Lake Superior State University
Division II
City: Sault Ste. Marie, MI
Country: United States
Established: 1946
World academic ranking:
Ranked among Regional Universities Midwest by U.S. News & World Report; recognized for strong undergraduate teaching, value, and hands-on engineering and science programs
Contact:
Undergraduate population:
Approximately 1,800 undergraduate students reported for the 2023–2024 academic year
Est. books, tuition & fees:
Domestic undergraduate tuition & fees: approximately US $13,000–$14,000 tuition + fees per academic year for in-state students; out-of-state tuition is higher (approximately $13,000–$15,000 total tuition & fees)
International undergraduate students generally pay out-of-state rates (approximately US $13,000–$15,000 per year), though total cost of attendance (tuition + room/board + indirect expenses) can bring the annual cost to about $25,000–$32,000+ before financial aid or scholarships.
Books, course materials, supplies allowance: Not specified in published standard figures (costs vary by program; students often estimate textbooks and materials separately)
Ice Hockey Program - Men’s & Women’s:
Lake Superior State Lakers athletics compete in ACHA Division II
Association: ACAH Division II (Men’s) / ACHA (Women’s)
Conference: Central Collegiate Hockey Association (CCHA) – Men’s
Teams: Men’s Ice Hockey (Varsity) & Women’s Ice Hockey (Club)
Arena: Taffy Abel Arena - on-campus home arena
Closest Major Airports:
Chippewa County International Airport (CIU): 20 miles (32 km) from campus (primary regional airport)
Pellston Regional Airport (PLN): 90 miles (145 km) south
Sault Ste. Marie Airport (YAM): 15 miles (24 km) across the Canadian border
Academic Overview
Lake Superior State University is a public university known for its hands-on, career-oriented academic programs and strong support system for student-athletes. Founded with a focus on practical education and workforce readiness, LSSU emphasizes applied learning, small class sizes, and individualized instruction—making it especially well-suited for athletes balancing academics with competitive athletics.
LSSU’s curriculum is designed to connect classroom learning directly to real-world experience, with personalized advising, faculty mentorship, and experiential learning opportunities. Student-athletes benefit from structured academic support, flexible scheduling options, and an environment that prioritizes accountability, time management, and career preparation alongside athletic performance.
Academics and RankingsCareer-Focused Education:
Lake Superior State University offers undergraduate programs in business, engineering, environmental science, criminal justice, nursing, and fisheries & wildlife management, with a strong emphasis on hands-on projects, labs, and fieldwork. This applied approach helps student-athletes translate discipline, teamwork, and leadership skills from sport into professional success after graduation.
Student-Athlete Support & Outcomes:
LSSU is recognized for its student-centered learning environment, offering strong academic advising, tutoring services, and career preparation resources that align well with the demands of varsity athletics. Many student-athletes graduate with practical experience, industry connections, and direct pathways into careers or graduate study.
Flexible & Applied Learning Model:
The university’s academic structure supports athletes through structured yet adaptable coursework, allowing them to manage travel, training, and competition schedules while maintaining academic progress and eligibility.