Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing at University of Michigan-Flint
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
University of Michigan-Flint's nursing program starts strong with $80,000+ earnings right after graduation—well above both national and Michigan medians—but graduates see their income drop by 5% over four years, an unusual pattern that warrants attention. While most nursing programs show steady income growth, this program's earnings trajectory moves in the opposite direction, potentially reflecting local market dynamics in the Flint area.
The financial fundamentals remain solid despite this earnings dip. With median debt of just $39,231 (ranking in the 5th percentile nationally for low debt), graduates face manageable loan payments even if their income plateaus. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.49 means typical monthly loan payments should consume a reasonable portion of take-home pay. Among Michigan's 28 nursing programs, this ranks solidly in the 60th percentile for earnings, placing it in the middle tier of state options.
For anxious parents, this program offers a relatively safe investment with good immediate earning potential and low debt burden. The income decline over time is concerning but may reflect the specific healthcare job market in Flint rather than program quality issues. Graduates still earn competitively compared to state peers, and the low debt load provides financial flexibility if career pivots become necessary.
Where University of Michigan-Flint Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all registered nursing, nursing administration, nursing research and clinical nursing bachelors's programs nationally
Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.
Earnings Distribution
How University of Michigan-Flint graduates compare to all programs nationally
University of Michigan-Flint graduates earn $80k, placing them in the 71th percentile of all registered nursing, nursing administration, nursing research and clinical nursing bachelors programs nationally.
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.
Compare to Similar Programs in Michigan
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Michigan (28 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Michigan-Flint | $80,029 | $75,731 | $39,231 | 0.49 |
| Chamberlain University-Michigan | $83,188 | $81,995 | $39,146 | 0.47 |
| Alma College | $78,690 | — | — | — |
| Spring Arbor University | $77,680 | $74,629 | $29,748 | 0.38 |
| Siena Heights University | $77,581 | $68,739 | $27,000 | 0.35 |
| Saginaw Valley State University | $76,244 | $67,509 | $28,000 | 0.37 |
| National Median | $74,888 | — | $27,000 | 0.36 |
Other Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing Programs in Michigan
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Michigan schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chamberlain University-Michigan Troy | $19,686 | $83,188 | $39,146 |
| Alma College Alma | $47,430 | $78,690 | — |
| Spring Arbor University Spring Arbor | $32,580 | $77,680 | $29,748 |
| Siena Heights University Adrian | $29,778 | $77,581 | $27,000 |
| Saginaw Valley State University University Center | $12,240 | $76,244 | $28,000 |
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-Flint, approximately 35% 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.
Sample Size: Based on 384 graduates with reported earnings and 452 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.