Median Earnings (1yr)
$66,149
61st percentile (60th in MI)
Median Debt
$24,250
4% above national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.37
Manageable
Sample Size
31
Adequate data

Analysis

Central Michigan's Management Sciences program delivers solid returns that outperform most Michigan schools and the national median. First-year earnings of $66,149 put graduates about $2,400 above the state median and $4,000 above the national average—ranking in the 60th percentile among Michigan programs. Only Oakland and Michigan State edge it out among in-state options, and both by relatively small margins. The $24,250 debt load sits right at the state average, giving graduates a manageable 0.37 debt-to-earnings ratio that means roughly four months of gross salary to cover total borrowing.

The 13% earnings bump from year one to year four suggests these quantitative skills translate into career progression, though the growth is modest rather than explosive. For families weighing Central Michigan's accessible 91% admission rate against program outcomes, this represents a practical path into analytical business roles without the pressure of ultra-competitive admissions. You're essentially getting top-tier Michigan results at a school where admission is nearly guaranteed.

The moderate sample size means individual circumstances could vary, but the overall picture is straightforward: competitive earnings, reasonable debt, and outcomes that hold their own against flagship universities. For Michigan families, this is a strong in-state option that delivers quantitative business skills with a clear financial payoff.

Where Central Michigan University Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all management sciences and quantitative methods bachelors's programs nationally

Central Michigan UniversityOther management sciences and quantitative methods programs

Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.

Earnings Distribution

How Central Michigan University graduates compare to all programs nationally

Central Michigan University graduates earn $66k, placing them in the 61th percentile of all management sciences and quantitative methods bachelors programs nationally.

Earnings Over Time

How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation

Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.

Compare to Similar Programs in Michigan

Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Michigan (18 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
Central Michigan University$66,149$75,013$24,2500.37
Oakland University$69,446
Michigan State University$69,443$74,432$23,2500.33
University of Michigan-Dearborn$61,297$25,5000.42
Northwood University$54,298
Grand Valley State University$46,886$56,527$26,0000.55
National Median$62,069$23,2500.37

Other Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods Programs in Michigan

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Michigan schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
Oakland University
Rochester Hills
$14,694$69,446
Michigan State University
East Lansing
$15,988$69,443$23,250
University of Michigan-Dearborn
Dearborn
$14,944$61,297$25,500
Northwood University
Midland
$33,000$54,298
Grand Valley State University
Allendale
$14,628$46,886$26,000

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 Central Michigan University, approximately 31% 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.

Sample Size: Based on 31 graduates with reported earnings and 27 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.