Design and Applied Arts at University of Michigan-Flint

The numbers here raise serious concerns, but the sample size demands caution. With fewer than 30 graduates tracked, these figures could swing dramatically with just a few data points—but as they stand, this program ranks in the bottom 10% both nationally and among Michigan's 20 design programs. First-year earnings of $18,339 represent less than full-time minimum wage work, and even after the impressive 105% growth over four years, graduates still earn about $37,615—below what peers from Western Michigan or Eastern Michigan achieve right out of the gate.

The $30,695 in debt compounds the problem, particularly when measured against that difficult first year where graduates earn barely enough to cover basic expenses, let alone loan payments. Among Michigan options, Central Michigan State, Michigan State, and several others deliver significantly better outcomes at similar or lower debt levels. The gap isn't trivial—we're talking about $15,000-20,000 more in annual earnings at some peer programs.

Given the small sample, these results might not be representative, but they're the only concrete data available. If your child is set on design at UM-Flint, request placement data directly from the program and talk to recent graduates about their employment outcomes. Otherwise, the state's stronger-performing programs offer more predictable paths to financial stability in this already challenging field.