Analysis
Baker College's engineering program carries an estimated $26,000 in debt—roughly on par with other private colleges offering this degree—while comparable Michigan programs suggest first-year earnings around $80,000. That debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.32 means graduates would owe about four months of their first year's salary, a manageable threshold for an engineering credential.
What's instructive here is how the estimated earnings align with Michigan's stronger programs. The $80,000 figure matches what Grand Valley State and Lawrence Tech graduates actually earn, putting Baker College in the middle tier of the state's engineering schools despite its 88% admission rate. Nationally, engineering programs at this level typically produce earnings near $77,710, so Michigan's tech sector appears to lift all boats somewhat. For a student choosing between Michigan engineering programs based primarily on employability, the debt load becomes the differentiator—and Baker's estimated $26,000 compares favorably to Michigan's $26,500 median.
The caveat is that these figures come from peer institutions, not Baker's own graduates in this specific program. If you're considering this path, verify Baker's engineering curriculum matches industry needs—accreditation, co-op opportunities, and employer partnerships matter as much as degree pedigree. For a student who needs flexible scheduling or prefers Baker's location, the financial picture suggests reasonable value if those estimated outcomes hold true.
Where Baker College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all electrical, electronics and communications engineering bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Michigan
Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Michigan (16 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $12,810 | $80,031* | — | $26,000* | — | |
| $17,228 | $87,606* | $97,459 | $18,667* | 0.21 | |
| $46,380 | $86,360* | $88,785 | $30,080* | 0.35 | |
| $15,988 | $83,874* | $93,400 | $22,500* | 0.27 | |
| $14,628 | $80,732* | — | $29,172* | 0.36 | |
| $41,872 | $80,671* | — | —* | — | |
| National Median | — | $77,710* | — | $24,989* | 0.32 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with electrical, electronics and communications engineering graduates
Architectural and Engineering Managers
Biofuels/Biodiesel Technology and Product Development Managers
Computer Hardware Engineers
Aerospace Engineers
Electrical Engineers
Electronics Engineers, Except Computer
Radio Frequency Identification Device Specialists
Engineering Teachers, Postsecondary
Engineers, All Other
Energy Engineers, Except Wind and Solar
Mechatronics Engineers
Microsystems Engineers
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 12 similar programs in MI. Actual outcomes may vary.