Student Outcomes
- Graduation Rate (4-year)
- 34.9%
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 34.6%
- Retention Rate
- 55.3%
- Median Earnings (10 years after entry)
- $38,217
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $18,250
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 17:1
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 32.1%
- Estimated Monthly Loan Payment
- $193/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. | Associate | $48,935 | $15,500 |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Bachelor | $48,041 | $25,000 |
| Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions. | Associate | $37,208 | $12,450 |
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. | Bachelor | $32,391 | $19,426 |
| Criminal Justice and Corrections. | Bachelor | $30,554 | |
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. | Bachelor | $28,236 | |
| Social Sciences, General. | Bachelor | $26,933 |
Outcomes Overview
Bluefield State graduates earn a median salary of $38,217 ten years after graduation, creating a debt-to-income ratio of 48% based on the typical $18,250 in student loans. Monthly loan payments of $193 consume about 6% of gross income for recent graduates. The 32% loan repayment rate indicates many alumni struggle with their debt obligations. With a 97% employment rate, finding work isn't the issue, salary levels are. Many graduates enter education, healthcare support, and public service roles that offer job security but modest pay. As a historically black institution serving primarily West Virginia residents, Bluefield State provides educational access at a reasonable cost. However, given the high debt-to-income ratio and low earnings compared to loan obligations, this represents a weak return on investment.