Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies at Northern Michigan University

Northern Michigan University's writing program shows concerning first-year outcomes—$21,696 falls well below both the national median ($28,418) and Michigan's state median ($24,195). While it sits at the 40th percentile statewide, that's little comfort when the top programs in Michigan like Oakland University ($34,464) and Michigan State ($33,401) demonstrate that writing graduates can earn substantially more. The debt load of $24,250 creates a challenging ratio of 1.12 against that first-year income, meaning graduates owe more than they'll earn in their first year.

The silver lining is genuine earnings growth—37% by year four brings graduates to $29,758, finally reaching the national median. This suggests the degree opens doors that take time to walk through, perhaps as graduates build portfolios or transition into better-paying roles. However, those early years of financial strain matter, especially for the 27% of students from Pell-eligible families who likely can't rely on parental support during that period.

The small sample size (under 30 graduates) makes these numbers less reliable, but they align with a broader reality: writing degrees from regional universities often struggle with initial employment outcomes. If your child is set on this path, consider whether they can manage tight finances early on or have a clear plan for leveraging the degree into specific career fields where writing skills command premium pay.