At $41,945/yr net price, American University graduates earn $77,370/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $43,370/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $41,945 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $167,780 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $77,370/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$43,370/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 3.9 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 78.5% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $22,750 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $21,176/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $18,630/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $23,477/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $34,587/yr |
| $110,001+ | $53,257/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Master | $99,458 | $89,433 |
| Taxation. | Master | $97,907 | |
| Statistics. | Master | $75,706 | |
| Public Administration. | Master | $74,953 | $55,000 |
| Computer Science. | Bachelor | $73,635 | |
| Accounting and Related Services. | Master | $69,338 | |
| Economics. | Master | $69,338 | $46,108 |
| Legal Research and Advanced Professional Studies. | Master | $67,660 | $65,926 |
| Accounting and Related Services. | Bachelor | $66,014 | |
| Communication and Media Studies. | Master | $64,493 | $51,250 |
The Risk Factor
78.5% of students at American University graduate within 6 years. A significant share of students finish, but roughly 22% do not complete their degree.
Analysis
American University delivers solid financial returns despite its hefty price tag, with graduates earning a median $77,370 ten years out. The $41,945 annual net price creates a steep upfront investment, but the 78.5% graduation rate means most students complete their degrees and enter the workforce.
Business Administration stands out as the clear financial winner, generating $99,458 in median earnings that justify even the program's $89,433 debt load. Taxation majors also command strong salaries at $97,907, while Computer Science graduates earn $73,635. Public Administration offers decent returns at $74,953 with more manageable $55,000 debt levels.
The school's Washington DC location drives much of its value proposition. You gain direct access to federal agencies, lobbying firms, and international organizations that heavily recruit AU graduates. This geographic advantage particularly benefits public policy, international relations, and government-focused majors.
Financial aid presents a challenge. Only 12.73% of students receive need-based aid, leaving most families to cover the full cost through loans or savings. The relatively low $22,750 median debt suggests many students come from higher-income families who can afford to minimize borrowing.
American University works best for students targeting DC-area careers in government, policy, or international affairs where the location premium pays dividends. If you plan to work outside the DC metro area or pursue majors not listed among the top earners, the high cost becomes harder to justify. Students needing substantial financial aid should look elsewhere given the limited assistance available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is American University worth the high tuition cost?
American University's $41,945 annual net price is steep for graduates earning $77,370 after 10 years. The school works best for students targeting high-paying programs like business administration ($99,458) or taxation ($97,907), but other majors may struggle to justify the cost.
What are the best paying majors at American University?
Business administration leads at $99,458 annually, followed by taxation at $97,907. These programs offer strong ROI given the school's cost, while other popular majors like public administration ($74,953) and computer science ($73,635) provide more modest returns.
How much debt do American University students graduate with?
The median debt is $22,750, which is manageable compared to many private schools. However, this figure doesn't include parent loans or students who borrowed more than the median, so actual debt loads vary widely.
Does American University provide good financial aid to lower costs?
The $41,945 net price suggests decent financial aid, but this is still expensive for most families. Students should compare aid packages carefully, as the school's Washington DC location drives up both tuition and living costs.