At $22,198/yr net price, Bluefield University graduates earn $48,896/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $14,896/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $22,198 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $88,792 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $48,896/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$14,896/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 6 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 27.1% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $21,855 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $22,017/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $22,146/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $20,952/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $21,214/yr |
| $110,001+ | $23,958/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Bachelor | $57,318 | $16,146 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Bachelor | $41,007 | $21,656 |
| Criminal Justice and Corrections. | Bachelor | $35,600 | $23,500 |
| Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other. | Bachelor | $35,060 | |
| Human Services, General. | Bachelor | $33,993 | $20,834 |
| Health and Physical Education/Fitness. | Bachelor | $16,478 | $27,000 |
The Risk Factor
27.1% of students at Bluefield University graduate within 6 years. Fewer than half of students complete their degree. If you don't graduate, the financial investment may not pay off.
Analysis
Bluefield University delivers weak financial returns that make it a risky investment for most students. With median 10-year earnings of $48,896 against a net price of $22,198 annually, you face long payback periods and limited earning potential in a region where higher-paying jobs remain scarce.
Nursing stands out as the only program worth your money, generating $57,318 in median earnings with just $16,146 in debt. This creates a manageable debt-to-income ratio and faster loan repayment. Business graduates earn $41,007 but carry nearly $22,000 in debt, making the return marginal. Criminal justice and human services programs produce earnings in the mid-$30,000s with substantial debt loads, creating financial strain for graduates.
The 27% graduation rate signals serious completion risks that compound your financial exposure. Nearly half of students never finish, leaving them with debt but no degree. The 49% retention rate means many students transfer or drop out after freshman year, wasting time and money.
You should consider Bluefield only if you plan to study nursing and can complete the program within four years. The school works for students who need a small, supportive environment and have realistic expectations about post-graduation earnings. If you want business, criminal justice, or liberal arts training, community colleges or regional public universities offer better value.
Financial aid reaches 46% of students, but merit scholarships appear limited. Focus on need-based aid and complete your degree quickly to minimize total costs. If you cannot get into the nursing program or lack confidence in your ability to graduate, look elsewhere.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bluefield University worth the cost?
Bluefield University's ROI depends heavily on your major. Nursing programs deliver strong returns with $57,318 median earnings, but the overall 10-year earnings of $48,896 barely justify the $22,198 annual cost for most other programs.
What are the job prospects after graduating from Bluefield University?
Job prospects vary widely by program at Bluefield University. Nursing graduates earn well above the school average, while criminal justice and human services majors face earnings around $35,000 despite similar debt loads.
How much debt do Bluefield University students typically graduate with?
Bluefield University graduates carry a median debt of $21,855. With a 27% graduation rate, many students leave with debt but no degree, making this a high-risk investment for students who struggle academically.
Which programs at Bluefield University offer the best return on investment?
Nursing programs at Bluefield University offer the best ROI, with graduates earning $57,318 annually. Business majors earn $41,007, while other popular programs like criminal justice and human services pay significantly less.