Mechanical Engineering at University of Michigan-Dearborn

University of Michigan-Dearborn's mechanical engineering program sits in an interesting position: graduates start earning slightly below Michigan's state median but experience stronger-than-average salary growth. First-year graduates earn $70,688, putting them in the 40th percentile among Michigan's 17 mechanical engineering programs—notably behind Michigan-Ann Arbor ($82,823) and even regional competitors like Oakland University ($78,213). However, by year four, earnings jump to $90,069, representing 27% growth that outpaces typical career trajectories for this major.

The debt picture provides some relief to the earnings gap. At $23,950, graduates carry about $3,000 less debt than the state median and $800 less than the national median. This creates a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.34, meaning the typical graduate owes just over four months of their starting salary. For families weighing Michigan's regional campuses, this represents a practical tradeoff: lower upfront costs and minimal debt, but a starting salary that trails other Michigan engineering schools by roughly 10-15%.

The key question is whether the lower entry point matters long-term. The strong mid-career growth suggests these graduates catch up over time, likely benefiting from Metro Detroit's concentration of automotive and manufacturing employers. For families prioritizing debt minimization while staying in-state, UM-Dearborn delivers solid value. Those willing to take on slightly more debt might compare outcomes at Michigan Tech or Michigan State, which command higher starting salaries in exchange for that investment.