Wayne State University's published cost of attendance reaches $26,794 annually, including $14,297 in-state tuition, $30,419 out-of-state tuition, $11,762 for room and board, and $1,316 for books and supplies. However, the average student pays significantly less due to financial aid, with net costs averaging $14,773 after aid packages are applied.
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Net prices are averages and may vary. Based on federal data for first-time, full-time students receiving aid.
| Cost Category | Amount |
|---|---|
| Total Cost of Attendance (Sticker Price) | $26,794 |
| Tuition and Fees | $30,419 |
| Room and Board | $11,762 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,316 |
| Average Financial Aid (Grants and Scholarships) | -$12,021 |
| Average Net Price (What Families Pay) | $14,773 |
| Family Income | Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0–30k | $12,337 |
| $30–48k | $12,560 |
| $48–75k | $14,864 |
| $75–110k | $19,189 |
| $110k+ | $21,543 |
Wayne State University's published cost of attendance reaches $26,794 annually, including $14,297 in-state tuition, $30,419 out-of-state tuition, $11,762 for room and board, and $1,316 for books and supplies. However, the average student pays significantly less due to financial aid, with net costs averaging $14,773 after aid packages are applied. This represents financial aid savings of $12,021 on average, reducing the cost burden substantially for enrolled students.
Wayne State University's net price sits $817 above the peer median of $15,590, indicating costs are slightly higher than comparable public research universities. The difference between sticker price and actual costs highlights the importance of financial aid in making Wayne State University accessible to diverse student populations. Michigan residents benefit from in-state tuition rates that are significantly lower than out-of-state charges, though both groups receive need-based aid consideration.
How much students borrow and whether debt is manageable given outcomes.
Debt is well below typical first-year earnings — generally considered very manageable.
Wayne State University graduates carry median debt of $21,250, ranking at the 62nd percentile nationally and indicating above average borrowing levels. Student debt ranges from $6,668 at the 25th percentile to $30,250 at the 75th percentile, showing significant variation in borrowing patterns among graduates.
The debt level exceeds the peer median by $1,250, suggesting Wayne State University students borrow slightly more than comparable institutions, though the difference remains modest. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.40 indicates sustainable borrowing relative to post-graduation income, as graduates earn $53,493 annually while carrying manageable debt burdens.
Parent PLUS borrowers carry median debt of $15,564 with monthly payments of $205, representing additional family borrowing beyond student loans. The combination of student and parent debt suggests families utilize multiple financing strategies to fund Wayne State University education, though total borrowing appears sustainable given earnings outcomes and Detroit's cost of living considerations.
How cost compares to graduate earnings and value added.
Wayne State University delivers solid return on educational investment through earnings beyond expectations despite around-average median earnings. Graduates earn $9,150 more than predicted based on student demographics, ranking at the 84.0th percentile for value-added performance and earning well above average tier designation.
While median earnings of $53,493 rank around the national average, the significant earnings uplift indicates Wayne State University adds substantial value through educational programs and career preparation. Student debt of $21,250 appears sustainable when balanced against earnings growth potential and the institution's track record of serving first-generation and lower-income students successfully.
The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.40 remains within manageable ranges for most career fields, particularly given Wayne State University's strength in higher-earning programs like Artificial Intelligence, International Business, and Health Professions. Students should focus on program-specific outcomes when evaluating investment potential, as earnings vary considerably across Wayne State University's diverse academic portfolio, with top programs delivering exceptional value despite overall institutional averages.
Wayne State University demonstrates strong commitment to need-based financial assistance, with average aid packages reducing costs by $12,021 from the published sticker price. The substantial 43.0% Pell-eligible student enrollment indicates the university effectively serves lower-income Michigan families who qualify for federal need-based grants.
Financial aid targeting appears progressive, with the lowest-income families paying $12,337 compared to $21,543 for highest-income families, creating a meaningful cost differential that supports economic diversity. The net price structure suggests Wayne State University uses both federal and institutional aid to reduce barriers for students from modest economic backgrounds.
Students should complete FAFSA applications early to maximize aid eligibility and work with financial aid offices to understand payment options. The $817 difference above peer median net costs may reflect Michigan's higher education funding structure or institutional aid policies, but remains within reasonable ranges for public research universities.
