Ethnic & Cultural Studies at University of Michigan-Ann Arbor

Ann Arbor, MI · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies
33 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
34
Optimistic
33
Base Case
24
Pessimistic
Earnings $33,991/yr (5% vs median)
AI Risk Very High (69% exposed)
Job Market Small (8,000 openings/yr)
ROI 8.3x earnings multiple (2.5x out-of-state)
Ranked #32 of 92 Ethnic & Cultural Minority programs Top 50%

Program Analysis

While this degree doesn't offer a direct path to a high-paying first job, you're not just earning a diploma—you're gaining entry into the powerful University of Michigan network. The "Wolverine" brand opens doors nationwide in a way that data tables can't capture. Graduates from this program often find success not in one specific field, but by applying their critical thinking skills to roles in advocacy, non-profits, government, and increasingly, corporate DEI initiatives. The curriculum hones your ability to analyze complex social systems, a skill valued in law, public policy, and human resources. Your challenge will be to translate these academic skills into a compelling narrative for employers. Your key piece of advice: from day one, actively seek internships and network with alumni in fields like consulting or marketing to build a bridge from your academic passion to a professional career.

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Ethnic & Cultural Studies graduates.

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $589K $573K $510K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 8.5x 8.3x 7.4x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 2.5x 2.5x 2.2x
Probability of Field Employment 49% 41% 26%
DegreeOutlook Score 34 33 24

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$68,912
Out-of-state: $232,288 (2.5x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$59,328
14% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$14,802
5.2 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$59,348
75% growth from Year 1

About University of Michigan-Ann Arbor

Admission to University of Michigan-Ann Arbor is competitive, with 18% of applicants accepted, with 33,488 students enrolled in Ann Arbor, MI.

See all programs and financial aid at University of Michigan-Ann Arbor →

Top Career Paths

Area, ethnic, and cultural studies teachers, postsecondary $84,290/yr
Interpreters and translators $59,440/yr
View all 2 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Ethnic & Cultural Studies at Other Schools

Other Majors at University of Michigan-Ann Arbor

Consider the Trade Route?

Trade programs often mean less time in school, lower student debt, and hands-on career paths that tend to be more resilient to AI disruption.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 33/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Ethnic & Cultural Studies at University of Michigan-Ann Arbor?
At 33/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Ethnic & Cultural Studies programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
Should I worry about AI if I study Ethnic & Cultural Studies at University of Michigan-Ann Arbor?
The 69% AI task exposure score is above average. Our model shows this affecting job availability more than salaries — graduates may face stiffer competition for fewer positions.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →