Student Outcomes
- Graduation Rate (4-year)
- 43.9%
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 44.5%
- Retention Rate
- 66.9%
- Median Earnings (10 years after entry)
- $44,301
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $20,547
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 15:1
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 44.6%
- Estimated Monthly Loan Payment
- $218/mo
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Master | $87,697 | $44,596 |
| Clinical/Medical Laboratory Science/Research and Allied Professions. | Bachelor | $60,226 | $12,500 |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Bachelor | $56,214 | $23,365 |
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | Bachelor | $50,677 | $22,246 |
| Educational Administration and Supervision. | Master | $49,058 | |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Master | $46,087 | |
| Curriculum and Instruction. | Master | $45,584 | |
| Education, General. | Master | $44,021 | $35,766 |
| Communication and Media Studies. | Master | $43,798 | |
| Health/Medical Preparatory Programs. | Bachelor | $41,937 | |
| Health and Physical Education/Fitness. | Master | $41,937 | |
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas. | Master | $39,153 | $22,600 |
| Social Work. | Master | $39,153 | $20,500 |
| Student Counseling and Personnel Services. | Master | $37,208 | $41,000 |
| History. | Bachelor | $36,938 | $19,375 |
Outcomes Overview
Austin Peay graduates earn a median salary of $44,301 ten years after graduation, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of 46%. Monthly loan payments of $218 consume about 6% of typical graduate income. The university's strong education and business programs funnel many graduates into teaching, healthcare administration, and regional business roles throughout Tennessee. With 93% of graduates finding employment, job placement rates exceed national averages. However, the 44% loan repayment rate suggests many struggle with debt management despite steady employment. Given the modest debt load relative to earnings and strong job placement in stable career fields, Austin Peay delivers an average return on investment for students seeking practical degrees.