At $14,832/yr net price, University of Michigan-Ann Arbor graduates earn $83,648/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $49,648/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $14,832 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $59,328 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $83,648/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$49,648/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 1.2 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 93.2% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $19,500 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $4,926/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $5,389/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $8,756/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $16,042/yr |
| $110,001+ | $26,787/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced/Graduate Dentistry and Oral Sciences. | Master | $178,741 | $186,255 |
| Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences, Other. | Master | $168,125 | |
| Computer Engineering. | Master | $157,288 | |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Master | $140,166 | $56,932 |
| Law. | Doctoral | $139,927 | $132,524 |
| Systems Engineering. | Master | $116,354 | |
| Dentistry. | Doctoral | $112,215 | $224,000 |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Doctoral | $101,964 | |
| Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering. | Master | $99,772 | $21,795 |
| Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Administration. | Doctoral | $97,071 | $147,368 |
The Risk Factor
93.2% of students at University of Michigan-Ann Arbor graduate within 6 years. Most students who start here finish their degree.
Analysis
University of Michigan-Ann Arbor delivers strong financial returns despite its public school status, with graduates earning significantly above the national average across most programs. The combination of relatively low debt loads and high earnings makes this one of the better ROI choices among flagship universities.
Engineering and computer science programs lead the pack financially, with computer engineering graduates earning over $157,000 annually. Business administration also pays off well at $140,000, though you'll carry moderate debt of $57,000. The dental and health sciences programs show excellent earnings but require substantial borrowing that could reach $186,000 for advanced dentistry.
Law presents a mixed picture. While $140,000 in median earnings sounds strong, the $132,000 debt load means you need to land higher-paying positions to justify the investment. Legal markets in Michigan offer decent opportunities, but consider whether you'll practice in higher-cost markets where Michigan's law degree travels well.
The biggest financial risk is overestimating your earning potential in lower-paying majors. Michigan's prestige helps with graduate school admissions and networking, but it won't magically transform modest-earning fields into high-paying careers. Liberal arts and social science majors should have clear post-graduation plans.
Michigan works best financially if you're in-state, qualify for need-based aid, or can secure merit scholarships. Out-of-state students face much higher costs that change the ROI equation significantly. The low percentage receiving aid suggests merit money is competitive.
You're looking at a solid investment if you can access in-state pricing and choose a program aligned with Michigan's strengths in engineering, business, or health sciences. Out-of-state students should carefully weigh costs against career outcomes in their specific field.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is University of Michigan-Ann Arbor worth the cost?
Yes, Michigan-Ann Arbor delivers strong ROI with graduates earning $83,648 annually after 10 years while keeping debt low at $19,500 median. The $14,832 net price after aid makes it affordable for most students, and the 93% graduation rate shows students actually finish.
What are the highest paying majors at University of Michigan-Ann Arbor?
Dentistry leads at $178,741 annually, followed by health professions at $168,125 and computer engineering at $157,288. Business and law graduates earn around $140,000, making these programs worth the investment.
How much debt do University of Michigan-Ann Arbor students graduate with?
The median debt is $19,500, which is manageable given graduate earnings of $83,648. Strong financial aid keeps the actual cost at $14,832 per year for most students.
Does University of Michigan-Ann Arbor give good financial aid?
Yes, aid is solid with net price averaging $14,832 annually despite higher sticker prices. This makes Michigan-Ann Arbor accessible while maintaining strong earning potential after graduation.