Western Michigan University

What are the graduation rates for students at Western Michigan University?

Western Michigan University reports a six-year graduation rate of 58%, placing it near the median range nationally and indicating that just over half of enrolled students complete their degrees within this timeframe. The four-year graduation rate is notably lower, at 29%, which ranks in the lower quartile compared to other institutions, suggesting that many students require additional time beyond four years to finish their studies.

Gender differences in graduation rates are apparent, with women graduating at a higher rate of 62% compared to 53% for men, both figures falling into an average performance category but showing a modest advantage for female students. The overall retention rate stands at 80%, indicating that a significant majority of students continue their studies after the first year, a metric that ranks somewhat above average nationally.

This data provides prospective students with insight into the likelihood of completing their degree programs within typical timeframes at Western Michigan University, along with a snapshot of persistence during the critical first year. However, detailed graduation rates by specific programs or majors are not provided.

What is the earning potential for graduates at Western Michigan University?

Graduates from Western Michigan University have diverse earning potentials that vary significantly across different fields of study. Those who studied Computer Science exhibit some of the highest average earnings, with a notable annual income of $66,118. Similarly, graduates in Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering also enjoy competitive salaries, ranging from approximately $67,557 to $70,069.

Engineering-related fields generally offer strong earnings, with Industrial Engineering students earning around $69,454, and Civil Engineering graduates making about $63,325. Those specializing in Drafting/Design Engineering Technologies and Industrial Production Technologies report solid salaries as well, with earnings near $68,647 and $63,559 respectively.

In the health sector, Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research, and Clinical Nursing graduates have an average income of $62,429, reflecting the lucrative nature of this field. Other health-related degrees such as Health and Medical Administrative Services provide earnings around $32,204, showing a moderate financial outcome in this sector.

Business-related degrees also offer respectable salaries, with Business Administration, Management and Operations graduates earning about $49,945 and Marketing graduates earning $46,518. Accounting and Financial Management fields earn in the $43,000 to $44,000 range, demonstrating steady returns in these disciplines.

Communications and media studies show varied earning potential, with Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication graduates earning approximately $35,894, while Communication and Media Studies graduates earn slightly less at $31,707. In social sciences, Criminal Justice and Corrections graduates earn around $33,123, and Social Work graduates have an average of $33,334.

Other notable areas include Aerospace, Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering, where earnings stand near $59,143, and Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies at $51,618. Meanwhile, degrees in International/Global Studies and Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies offer more modest earnings around $32,250 and $32,776 respectively.

On the lower end of the spectrum, graduates from fields such as English Language and Literature, General, and Sociology earn approximately $24,695 and $26,690 respectively, while those in Specialized Sales, Merchandising, and Marketing Operations earn around $27,959. Degrees in areas like Dance and Music report earnings near $24,911 and $20,324, reflecting more modest financial returns.