Baker College of Auburn Hills

Key Highlights

• Private non-profit institution with strong academic tradition
• Suburban campus with easy access to city resources
• Research-intensive with extensive graduate programs
• Diverse academic programs across multiple disciplines

Student Life & Environment

Student life at Baker College of Auburn Hills differs significantly from traditional college experiences. Many students are adults balancing education with jobs and family responsibilities, which means campus social life is less central than at residential universities. The campus does not have residence halls, and students commute from throughout Oakland County and surrounding areas. Despite the commuter nature of the campus, the college works to create community through student organizations, events, and support services. Academic clubs connect students in similar fields, and some students participate in community service projects organized through the college. The student services office provides career counseling, tutoring, and personal support to help students manage the challenges of pursuing education while handling other life responsibilities. Facilities on the Auburn Hills campus include computer labs, study spaces, and a small library. Students can access career services throughout their programs and after graduation, which reflects the college's focus on employment outcomes. The atmosphere tends toward practical and professional rather than social, which suits students who are focused on getting their credentials and moving forward in their careers.

Location & Surroundings

Auburn Hills occupies an interesting position in the Detroit metropolitan area, sitting in Oakland County's corridor of corporate headquarters and technology companies. The city grew significantly after Chrysler (now Stellantis) moved its headquarters there in the 1990s, and major employers including BorgWarner and Faurecia maintain significant presences in the area. This corporate concentration creates internship and employment opportunities for students in business and technology programs. The suburban setting means students need cars for transportation, as public transit options are limited. Shopping centers, restaurants, and entertainment venues are scattered throughout the area, accessible by the network of roads that crisscross Oakland County. Great Lakes Crossing Outlets provides shopping options, and the Meadow Brook Theatre on the Oakland University campus offers performing arts nearby. The climate follows typical Michigan patterns, with cold winters that require serious preparation and pleasant summers that reward patience through the long gray months. Detroit is about 30 miles south, offering big-city amenities including professional sports, museums, and diverse dining options. The area around Auburn Hills tends toward chain restaurants and suburban shopping centers, though pockets of interesting local businesses exist for those willing to explore. Housing costs in Oakland County run higher than other parts of metro Detroit, though options become more affordable as you move away from the immediate Auburn Hills area.

Costs & Career Outcomes

Tuition at Baker College follows a credit-hour structure, with costs varying somewhat by program. The college has worked to keep costs competitive with public community colleges and regional universities, recognizing that its students often come from working-class backgrounds and need affordable options. Books and supplies add to the total, with some technical programs requiring additional fees for specialized equipment or materials. Financial aid is available through federal programs, including Pell Grants for students with demonstrated need and federal student loans. The college offers some institutional scholarships, though these are more limited than at wealthier private institutions. Many students qualify for significant federal aid, which can substantially reduce out-of-pocket costs. Military veterans can use GI Bill benefits, and the college maintains veteran services to assist with the paperwork and transition to academic life. Career outcomes vary by program, with healthcare and technology fields generally showing stronger employment rates than some other areas. The college's career services office maintains relationships with employers in the region and works to connect graduates with opportunities. Alumni in established careers sometimes help recent graduates through mentoring or referrals. The practical focus of the education means graduates typically enter the workforce ready to contribute, though advancement to higher positions may require additional education or experience.

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