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Cheapest Social Sciences Colleges in Michigan

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

Michigan's cheapest Social Sciences program comes from University of Michigan-Dearborn at just $10,904 net cost, while the most expensive reaches $21,158 at Olivet. This $10,254 gap reflects the state's mix of strong public institutions and smaller private colleges serving different student populations. Michigan's automotive giants like Ford and GM increasingly value social science graduates for market research, human resources, and community relations roles. The state's 17 programs show dramatic variation in outcomes, from University of Michigan-Ann Arbor's 93.20% graduation rate to Olivet's 37.00%. Central Michigan University graduates earn $25,967 starting salaries, while Michigan State graduates command $38,289. The Michigan Achievement Scholarship provides up to $5,500 for in-state students, making public options even more attractive. Grand Valley State graduates carry moderate debt loads of $26,932, reflecting careful program management in a state where manufacturing and healthcare sectors continue expanding their need for social science expertise.
17
Programs
$10,904 – $26,409
Net Price Range
$32,762
Avg. Program Earnings
61.1%
Avg. Graduation Rate

17 Social Sciences, General 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 $14,368 $14,266 56.9% 76.9%
4 $14,832 $17,228 93.2% 17.7%
5 $15,729 $18,392 68.7% 93.7%
6 $16,041 $14,190 61.8% 79.0%
7 $16,882 $55,746 57.1% 66.5%
8 $17,084 $15,510 45.5% 83.2%
9 $17,096 $14,628 68.6% 90.4%
10 $17,185 $29,778 51.1% 65.0%
11 $18,597 $33,710 65.9% 91.3%
12 $18,902 $38,520 62.5% 90.8%
13 $20,751 $15,988 82.2% 88.0%
14 $20,899 $32,580 59.9% 47.3%
15 $21,158 $33,076 37.0% 84.6%
16 $24,783 $38,670 77.4% 74.2%
17 $26,409 $34,200 50.0% 70.2%

Frequently Asked Questions

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

University of Michigan-Dearborn combines strong financial aid with lower base costs compared to Ann Arbor's flagship campus. The school maintains University of Michigan academic standards while serving the Detroit metro area at $14,944 in-state tuition. Graduates earn $31,305 starting salaries, providing solid returns on the modest investment. The 54.10% acceptance rate makes admission competitive but achievable for most qualified students.

How do public and private school costs compare for Social Sciences in Michigan?

Public schools dominate the affordable rankings, with eight of the ten cheapest programs coming from state institutions. University of Michigan-Dearborn leads at $10,904, while Eastern Michigan costs $17,084 net. Private school Albion College charges $16,882 despite a sticker price of $55,746, showing how generous aid packages can bridge cost gaps. Most public programs range from $10,904 to $20,751, offering consistent value statewide.

Does graduation rate correlate with program cost in Michigan?

Not necessarily, creating opportunities for value-conscious students. University of Michigan-Ann Arbor achieves 93.20% graduation rates at $14,832 net cost, while Lake Superior State reaches 56.90% at similar $14,368 pricing. Michigan Technological University graduates 68.70% of students for $15,729, demonstrating that mid-tier pricing can deliver strong completion rates. The University of Olivet shows how high costs don't guarantee success, with only 37.00% graduation rates despite $21,158 net pricing.

Where do Michigan Social Sciences graduates find employment opportunities?

Michigan's automotive sector employs social science graduates in market research, labor relations, and community outreach roles at companies like General Motors and Ford. The state's growing healthcare industry also recruits heavily, with starting salaries ranging from $25,967 at Central Michigan to $38,289 at Michigan State. Grand Rapids and Detroit metro areas offer additional opportunities in nonprofit management, government service, and consulting. Michigan State graduates typically earn the highest starting salaries at $38,289, reflecting strong alumni networks and employer relationships.

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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.