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

Precision Metal Working certificate's programs at peer institutions in Michigan (33 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
Michigan Career and Technical Institute$27,566
Ferris State University$68,852$74,137$21,7650.32
Delta College$34,112$36,436
Grand Rapids Community College$34,042$38,509$4,5400.13
Universal Technical Institute-Canton$33,636$11,7900.35
National Median$36,248$9,0000.25

Other Precision Metal Working Programs in Michigan

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Michigan schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
Ferris State University
Big Rapids
$13,630$68,852$21,765
Delta College
University Center
$4,640$34,112
Grand Rapids Community College
Grand Rapids
$4,059$34,042$4,540
Universal Technical Institute-Canton
Canton
$17,252$33,636$11,790

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 Michigan Career and Technical Institute, 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.