Wayne State University

What are the graduation rates for students at Wayne State University?

Wayne State University has an overall graduation rate of 57%, placing it around the average among comparable institutions. Male students graduate at a slightly lower rate of 53%, while female students have a marginally higher graduation rate of 59%. These figures indicate a modest gender gap in completion rates, with women graduating at a higher frequency.

The university's retention rate stands at 82%, which is considered above average and ranks in the top 35% of similar colleges. This suggests that most students persist beyond their first year of study, an important factor for prospective students evaluating the likelihood of academic continuity.

Looking at specific timeframes, the four-year graduation rate is 33%, which is below average and falls into the bottom 35% percentile. However, the six-year graduation rate increases to 57%, reflecting that a significant number of students complete their degrees within a longer timeframe, aligning again with the average range nationally.

What is the earning potential for graduates at Wayne State University?

Graduates from Wayne State University demonstrate a wide range of earning potentials depending on their chosen fields of study. Among the highest earners are those who pursued degrees in technical and engineering disciplines. For example, graduates with a degree in Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering reported average earnings of $76,864, while those in Mechanical Engineering earned approximately $71,849. Similarly, graduates in Computer and Information Sciences have median salaries around $73,198, reflecting the strong demand for professionals in technology sectors.

Engineering-related technology degrees also provide competitive compensation. Mechanical Engineering Related Technologies/Technicians earn about $72,343, and Electrical Engineering Technologies/Technicians report median salaries of $70,278, indicating lucrative opportunities within applied technical fields.

Allied health programs at the university occupy a solid middle ground in salary terms. Those graduating from Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services can expect earnings near $78,723, which ranks among the highest across all measured disciplines. Registered Nursing and clinical roles command respectable salaries averaging $63,013, with Clinical/Medical Laboratory Science graduates earning roughly $56,638.

Degrees in business-related areas also offer competitive wages. Graduates specializing in Management Information Systems and Services earn around $55,142, while those in Finance and Financial Management Services achieve salaries near $52,667. International Business graduates average $53,860, and Accounting majors report earnings in the neighborhood of $49,303.

Among humanities and social sciences, socioeconomic degrees tend to offer more modest pay. Sociology graduates earn an average of $36,556, Public Relations and Applied Communication majors receive about $35,595, and Criminal Justice graduates report $34,519. Those studying Political Science and Government earn approximately $32,349, while Journalism graduates have a median income near $32,704.

Fields in education and communication show varied earning outcomes. Special Education and Teaching majors earn about $40,585, and Teacher Education with specific methods average $36,314. Communication and Media Studies graduates receive around $40,710, and Communication Disorders Sciences majors earn roughly $27,898.

Other areas demonstrate lower median salaries but potentially fit different career aspirations. For instance, Drama/Theatre Arts graduates earn around $20,218, while apparel-focused degrees yield earnings near $22,351. Biological sciences show earnings close to $23,098, with Psychology majors earning around $27,699.