Architectural Sciences and Technology at University of Detroit Mercy

In Michigan's architecture field, where specific program outcomes remain limited, this bachelor's degree carries an estimated debt burden of $31,000—higher than the national median for similar programs. That positions graduates with a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.63, meaning they'd owe roughly eight months of their first year's salary. While comparable programs nationally suggest first-year earnings around $49,000, the lack of reported data from Michigan's four architecture programs means parents are navigating with limited visibility into how this particular degree performs in the state's market.

The financial picture suggested by peer programs nationwide shows a manageable but not impressive trajectory. Architecture-adjacent fields often reward persistence—earnings can grow significantly for those who advance toward licensure or specialized roles—but the estimated starting point here sits squarely at the national median. For a field where credentials and practical experience matter enormously, the University of Detroit Mercy's location in a major metro area could provide internship and networking advantages that aren't captured in these estimates.

Given the uncertainty in these figures, parents should verify whether recent graduates are actually finding work in Michigan's architecture sector at these salary levels. The estimated numbers suggest a workable financial outcome, but the suppressed data signals a small graduate cohort, which could mean either a boutique program with strong placement or insufficient track record to judge reliably.