Analysis
The numbers here suggest solid value, though they're drawn from national peer programs rather than UM-Dearborn's own graduate outcomes. An estimated $89,651 in first-year earnings represents the median for mathematics and computer science bachelor's programs nationwide—a strong starting salary that reflects healthy demand for technical skills. The estimated $24,000 debt load translates to a 0.27 debt-to-earnings ratio, well within the threshold that financial advisors consider manageable for STEM fields.
What matters most is whether UM-Dearborn can deliver outcomes comparable to those peer programs. The university serves a predominantly local, working-class population (44% receive Pell grants), and its dual focus on mathematics and computer science should position graduates for Michigan's growing tech sector, including automotive software and manufacturing automation roles. The interdisciplinary approach can be valuable, but it's less common than standalone CS degrees, which typically have clearer hiring pathways.
The practical question is execution: does this program provide the hands-on experience, internship connections, and technical depth that employers expect? Similar programs nationwide produce these estimated outcomes, but without UM-Dearborn's specific data, you'll want to dig into placement rates, employer partnerships, and curriculum rigor. If the program delivers on technical fundamentals and regional connections, the projected debt-to-earnings picture looks reasonable. If it underperforms those national benchmarks, the investment becomes shakier.
Where University of Michigan-Dearborn Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all mathematics and computer science bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs Nationally
Mathematics and Computer Science bachelors's programs at top institutions nationally
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 University of Michigan-DearbornDearborn | $14,944 | $89,651* | — | $24,082* | — |
 Harvey Mudd CollegeClaremont | $66,255 | $166,573* | — | $23,000* | 0.14 |
 Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyCambridge | $60,156 | $126,153* | — | —* | — |
 University of Illinois Urbana-ChampaignChampaign | $16,004 | $109,843* | — | $23,350* | 0.21 |
 Santa Clara UniversitySanta Clara | $59,241 | $91,851* | — | $21,500* | 0.23 |
 University of California-San DiegoLa Jolla | $15,265 | $89,651* | — | $18,887* | 0.21 |
| National Median | — | $89,651* | — | $23,175* | 0.26 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with mathematics and computer science graduates
Computer and Information Systems Managers
Natural Sciences Managers
Clinical Research Coordinators
Water Resource Specialists
Software Developers
Data Scientists
Business Intelligence Analysts
Clinical Data Managers
Mathematicians
Computer Science Teachers, Postsecondary
Mathematical Science Teachers, Postsecondary
Computer Occupations, All Other
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At University of Michigan-Dearborn, approximately 44% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the national median of 9 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.