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Finance graduates at Purdue University Northwest start their careers with just $8,463 in net costs, creating an extraordinary value proposition in a state where financial services fuel major corporations like Eli Lilly and Cummins. The cost spread across Indiana's finance programs spans nearly $15,000, with public universities consistently delivering the lowest net prices while private institutions push toward $21,000 annually. Indiana State University graduates command the highest starting earnings at $51,794, nearly $10,000 above the University of Southern Indiana's $41,565 average. The state's 21st Century Scholars program helps qualifying students access these programs tuition-free, making finance education accessible across income levels. Purdue's main campus combines moderate costs with an 83.10% graduation rate, while smaller private colleges like Grace College achieve 69.90% completion rates despite higher price points. This range reflects Indiana's dual approach to finance education, serving both cost-conscious students and those seeking specialized private college experiences in a state where manufacturing and healthcare companies require skilled financial professionals.
24
Programs
$8,463 – $38,472
Net Price Range
$50,846
Avg. Program Earnings
63.5%
Avg. Graduation Rate

24 Finance and Financial Management Services Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $8,463 $8,419 44.0% 72.8%
2 $12,188 $9,992 41.1% 92.3%
3 $12,267 $10,110 47.6%
4 $12,621 $10,136 52.0% 94.4%
5 $13,710 $29,982 68.2% 77.5%
6 $13,945 $9,992 83.1% 52.7%
7 $15,898 $10,758 63.3% 69.0%
8 $16,767 $8,216 37.2%
9 $18,406 $30,034 69.9% 84.6%
10 $18,748 $36,136 55.8% 76.1%
11 $19,268 $37,090 44.8% 66.4%
12 $19,726 $33,320 57.2% 99.5%
13 $20,230 $42,676 71.3% 76.3%
14 $20,361 $35,420 60.7% 98.1%
15 $21,583 $46,588 67.0% 94.2%
16 $21,976 $9,576 100.0% 24.4%
17 $22,144 $35,640 49.4% 51.8%
18 $22,762 $37,350 63.4% 92.9%
19 $23,069 $31,168 66.3% 86.7%
20 $23,594 $39,100 60.9% 93.8%
21 $24,327 $39,104 76.6% 74.6%
22 $25,580 $35,600 67.6% 91.9%
23 $27,823 $62,693 96.8% 12.9%
24 $38,472 $45,980 80.2% 82.1%

Frequently Asked Questions

What accounts for the massive cost difference between Purdue Northwest at $8,463 and private colleges charging over $20,000?

Public universities receive state funding that dramatically reduces student costs, while private colleges rely on tuition revenue. Purdue Northwest's in-state tuition of $8,419 keeps total costs low, whereas University of Evansville charges $42,676 in tuition alone. The 21st Century Scholars program can eliminate tuition entirely at public schools. Private colleges often provide more personalized attention and smaller class sizes to justify higher costs.

How do graduation rates compare between affordable and expensive finance programs in Indiana?

Purdue's main campus achieves an 83.10% graduation rate despite moderate $13,945 net costs, proving that affordability doesn't compromise completion rates. Among the cheapest options, Purdue Northwest graduates 44.00% of students while Indiana State reaches 41.10%. Private colleges like Grace College hit 69.90% completion rates but cost $18,406 annually. The data shows no clear correlation between higher prices and better graduation outcomes.

Is the earning potential worth the extra cost at more expensive Indiana finance programs?

Starting salaries vary surprisingly little across price points, ranging from $41,565 to $51,794 regardless of program cost. Indiana State University's graduates earn $51,794 while paying just $12,188 net costs, creating strong return on investment. University of Southern Indiana costs similar amounts but graduates earn $10,000 less annually at $41,565. Valparaiso University charges $21,583 but produces $50,231 earners, making cost-benefit calculations complex.

Does financial aid availability vary significantly across Indiana's finance programs?

Indiana's 21st Century Scholars program covers full tuition at public universities for qualifying low-income students. Private colleges like Huntington University reduce costs from $29,982 sticker price to $13,710 net through institutional aid. Ball State University brings costs down from $10,758 to actual net prices around $15,898 after aid calculations. The largest aid packages appear at private institutions trying to compete with public university pricing.

Where do Indiana finance graduates typically find employment after completing these programs?

Indiana's finance graduates often join major employers like Eli Lilly, Cummins, and Indiana University Health, which require financial analysis and corporate finance skills. The state's manufacturing base creates demand for cost accounting and financial planning professionals. Healthcare systems throughout Indiana need revenue cycle managers and financial analysts to navigate complex reimbursement systems. Regional banks and credit unions also recruit heavily from Indiana's finance programs, particularly in Indianapolis and Fort Wayne markets.

Net price reflects the average cost after grants and scholarships for first-time, full-time students. See our methodology for details.