Human Development, Family Studies, at Baker College

Baker College's Human Development program falls below both national and Michigan benchmarks, ranking in just the 25th percentile nationally—but the debt picture is notably more favorable. At $23,424, graduates carry about 60% more debt than the Michigan median of $15,894, yet they're still only borrowing roughly what they earn in their first year. Compare that to Oakland Community College's $30,486 median earnings, and the gap becomes more troubling.

The 20% earnings growth from year one to year four suggests some career progression, bringing graduates closer to the state median of $24,048. However, starting at $22,557 means these graduates begin well behind peers at comparable Michigan programs. For context, this program ranks at the 40th percentile statewide—slightly below median but not catastrophically so. The debt sits in the 9th percentile nationally, meaning 91% of similar programs carry higher debt loads, which provides some cushion despite the elevated cost compared to state norms.

The fundamental challenge here is straightforward: you're paying private college prices (in debt) for below-average outcomes in a field where community colleges consistently deliver better results. Unless Baker offers specific advantages—location, scheduling flexibility, or support services—that justify the additional $7,500 in debt compared to the state median, Michigan families should seriously consider the community college alternatives that dominate the top performers list.