Precision Metal Working at Universal Technical Institute-Canton

Universal Technical Institute-Canton's metal working certificate delivers a challenging value proposition for a trade program. First-year graduates earn $33,636—below both the national median ($36,248) and Michigan's median ($34,077) for this credential. This lands the program in the 40th percentile among Michigan metal working programs, meaning six out of ten alternatives in the state produce better outcomes. The gap becomes stark when comparing to top Michigan programs like Ferris State, where graduates earn more than double.

The silver lining is the debt picture: at $11,790, it's still manageable with a 0.35 debt-to-earnings ratio, meaning graduates owe roughly four months of income. That's better than many four-year degrees. However, within this specific field nationally, the debt sits in only the 13th percentile—meaning 87% of similar programs saddle students with less debt. When you're earning below-average wages, even moderate debt matters more.

The fundamental concern here is opportunity cost. With 33 metal working programs across Michigan, and several community colleges producing similar or better earnings at comparable or lower cost, this program doesn't stand out as the smart in-state choice. For parents financing this education, Delta College or Grand Rapids Community College would deliver similar first-year earnings while keeping your investment focused on proven local alternatives.