Western Michigan University has an international reputation in fields as varied as aviation, graph theory, medieval studies, engineering and jazz studies. Besides, it offers access to state-of-the-art academic facilities for more than 25,000 students. The University attracts students from every state in the union and over 80 other countries. Its more than 1,000 faculty members have been trained at some of the world's finest institutions and they bring to the University a global perspective that enhances the learning environment.

WMU has consists of separate degree-granting colleges: Arts and Sciences, Aviation, the Haworth College of Business, Education, Engineering and Applied Sciences, Fine Arts, and Health and Human Services as well as the Graduate College, and the Lee Honors College (one of the oldest honors programs in the nation).

Extended University Programs at WMU aims to provide high quality graduate and undergraduate degree programs, non-credit programs, professional development, and personal enrichment options. Western Michigan University offers also some programs online. 

Undergraduate students at WMU may choose from 140 program offerings while graduate students may select from 67 master’s, one specialist and 29 doctoral programs. A number of programs at both the undergraduate and graduate levels have attained national recognition.