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Cheapest Economics Colleges in Michigan

Ranked by lowest net price after financial aid. See our methodology.

Michigan economics programs reveal striking price gaps that reflect the state's educational market. University of Michigan-Dearborn delivers economics education for just $10,904 annually, while Kalamazoo College costs $18,873 despite being a private institution. The $50,925 earnings difference between top and bottom performers shows how school choice impacts career trajectories. Michigan's automotive giants like Ford and GM continue recruiting economics graduates for market analysis and supply chain management roles. State residents benefit from the Michigan Achievement Scholarship covering up to $5,500 in tuition costs. Public universities dominate the affordable end, with eight of the ten cheapest options being state institutions. However, graduates from these budget-friendly programs often secure positions at $40,000+ starting salaries. The state's growing healthcare and technology sectors create additional opportunities beyond traditional automotive industry roles.
21
Programs
$10,904 – $25,749
Net Price Range
$41,673
Avg. Program Earnings
64.5%
Avg. Graduation Rate

21 Economics Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $10,904 $14,944 56.6% 54.1%
2 $12,280 $14,014 44.6% 66.4%
3 $13,584 $14,694 56.9% 90.1%
4 $14,773 $14,297 56.5% 75.3%
5 $14,832 $17,228 93.2% 17.7%
6 $15,729 $18,392 68.7% 93.7%
7 $16,041 $14,190 61.8% 79.0%
8 $16,179 $32,300 68.1% 90.5%
9 $16,882 $55,746 57.1% 66.5%
10 $17,084 $15,510 45.5% 83.2%
11 $17,096 $14,628 68.6% 90.4%
12 $17,485 $13,304 50.8% 70.6%
13 $18,701 $15,298 57.8% 84.6%
14 $18,873 $58,764 81.7% 79.3%
15 $18,902 $38,520 62.5% 90.8%
16 $20,751 $15,988 82.2% 88.0%
17 $21,504 $40,556 56.0% 69.1%
18 $22,384 $29,100 61.6% 81.8%
19 $24,663 $47,430 63.7% 64.7%
20 $24,783 $38,670 77.4% 74.2%
21 $25,749 $40,420 82.3% 80.5%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes University of Michigan-Dearborn the cheapest option at $10,904?

UM-Dearborn offers the lowest net price while maintaining strong academic standards with a 56.6% graduation rate. The school benefits from University of Michigan system resources while serving the Detroit metropolitan area. Graduates earn a median $43,575 annually, providing solid returns on the minimal investment. The campus location near major automotive headquarters creates direct pipelines to industry employment.

How do private college costs compare to public universities in Michigan?

Private institutions like Kalamazoo College charge $58,764 in sticker price but offer substantial aid bringing costs to $18,873. University of Detroit Mercy provides similar affordability at $16,179 net cost. Public universities consistently offer lower barriers to entry, with 12 schools under $18,000 annually. The private school advantage often appears in smaller class sizes and alumni networks rather than pure cost savings.

Does University of Michigan-Ann Arbor justify its higher $14,832 cost?

Ann Arbor graduates earn $61,829 annually, nearly $18,000 more than the next highest earners. The 93.2% graduation rate leads all Michigan economics programs by significant margins. Despite higher upfront costs, graduates carry just $18,750 in debt compared to $27,000+ at several cheaper alternatives. The school's national reputation opens doors to top consulting firms and financial institutions.

Where do Michigan economics graduates typically find employment?

Michigan's automotive sector employs many graduates in market research, pricing strategy, and supply chain economics roles. Healthcare systems like Beaumont and Spectrum Health hire economists for cost analysis and policy development. The state's emerging technology corridor around Grand Rapids creates opportunities in data analysis and business intelligence. Government positions at state and federal levels remain steady sources of employment for program alumni.

Is the $50,925 earnings gap between top and bottom schools worth considering?

Eastern Michigan graduates earn $26,353 while Ann Arbor alumni start at $61,829, creating substantial lifetime income differences. However, debt loads vary significantly, with some expensive schools producing heavily indebted graduates. Students should calculate total return on investment rather than focusing solely on starting salaries. Regional employment opportunities can help bridge earnings gaps for graduates from more affordable programs.

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