Student Outcomes
- Graduation Rate (4-year)
- 53.0%
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 55.5%
- Retention Rate
- 75.0%
- Median Earnings (10 years after entry)
- $49,520
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $20,776
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 12:1
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 53.2%
- Estimated Monthly Loan Payment
- $220/mo
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Economics. | Bachelor | $48,041 | |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Bachelor | $33,993 | |
| Psychology, General. | Bachelor | $30,988 | $18,775 |
| Biology, General. | Bachelor | $29,250 | |
| Theological and Ministerial Studies. | Bachelor | $28,598 | $20,000 |
Outcomes Overview
Ave Maria graduates earn a median of $49,520 ten years after graduation, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of 42% with typical student debt of $20,776. Monthly loan payments of $220 consume about 5% of gross income for recent graduates. The university's strong Catholic identity often leads graduates into education, nonprofit work, and faith-based organizations, which typically offer lower starting salaries but meaningful work. The 94.9% employment rate demonstrates solid job placement despite the 55.5% six-year graduation rate. However, the relatively modest earnings compared to the $43,667 total cost of attendance suggests graduates prioritize mission-driven careers over maximum earning potential. This represents an average return on investment.