University of Michigan-Ann Arbor vs Wayne State University: which has better ROI?
The verdict
University of Michigan-Ann Arbor has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $52,552 in 1.5 years versus 9.9 years at Wayne State University, on median earnings of $83,648 vs $53,493 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | University of Michigan-Ann Arbor | Wayne State University |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $13,138 | $12,766 |
| Total net cost | $52,552 | $51,064 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $83,648 | $53,493 |
| Median debt | $19,500 | $21,250 |
| Payback | 1.5 yrs | 9.9 yrs |
| 20-year net return | $653,208 | $51,596 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.