Wayne State University vs Wayne County Community College District: which has better ROI?
The verdict
Wayne State University has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $51,064 in 9.9 years versus not at all at Wayne County Community College District, on median earnings of $53,493 vs $29,079 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | Wayne State University | Wayne County Community College District |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $12,766 | $7,656 |
| Total net cost | $51,064 | $15,312 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $53,493 | $29,079 |
| Median debt | $21,250 | $12,062 |
| Payback | 9.9 yrs | — |
| 20-year net return | $51,596 | -$400,932 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
Wayne State University vs Wayne County Community College District: frequently asked questions
Is Wayne State University or Wayne County Community College District a better value?
Wayne State University. It clears its $51,064 net cost in about 9.9 years versus no clear payback at Wayne County Community College District, on median earnings of $53,493 vs $29,079 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, Wayne State University or Wayne County Community College District?
Wayne County Community College District: $7,656/yr net price after aid versus $12,766/yr at Wayne State University — a difference of $5,110 a year, or about $35,752 over four years.
Do Wayne State University or Wayne County Community College District graduates earn more?
Wayne State University graduates earn a median $53,493 ten years after entry, versus $29,079 at Wayne County Community College District — a $24,414 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.