Introduction
Grand Valley State University (GVSU) is a public research university with a main campus in Allendale, Michigan. Founded in 1960, GVSU has grown to become the second largest university in Michigan with an enrollment of more than 25,000 students. The university’s zip code, 49401, encompasses the Allendale campus as well as the surrounding community.
Academic Programs and Research
GVSU offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across its eight colleges:
- College of Liberal Arts and Sciences: Humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and mathematics
- Brooks College of Interdisciplinary Studies: Interdisciplinary programs that combine multiple fields
- College of Education: Teacher education, counseling, and educational leadership
- College of Health Professions: Nursing, health sciences, and public health
- Seidman College of Business: Business administration, accounting, and economics
- College of Community and Public Service: Social work, criminal justice, and public administration
- Kirkhof College of Nursing: Nursing programs at the undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels
- Cook-DeVos Center for Health Sciences: Biomedical sciences and medical education
GVSU is also home to several research centers and institutes, including the Michigan Alternative and Renewable Energy Center (MAREC), the Van Andel Institute for Education, and the Meijer Public Policy Center. These centers conduct groundbreaking research in areas such as renewable energy, education, and public policy.
Campus Life and Student Services
The GVSU campus is a vibrant and welcoming community that offers a wide range of student support services. These include:
- Housing: On-campus housing is available in a variety of residence halls and apartments
- Dining: A variety of dining options are available on campus, including all-you-can-eat dining halls, cafes, and restaurants
- Health and Wellness: The GVSU Health Center provides medical care, counseling, and health education services
- Counseling and Psychological Services: Provides confidential counseling and support services to students
- Student Life: The Office of Student Life offers a variety of programs and events that enhance the student experience, including student organizations, leadership opportunities, and social events
Allendale Community and Local Amenities
The Allendale community, located just southwest of Grand Rapids, offers a safe and family-friendly environment for GVSU students. The community features a variety of local businesses, restaurants, and shopping centers. Allendale is also home to several parks and recreational areas, including the Allendale Township Park and the Millennium Park Dog Park.
Grand Rapids Metropolitan Area
The GVSU Allendale campus is just a short drive from the vibrant Grand Rapids metropolitan area. Grand Rapids is the second largest city in Michigan, with a population of over 200,000. The city boasts a thriving arts and culture scene, with numerous museums, theaters, and art galleries. Grand Rapids is also home to a variety of professional sports teams, including the Grand Rapids Griffins (hockey) and the Grand Rapids Drive (basketball).
GVSU Impact on the Community
GVSU plays a vital role in the Allendale community and the wider Grand Rapids metropolitan area. The university provides employment for thousands of local residents and contributes millions of dollars to the local economy. GVSU also offers a variety of community engagement programs, such as the Center for Community Service and Learning and the GVSU Extension Program. These programs provide service-learning opportunities for students and connect the university with the surrounding communities.
Conclusion
The GVSU zip code, 49401, represents not only a physical location but also a vibrant educational and community hub. GVSU offers a world-class education in a supportive and thriving community. The university’s commitment to academic excellence, student success, and community engagement makes it a valuable asset to the Allendale area and the wider Grand Rapids region.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the population of GVSU?
A: Over 25,000 students
Q: What is the faculty-to-student ratio at GVSU?
A: 1:20
Q: What is the acceptance rate at GVSU?
A: 75%
Q: What is the average SAT score for incoming freshmen at GVSU?
A: 1170
Q: What is the average ACT score for incoming freshmen at GVSU?
A: 26
Q: What is the average GPA for incoming freshmen at GVSU?
A: 3.6
Q: What is the cost of tuition at GVSU?
A: The cost of tuition for in-state undergraduates is $11,472 per year. The cost of tuition for out-of-state undergraduates is $24,802 per year.
Q: What is the graduation rate at GVSU?
A: 68%
Tables
Table 1: GVSU Enrollment by College
| College | Enrollment |
|---|---|
| College of Liberal Arts and Sciences | 8,500 |
| Brooks College of Interdisciplinary Studies | 2,500 |
| College of Education | 3,000 |
| College of Health Professions | 2,000 |
| Seidman College of Business | 4,000 |
| College of Community and Public Service | 2,500 |
| Kirkhof College of Nursing | 1,500 |
| Cook-DeVos Center for Health Sciences | 500 |
Table 2: GVSU Student Demographics
| Demographic | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Female | 55% |
| Male | 45% |
| White | 75% |
| Black | 10% |
| Hispanic | 10% |
| Asian | 5% |
Table 3: GVSU Faculty Demographics
| Demographic | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Female | 40% |
| Male | 60% |
| White | 80% |
| Black | 10% |
| Hispanic | 5% |
| Asian | 5% |
Table 4: GVSU Graduation Rates by College
| College | Graduation Rate |
|---|---|
| College of Liberal Arts and Sciences | 65% |
| Brooks College of Interdisciplinary Studies | 70% |
| College of Education | 80% |
| College of Health Professions | 75% |
| Seidman College of Business | 70% |
| College of Community and Public Service | 65% |
| Kirkhof College of Nursing | 90% |
| Cook-DeVos Center for Health Sciences | 95% |
