Clinical Laboratory Science at Michigan Technological University

Houghton, MI · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Clinical/Medical Laboratory Science/Research and Allied Professions
44 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
45
Optimistic
44
Base Case
48
Pessimistic
Earnings $38,756/yr (-41% vs median)
AI Risk Moderate (24% exposed)
Job Market Large (79,700 openings/yr)
ROI 8.3x earnings multiple (3.7x out-of-state)
Ranked #97 of 99 Clinical/Medical Laboratory Science/Research programs

Program Analysis

The unique environment of Michigan Tech, situated in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, heavily influences the career trajectory for graduates in Clinical/Medical Laboratory Science. While the university excels in many technical fields, this specific program's outcomes are often shaped by the regional labor market. Local demand for specialized medical laboratory scientists and allied health professionals in the immediate Houghton area is limited, and wages tend to reflect a smaller, more rural economy compared to major metropolitan hubs. This means many graduates either seek roles in lower-paying technician capacities within the region or must relocate to find more competitive opportunities in larger urban centers. The program likely provides a solid foundational education, but the pipeline to higher-paying positions typically requires navigating these geographical and economic realities. When considering this path, research potential employers in your desired post-graduation locations and understand the specific roles and compensation structures available there.

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Clinical Laboratory Science graduates.

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $614K $613K $569K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 8.3x 8.3x 7.7x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 3.7x 3.7x 3.4x
Probability of Field Employment 53% 53% 44%
DegreeOutlook Score 45 44 48

10-Year Earnings Projection

*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$73,568
Out-of-state: $165,360 (3.7x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$62,916
14% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$25,000
7.7 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$63,723
64% growth from Year 1

About Michigan Technological University

Michigan Technological University accepts 88% of applicants — an open-access institution by design, enrolling 5,829 students in Houghton, MI.

See all programs and financial aid at Michigan Technological University →

Top Career Paths

Health specialties teachers, postsecondary $105,620/yr
Surgical technologists $62,830/yr
Health technologists and technicians, all other $48,790/yr
View all 6 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Clinical Laboratory Science at Other Schools

Other Majors at Michigan Technological University

Explore the Trade Alternative

Not every career requires a four-year degree. Trade programs in related fields can offer competitive salaries with a fraction of the student loan burden.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 44/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Clinical Laboratory Science at Michigan Technological University?
At 44/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Clinical Laboratory Science programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
Is Michigan Technological University a good choice for Clinical Laboratory Science despite lower starting pay?
Starting salary is one data point. If Michigan Technological University's tuition is significantly below average, the ROI calculation can still work — lower earnings paired with lower costs can be a reasonable trade.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →