Program Analysis
Michigan State University's Civil Engineering program produces graduates earning $72,048/yr — within striking distance of the $69,097 national average for this field.
With a 12.5x return on in-state tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.
The 16% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Civil Engineering career paths face displacement, but others in the field are more insulated.
Loan repayment is a non-issue here — $26,500 in median debt clears quickly against $72,048 in annual earnings.
A #122 ranking among 220 Civil Engineering programs places Michigan State University in the lower half. Price, proximity, and personal fit become the stronger arguments.
A 21% earnings increase from $72,048 to $87,138 over five years is solid — not a moonshot, but evidence of normal career advancement.