Social Work at Western Michigan University
Master's Degree
Earnings Distribution
How Western Michigan University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Western Michigan University graduates earn $51k, placing them in the 47th percentile of all social work masters 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
Social Work masters's programs at peer institutions in Michigan (12 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Western Michigan University | $50,907 | $52,183 | — | — |
| Spring Arbor University | $56,275 | — | — | — |
| University of Michigan-Ann Arbor | $53,431 | $57,376 | — | — |
| Eastern Michigan University | $52,900 | $57,695 | — | — |
| Ferris State University | $51,796 | $59,534 | — | — |
| Saginaw Valley State University | $51,511 | — | — | — |
| National Median | $51,351 | — | — | — |
Other Social Work Programs in Michigan
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Michigan schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring Arbor University Spring Arbor | $32,580 | $56,275 | — |
| University of Michigan-Ann Arbor Ann Arbor | $17,228 | $53,431 | — |
| Eastern Michigan University Ypsilanti | $15,510 | $52,900 | — |
| Ferris State University Big Rapids | $13,630 | $51,796 | — |
| Saginaw Valley State University University Center | $12,240 | $51,511 | — |
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 Western Michigan University, approximately 25% 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.