Henry Ford College vs University of Michigan-Dearborn: which has better ROI?
The verdict
University of Michigan-Dearborn has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $37,968 in 3.4 years versus not at all at Henry Ford College, on median earnings of $59,649 vs $34,795 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | Henry Ford College | University of Michigan-Dearborn |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $660 | $9,492 |
| Total net cost | $2,640 | $37,968 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $34,795 | $59,649 |
| Median debt | $14,250 | $22,500 |
| Payback | — | 3.4 yrs |
| 20-year net return | -$273,940 | $187,812 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
Henry Ford College vs University of Michigan-Dearborn: frequently asked questions
Is Henry Ford College or University of Michigan-Dearborn a better value?
University of Michigan-Dearborn. It clears its $37,968 net cost in about 3.4 years versus no clear payback at Henry Ford College, on median earnings of $59,649 vs $34,795 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, Henry Ford College or University of Michigan-Dearborn?
Henry Ford College: $660/yr net price after aid versus $9,492/yr at University of Michigan-Dearborn — a difference of $8,832 a year, or about $35,328 over four years.
Do Henry Ford College or University of Michigan-Dearborn graduates earn more?
University of Michigan-Dearborn graduates earn a median $59,649 ten years after entry, versus $34,795 at Henry Ford College — a $24,854 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.