Computer Engineering at University of Michigan-Ann Arbor

Michigan's flagship delivers strong Computer Engineering outcomes, but the state context tells a more nuanced story. With graduates earning $92,501 in their first year and $107,608 by year four, this program significantly outperforms the national median ($78,952) and places in the 95th percentile nationally. Yet among Michigan's 12 Computer Engineering programs, it ranks only in the 60th percentile—trailing Michigan State by about $8,600 in early earnings despite UMich's far more selective admissions (18% vs MSU's higher acceptance rate).

The debt picture is reasonable at $20,500—below both state and national medians—resulting in a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of just 0.22. Graduates can expect strong earnings growth of 16% through year four, which is solid for engineering disciplines. The 18% selectivity and 1473 average SAT suggest you're competing with highly qualified students, which may explain why Michigan State's less selective program produces comparable early-career outcomes in this specific field.

For families paying out-of-state tuition, these numbers merit careful consideration given that Michigan State's Computer Engineering grads start only slightly lower. For in-state students, UMich offers prestige and strong outcomes, though the earnings premium over other Michigan programs is smaller than the admissions profile might suggest. The low debt burden makes either choice financially viable.