Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $50,273/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$16,273/yr |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $18,051 |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | Bachelor | $61,020 | $22,750 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Bachelor | $41,406 | $20,834 |
| Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services, Other. | Bachelor | $41,193 | $20,320 |
| Accounting and Related Services. | Bachelor | $41,087 | $22,073 |
| Mathematics. | Bachelor | $40,281 | |
| Special Education and Teaching. | Bachelor | $38,289 | $23,144 |
| Criminal Justice and Corrections. | Bachelor | $38,289 | |
| Human Resources Management and Services. | Bachelor | $37,208 | $22,940 |
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas. | Bachelor | $36,745 | $22,366 |
| Social Sciences, General. | Bachelor | $35,416 |
Analysis
Athens State University delivers solid financial returns for a regional public university, with graduates earning a median $50,273 annually while carrying manageable debt loads of $18,051. Your debt-to-income ratio works out to roughly 36%, which falls within reasonable bounds for most borrowers.
Computer science stands out as the clear financial winner, with graduates earning $61,020 despite slightly higher debt of $22,750. This program gives you access to Alabama's growing tech sector, including Huntsville's aerospace and defense contractors. Business programs cluster around $41,000 in starting earnings, offering steady but unremarkable returns given the debt load.
The biggest risk comes from Athens State's heavy focus on completion degrees for working adults. If you're starting fresh out of high school, you'll find limited campus resources and fewer traditional college experiences that justify the cost. The school works best for students who already have some college credits or professional experience to build upon.
Financial aid reaches only 42% of students, suggesting either a student body with higher family incomes or limited institutional aid availability. Merit scholarships exist but remain competitive given the school's smaller endowment.
You should consider Athens State if you're a working professional in North Alabama seeking to complete your degree affordably, especially in computer science or business. Look elsewhere if you want a traditional college experience or need extensive financial aid. The location limits job prospects compared to Birmingham or Nashville markets, so factor in potential relocation costs after graduation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Athens State University worth the cost?
Athens State University graduates earn $50,273 annually 10 years after graduation with typical debt of $18,051, making it a reasonable value for Alabama students. The relatively low debt burden helps offset below-average earnings compared to national standards.
What are the highest paying majors at Athens State University?
Computer and Information Sciences leads Athens State's earnings at $61,020 annually, while business-related programs cluster around $41,000. Math graduates earn $40,281, showing a clear advantage for technology fields at this school.
How much student debt do Athens State University graduates have?
Athens State University graduates typically leave with $18,051 in debt, which is manageable compared to many four-year schools. This lower debt load makes the school's moderate earnings more financially viable for graduates.
Does Athens State University have good financial aid?
The relatively low median debt of $18,051 suggests Athens State provides adequate financial aid or attracts students who can afford most costs upfront. However, the school's moderate post-graduation earnings mean students should still borrow carefully.