Student Outcomes
- Graduation Rate (4-year)
- 67.9%
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 66.7%
- Retention Rate
- 85.1%
- Median Earnings (10 years after entry)
- $38,289
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $26,000
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 9:1
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 73.7%
- Estimated Monthly Loan Payment
- $276/mo
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature/Letters, Other. | Master | $29,685 | $38,838 |
| English Language and Literature, General. | Bachelor | $21,964 | |
| Visual and Performing Arts, General. | Bachelor | $17,950 | $27,000 |
Outcomes Overview
Bennington graduates enter the workforce with a median debt of $26,000, creating monthly payments of $276. With median earnings of $38,289 ten years post-graduation, graduates allocate roughly 8.6% of their income to loan payments. This debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.68 sits below the concerning 1.0 threshold. The college's unconventional curriculum attracts students pursuing creative fields like writing, theater, and visual arts, where early-career earnings often start lower. Notable alumni like Donna Tartt and Peter Dinklage demonstrate the long-term potential in creative industries. The 89.5% employment rate reflects strong career outcomes despite modest initial salaries. For students committed to artistic or creative careers, Bennington offers an average return on investment.