While Wayne State University’s enrollment remains strong, enrollment at other Michigan colleges and universities declined 14% between 2018 and 2022, according to the Detroit Regional Chamber Foundation’s 2024 State of Education and Talent report. 

Surveys indicate this enrollment decline is driven largely by concerns over the cost and value of higher education. Wayne State is committed to the prosperity of our community, undergirding our responsibility to dispel these misconceptions and highlight the enduring benefits of earning a degree from Michigan’s only urban, top-tier public research university. 

Making college more affordable 

With the complexity of the admission process, many students and families overestimate the cost of a college education — especially at Wayne State. First, Wayne State’s tuition costs are the lowest among Michigan’s top-tier, nationally ranked universities. Thanks to robust financial aid programs and state and federal support, 6 out of every 10 incoming students pay no tuition or standard fees — at all. Sixteen percent of incoming students pay less than half of their tuition expenses out-of-pocket, and 77% of all students receive some form of financial aid. 

“Wayne State is truly a university of opportunity. Earning a degree transforms lives, creates generational change, and fuels economic growth and innovation,” said Dr. Kimberly Andrews Espy, Wayne State’s president. “Wayne State has invested significant resources to ensure that cost is not a barrier and everyone with the drive to earn a degree can achieve their dreams for a bright future.” 

A clear path to success 

Wayne State provides nearly $338 million annually in scholarships, grants, loans and work-study programs. Students should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as early as possible to secure the best financial aid package. 

“A Wayne State education is within reach for everyone, and filing the FAFSA is the first step,” said Charles Cotton, vice provost for strategic enrollment. “Financial aid can be a game-changer, particularly for first-generation and low-income students. We offer a wide range of grants, scholarships and tuition-free programs to help students afford college, often without taking on loans.” 

Wayne State’s financial aid programs include: 

• Heart of Detroit Tuition Pledge – Covers full tuition for graduates of Detroit high schools and Detroit residents earning a high school diploma. 

• Wayne State Guarantee – Covers full tuition for Michigan residents who are eligible for the Federal Pell Grant and is now expanded to support more students with families of an annual income of $80,000 or less and assets totaling $50,000 or less.  

• Warrior Way Back Program – Helps former students return and complete their degrees by offering institutional debt forgiveness up to $4,000. 

• Transfer and merit-based scholarships – Providing additional pathways to affordability. 

A degree that pays off 

Wayne State invests heavily in affordable accessibility because we know that a college degree creates long-term benefits for students and their families. And the results speak for themselves. 

Recognized as a top 100 public university by U.S. News & World Report, Wayne State is nationally ranked for social mobility, delivers a strong return on investment and advances economic prosperity for students, particularly those with the greatest financial need. Our College to Career initiative ensures that students graduate career ready, equipped with the knowledge and competencies for a thriving future. 

A degree doesn’t just enhance career opportunities — it also increases lifetime earnings. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, college graduates experience higher job security and better health outcomes. Additionally, the Association of Public & Land-grant Universities estimates that bachelor’s degree holders earn an average of $1.2 million more over their lifetime than those with only a high school diploma. In Michigan, bachelor’s degree holders earn $33,000 more annually just five years after graduation than those without. 

“When you consider the affordability of a Wayne State degree and the career opportunities it unlocks, the value of higher education is undeniable,” said Laurie Lauzon Clabo, Ph.D., provost and executive vice president of academic affairs. “Our holistic approach ensures graduates leave not only with a degree from a top-tier research institution but also with broader, marketable competencies like problem solving, critical and creative thinking, collaboration, communication and leadership.”  

Take the Next Step 

Estimate your costs and explore Wayne State’s financial aid programs through the Office of Student Financial Aid.