood difference in a location that combines entrepreneurial spirit, cultural richness, natural beauty, and genuine community welcome. Your university journey starts here in Midland, Michigan.
When choosing a university in Michigan, location is rather more than just geography. It’s about the environment where you’ll spend four formative years of your life. Northwood University in Midland offers something special.
What sets Northwood apart is the intangible element: community. Midland welcomes students.
The city genuinely values education and business development. Northwood students become part of something bigger, a legacy of entrepreneurship and free enterprise that dates back to the city’s founding.
If you’re searching for a university in Michigan with an exceptional location, community integration, and commitment to business education, Northwood University in Midland is the answer.
Visit our campus, explore Midland, and discover why thousands of students have made Northwood their home. Your future in business starts here, in one of America’s best cities.
