At $24,723/yr net price, Augustana University graduates earn $59,217/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $25,217/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $24,723 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $98,892 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $59,217/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$25,217/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 3.9 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 75.6% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $25,000 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $20,552/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $18,948/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $22,479/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $26,689/yr |
| $110,001+ | $26,388/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Bachelor | $57,724 | $25,000 |
| Education, General. | Master | $48,883 | $15,110 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Bachelor | $44,666 | $24,250 |
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas. | Bachelor | $43,426 | |
| Special Education and Teaching. | Bachelor | $39,009 | |
| Health and Physical Education/Fitness. | Bachelor | $39,009 | $24,190 |
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. | Bachelor | $37,928 | $25,550 |
| History. | Bachelor | $36,848 | |
| Business/Corporate Communications. | Bachelor | $35,060 | |
| American Sign Language. | Bachelor | $33,993 |
The Risk Factor
75.6% of students at Augustana University graduate within 6 years. A significant share of students finish, but roughly 24% do not complete their degree.
Analysis
Augustana University delivers solid but unspectacular returns, with graduates earning a median $59,217 after ten years against typical debt loads of $25,000. The numbers work, but you won't get rich.
Nursing stands out as the clear financial winner, generating nearly $58,000 annually with the same debt burden as other programs. If you can handle the coursework, nursing provides the strongest return on investment at Augustana. Education majors face a tougher financial reality, with general education graduates earning under $49,000 and specialized teaching fields dipping into the low $40,000s and $30,000s. These salaries strain loan repayment in South Dakota's modest cost environment.
The school's 75% graduation rate creates significant financial risk. One in four students who start at Augustana never finish, often carrying debt without the degree needed to service it. Your odds improve if you target high-retention programs like nursing or avoid academically challenging majors that don't align with your strengths.
Augustana makes financial sense for South Dakota residents planning to stay regional, particularly those interested in healthcare or business. The school's connections in Sioux Falls create local job pipeline advantages that boost earning potential beyond national medians. You should look elsewhere if you need substantial financial aid, as only 16% of students receive assistance. Merit scholarships exist but remain limited.
The school works best for middle-class families who can cover most costs upfront or students confident in completing demanding programs like nursing. Avoid Augustana if you need extensive financial support, plan to pursue low-paying fields like education, or lack strong academic preparation for the 75% completion rate challenge.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Augustana University worth the cost?
With graduates earning $59,217 after 10 years and median debt of $25,000, Augustana University offers reasonable value for most students. The 75.6% graduation rate is solid, though earnings vary significantly by major.
What are the highest paying majors at Augustana University?
Nursing programs at Augustana University lead in earnings at $57,724, while education majors earn around $43,000-$49,000. Business graduates earn $44,666, which is below the national average for business degrees.
How much debt do Augustana University graduates have?
Augustana University graduates have a median debt load of $25,000, which is manageable compared to the national average. Most students can reasonably pay this back given the school's typical graduate earnings.
Does Augustana University have good financial aid?
The net price at Augustana University averages $24,723 per year, bringing the total cost down from the sticker price. This represents significant financial aid, though families should compare offers from other schools.