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Michigan State University hospitality graduates earn $43,269 annually, nearly 50% more than those from Northern Michigan University at $28,816, creating a stark earnings divide among the state's 12 programs. With net costs ranging from just $576 at Henry Ford College to $26,429 at Northwood University, students face dramatically different value propositions. Michigan's tourism industry generates over $25 billion annually, while major casino resorts and convention centers in Detroit create steady demand for hospitality managers throughout the state.
12
Programs
$576 – $26,429
Net Price Range
$34,864
Avg. Program Earnings
52.3%
Avg. Graduation Rate

12 Hospitality Administration/Management Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price Program Earnings In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $12,202 $29,685 $13,630 47.9% 87.9%
2 $16,041 $37,424 $14,190 61.8% 79.0%
3 $20,751 $43,269 $15,988 82.2% 88.0%
4 $17,084 $35,213 $15,510 45.5% 83.2%
5 $17,096 $34,779 $14,628 68.6% 90.4%
6 $17,485 $28,816 $13,304 50.8% 70.6%
7 $21,019 $24,842 39.4% 67.5%
8 $26,409 $34,200 50.0% 70.2%
9 $576 $3,460 10.6%
10 $17,815 $27,360 58.1% 64.8%
11 $26,429 $33,000 61.1% 79.7%
12 $17,185 $29,778 51.1% 65.0%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the $14,453 earnings gap between the highest and lowest-paying programs?

Michigan State University's 82.2% graduation rate and established industry connections help explain why its graduates earn $43,269 compared to $28,816 at Northern Michigan University. The difference often reflects program depth, internship quality, and alumni networks in major hospitality markets.

How does Henry Ford College's $576 net cost compare to other options?

Henry Ford College offers the state's most affordable entry point at $576 net cost, though its 10.6% graduation rate suggests completion challenges. Students can transfer credits to four-year programs like Central Michigan University, where the net cost jumps to $16,041 but graduation rates reach 61.8%.

Is private education worth the premium for hospitality management in Michigan?

Private programs cost significantly more, with Northwood University at $26,429 and Concordia at $26,409 versus public options averaging under $18,000. However, earnings data isn't available for most private schools, making return on investment difficult to calculate.

Where do Michigan hospitality graduates find the best job opportunities?

Detroit's three major casinos, Grand Rapids' convention facilities, and Traverse City's resort industry create concentrated opportunities. Michigan State graduates earning $43,269 often secure management positions in these markets, while the state's $25 billion tourism economy supports entry-level roles statewide.

Net price reflects the average cost after grants and scholarships for first-time, full-time students. See our methodology for details.