Wayne County Community College District vs University of Detroit Mercy: which has better ROI?
The verdict
University of Detroit Mercy has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $60,928 in 2.7 years versus not at all at Wayne County Community College District, on median earnings of $71,030 vs $29,079 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | Wayne County Community College District | University of Detroit Mercy |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $7,656 | $15,232 |
| Total net cost | $15,312 | $60,928 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $29,079 | $71,030 |
| Median debt | $12,062 | $23,250 |
| Payback | — | 2.7 yrs |
| 20-year net return | -$400,932 | $392,472 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
Wayne County Community College District vs University of Detroit Mercy: frequently asked questions
Is Wayne County Community College District or University of Detroit Mercy a better value?
University of Detroit Mercy. It clears its $60,928 net cost in about 2.7 years versus no clear payback at Wayne County Community College District, on median earnings of $71,030 vs $29,079 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, Wayne County Community College District or University of Detroit Mercy?
Wayne County Community College District: $7,656/yr net price after aid versus $15,232/yr at University of Detroit Mercy — a difference of $7,576 a year, or about $45,616 over four years.
Do Wayne County Community College District or University of Detroit Mercy graduates earn more?
University of Detroit Mercy graduates earn a median $71,030 ten years after entry, versus $29,079 at Wayne County Community College District — a $41,951 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.