Business Administration, Management and Operations at University of Michigan-Ann Arbor

Michigan's business program delivers exceptional returns that justify its competitive admission standards. With first-year earnings of $93,674—nearly double the national median of $45,703 and 85% higher than Michigan's state median—this program ranks in the 95th percentile both nationally and statewide. Even compared to other top Michigan business schools, it significantly outperforms Michigan State ($71,253) and other respected programs.

The debt picture adds to the appeal: at $19,000, graduates carry substantially less debt than typical business majors nationally ($26,000) or in Michigan ($27,000). This creates an outstanding debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.20, meaning graduates earn back their entire debt load in just 10 weeks of work. The robust sample size of 100+ graduates makes these numbers reliable, not statistical flukes.

The 24% earnings growth from year one to four ($116,095) demonstrates the program's long-term value, though the high debt percentile ranking suggests this low debt figure is somewhat unusual compared to similar high-performing programs. For families who can navigate the 18% admission rate, this program offers one of the strongest financial returns available in business education, combining Michigan's reasonable in-state tuition with elite-level career outcomes.