University of Michigan-Ann Arbor vs Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus

Side-by-side comparison based on real salary, cost, and graduation data from the U.S. Department of Education.

Metric
University of Michigan-Ann Arbor
Top program: Computer and Information Sciences, General
99/100
Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus
Top program: Petroleum Engineering
97/100
Starting Salary
$100,643
$80,718
Listed Price
$34,654
$39,694
What You Pay
$13,138
$32,875
What You'd Really Pay
$59,658
$140,610
Typical Debt
$19,500
$25,000
Graduation Rate
93.2%
86.1%
Pays for Itself In
0.8 yrs
2.8 yrs
Salary Boost
+235%
+169%
Ahead After 10 Years
$946,772
$666,570
University of Michigan-Ann Arbor vs Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus Comparison
MetricUniversity of Michigan-Ann ArborPennsylvania State University-Main Campus
Starting Salary$100,643$80,718
Listed Price$34,654$39,694
What You Pay$13,138$32,875
What You'd Really Pay$59,658$140,610
Typical Debt$19,500$25,000
Graduation Rate93.2%86.1%
Pays for Itself In0.8 yrs2.8 yrs
Salary Boost+235%+169%
Ahead After 10 Years$946,772$666,570

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better, University of Michigan-Ann Arbor or Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus?

Based on Value Score, University of Michigan-Ann Arbor scores higher at 99/100 for its top program. Compare all metrics including salary, cost, and graduation rate to decide which is the better fit for your major.

What is the average salary for graduates of University of Michigan-Ann Arbor?

The top-earning program at University of Michigan-Ann Arbor (Computer and Information Sciences, General) has a median salary of $100,643/yr after graduation. Salaries vary significantly by major.

What is the average salary for graduates of Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus?

The top-earning program at Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus (Petroleum Engineering) has a median salary of $80,718/yr after graduation. Salaries vary significantly by major.

How much does University of Michigan-Ann Arbor cost vs Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus?

University of Michigan-Ann Arbor has a net cost of $13,138/yr vs $32,875/yr at Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus. True total cost (including loan interest) is $59,658 vs $140,610.

Data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Comparison shows each school's top-earning bachelor's degree program. Learn about our methodology.