Analysis
Michigan Tech's mathematics and computer science program appears positioned to deliver strong returns based on what peer programs nationally produce. With estimated first-year earnings around $90,000 against roughly $24,000 in debt, graduates from similar programs typically see a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.27—meaning they earn more than three dollars for every dollar borrowed. This ratio suggests manageable debt loads relative to income potential in a field where technical skills command premium salaries.
The challenge here is uncertainty. Because Michigan Tech's graduate cohort was too small for the Department of Education to publish outcomes, these figures come from the national median of comparable mathematics and computer science bachelor's programs. While that national benchmark is calculated from 93 programs across the country, it can't capture what makes Michigan Tech's specific curriculum, industry connections, or Upper Peninsula location unique. The school's 88% admission rate and solid SAT profile suggest it's accessible but selective enough to maintain standards, though only 18% of students receive Pell grants, indicating a largely non-low-income student body.
For parents, the estimated numbers point toward a financially sound investment if your child thrives in rigorous STEM coursework. The debt load sits just above the national median for this field, while estimated earnings align with typical outcomes. Just understand you're betting on Michigan Tech's ability to match what its peer institutions deliver—a reasonable assumption for an established technical university, but not a guarantee backed by this school's actual graduate data.
Where Michigan Technological University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all mathematics and computer science bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs Nationally
Mathematics and Computer Science bachelors's programs at top institutions nationally
Scroll to see more →
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Michigan Technological UniversityHoughton | $18,392 | $89,651* | — | $24,082* | — |
 Harvey Mudd CollegeClaremont | $66,255 | $166,573* | — | $23,000* | 0.14 |
 Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyCambridge | $60,156 | $126,153* | — | —* | — |
 University of Illinois Urbana-ChampaignChampaign | $16,004 | $109,843* | — | $23,350* | 0.21 |
 Santa Clara UniversitySanta Clara | $59,241 | $91,851* | — | $21,500* | 0.23 |
 University of California-San DiegoLa Jolla | $15,265 | $89,651* | — | $18,887* | 0.21 |
| National Median | — | $89,651* | — | $23,175* | 0.26 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with mathematics and computer science graduates
Computer and Information Systems Managers
Natural Sciences Managers
Clinical Research Coordinators
Water Resource Specialists
Software Developers
Data Scientists
Business Intelligence Analysts
Clinical Data Managers
Mathematicians
Computer Science Teachers, Postsecondary
Mathematical Science Teachers, Postsecondary
Computer Occupations, All Other
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 Technological University, approximately 18% 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 9 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.