Mathematics at University of Michigan-Dearborn

Similar mathematics programs across Michigan suggest first-year earnings around $48,000—nearly identical to the national median for bachelor's degrees in this field. With estimated debt of $25,125, graduates from comparable programs would carry about half a year's salary in loans, a manageable ratio that falls within reasonable territory for a STEM degree. The challenge is that UM-Dearborn serves a population where 44% receive Pell grants, meaning many families have limited financial cushion to absorb even moderate debt loads.

The stark reality is that UM-Dearborn's sister campus in Ann Arbor produces mathematics graduates earning $80,676 in their first year—nearly 70% more than what peer programs at Dearborn suggest. Even Michigan State matches these estimated figures. This isn't a reflection on program quality; mathematics degrees from regional campuses simply don't command the same starting salaries as flagship universities, likely due to different recruiting pipelines and geographic constraints. For a family weighing options, that $33,000 difference in first-year earnings compounds significantly over a career.

Given the uncertainty in these estimates and the substantial earnings gap with nearby alternatives, families should request actual placement data directly from UM-Dearborn's math department. If your child has the academic profile for Ann Arbor (this campus admits 59% versus Ann Arbor's 18%), the earnings difference likely justifies the additional selectivity challenge. If Dearborn is the realistic option, the estimated debt-to-earnings picture is workable—just don't expect flagship-level outcomes from a regional campus.