At $23,451/yr net price, Austin College graduates earn $61,296/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $27,296/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $23,451 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $93,804 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $61,296/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$27,296/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 3.4 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 69.5% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $24,500 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $19,701/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $18,021/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $22,351/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $28,185/yr |
| $110,001+ | $27,503/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. | Master | $50,439 | |
| Economics. | Bachelor | $44,384 | |
| Business/Commerce, General. | Bachelor | $38,289 | $25,000 |
| Biology, General. | Bachelor | $32,925 | $24,277 |
| International Relations and National Security Studies. | Bachelor | $29,685 | |
| History. | Bachelor | $25,967 | $25,331 |
| Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics. | Bachelor | $25,194 | |
| Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other. | Bachelor | $24,035 | $25,142 |
| Political Science and Government. | Bachelor | $24,035 | $20,947 |
| Communication and Media Studies. | Bachelor | $23,351 |
The Risk Factor
69.5% of students at Austin College graduate within 6 years. A significant share of students finish, but roughly 31% do not complete their degree.
Analysis
Austin College delivers mixed financial returns, with strong overall earnings but concerning gaps between programs. Your median 10-year earnings of $61,296 significantly outpace the national average, but this masks dramatic variation across majors.
Teacher Education tops the earnings chart at $50,439, making it your best bet for career ROI despite the profession's typically modest pay scales. Economics follows at $44,384, while Business majors earn just $38,289 with $25,000 in debt. Biology graduates face the steepest challenge, earning only $32,925 while carrying $24,277 in debt. International Relations delivers the weakest returns at $29,685.
You face significant financial risk if you choose Biology or International Relations, where your debt will likely exceed one year's starting salary. The 69.5% graduation rate means three in ten students pay tuition without earning a degree, amplifying the downside risk.
Austin College works financially if you major in Teacher Education or Economics and can manage the $23,451 annual net price. The school becomes questionable if you're considering Biology or International Relations, where you'll find better ROI elsewhere. Only 30% of students receive aid, so expect limited financial assistance beyond merit scholarships.
Your best strategy involves choosing your major carefully and minimizing debt. The strong overall earnings suggest Austin College delivers value in its top programs, but you must avoid the majors that consistently underperform. If you're set on Biology or International Relations, consider schools with stronger employment networks in these fields.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Austin College worth the cost for the education you get?
Austin College graduates earn $61,296 ten years after graduation, which is reasonable for a $23,451 annual net price. However, the 69.5% graduation rate means nearly one in three students don't finish, making it a risky investment for borderline students.
What are the best paying majors at Austin College?
Teacher education graduates from Austin College earn $50,439 after ten years, making it the highest-paying program. Economics ($44,384) and general business ($38,289) also provide solid returns, while biology and international relations graduates earn significantly less.
How much debt do Austin College graduates typically have?
Austin College graduates leave with a median debt of $24,500, which is manageable given the typical $61,296 earnings ten years out. This debt level allows most graduates to pay off loans without major financial strain.
Does Austin College provide good value compared to other Texas colleges?
Austin College's $23,451 net price is competitive for a private liberal arts college, and the 10-year earnings of $61,296 represent decent value. The relatively low graduation rate compared to similar schools is the main concern for prospective students.