Analysis
A specialized insurance degree is relatively uncommon—only 65 schools nationwide offer it—and peer programs suggest steady, if unspectacular, early returns. With estimated first-year earnings around $56,000 and debt near $22,400, graduates from comparable programs face a debt load equal to just 40% of their starting salary. That's manageable by most measures, allowing for comfortable repayment while building experience in a field known for stable demand.
Michigan's insurance job market appears reasonably robust, with the state median slightly above the national figure at $56,000. Ferris State's program likely prepares students for roles in underwriting, claims, or risk management—positions that typically offer clear advancement paths as professionals gain certifications and expertise. The relatively accessible admission profile (81% acceptance rate) suggests this isn't a highly selective program, but in insurance, technical knowledge and licensing often matter more than institutional prestige.
The core question is whether your child needs a specialized bachelor's for insurance careers, since many enter the field with general business degrees or through direct hiring and training. If they're certain about this career path, the estimated debt burden is reasonable and the earnings appear stable. However, given that these figures come from peer programs rather than Ferris State's actual graduates, verify the school's industry connections and internship placement—those practical elements often determine early career success more than the classroom curriculum alone.
Where Ferris State University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all insurance bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Michigan
Insurance bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Michigan (3 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $13,630 | $55,819* | — | $22,394* | — | |
| $33,076 | $56,027* | $63,422 | $24,710* | 0.44 | |
| National Median | — | $55,819* | — | $22,728* | 0.41 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with insurance graduates
Compensation and Benefits Managers
Business Teachers, Postsecondary
Insurance Underwriters
Compensation, Benefits, and Job Analysis Specialists
Claims Adjusters, Examiners, and Investigators
Insurance Appraisers, Auto Damage
Insurance Sales Agents
Appraisers of Personal and Business Property
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 Ferris State University, approximately 34% 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 national median of 20 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.