Compare 6 Civil Engineering. programs in Michigan. Average earnings: $73,300.
The highest-earning Civil Engineering program isn't at the most prestigious school. With a $32K earnings gap across 6 programs, the data confirms: program-level factors drive outcomes more than institutional brand.
The data puts University of Michigan-Ann Arbor first, with Civil Engineering graduates earning $85,123 compared to the $73,300 state average. But Michigan State University proves regional publics compete—its graduates earn $78,668 while accepting 84% of applicants versus Michigan's selective 18% rate.
For families, the math changes. Michigan-Ann Arbor offers a 4.3% student burden, but when parent loans are included, Wayne State University leads with a 10.1% family burden—proof that the best choice depends on who's paying.
Highest program earnings: $85,123
Strong outcomes ($78,668) with 84% acceptance
4.3% payment burden | Excellent
10.1% family burden | Good
| Rank | School | Program Earnings | Cohort Size | Student Debt | Student GPS | Parent Debt | Parent GPS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | $85,123 | 40 | $19,500 | Excellent | $30,250 | Good | |
| #2 | $78,668 | 95 | $23,250 | Excellent | $37,401 | Manageable | |
| #3 | Wayne State UniversityPublic | $76,871 | 37 | $21,250 | Excellent | $16,378 | Good |
| #4 | $75,832 | 66 | $24,990 | Excellent | $29,300 | Manageable | |
| #5 | $69,950 | 33 | $26,188 | Excellent | $22,488 | Manageable | |
| #6 | $53,358 | 16 | $27,000 | Manageable | $54,800 | High |
Our program rankings answer: "Which schools have the best outcomes for graduates of this specific major?"
Unlike traditional rankings that measure overall school quality, these rankings focus on program-level outcomes. A school that's #200 overall might have a top-10 nursing program — and that matters if you're studying nursing.
Data based on 2024-2025 Dept of Education reporting standards. Learn about our methodology →
