Analysis
Based on comparable construction management programs in Michigan, Baker College graduates can expect solid financial returns—with estimated first-year earnings around $73,000 against roughly $27,000 in debt, this produces a manageable 0.36 debt-to-earnings ratio. That's competitive with established state programs like Ferris State and Eastern Michigan, suggesting the field itself offers strong earning potential regardless of where you study in Michigan.
The estimated debt runs slightly above both state and national medians for construction management bachelor's programs, which typically carry $24,000-$24,500. However, construction management offers a meaningful advantage: graduates enter a field with clear career pathways and consistent demand. The earning estimates align closely with national medians for the major, indicating Michigan construction managers aren't at a geographic disadvantage.
What matters most here is that construction management delivers practical value—the debt burden represents about four months of estimated first-year salary. While we'd prefer hard data specific to Baker College's outcomes, the consistency across Michigan's construction programs suggests this is a relatively safe bet. Your child would be entering a profession where the credential translates directly to employability, making this a more straightforward investment than many bachelor's degrees.
Where Baker College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all construction management bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Michigan
Construction Management bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Michigan (7 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $12,810 | $73,292* | — | $26,750* | — | |
| $13,304 | $75,226* | — | $23,656* | 0.31 | |
| $13,630 | $73,292* | $81,593 | $20,750* | 0.28 | |
| $15,510 | $71,798* | $73,089 | $28,750* | 0.40 | |
| National Median | — | $72,746* | — | $24,750* | 0.34 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with construction management graduates
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Baker College, approximately 38% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the median of 3 similar programs in MI. Actual outcomes may vary.