At $19,335/yr net price, Bowie State University graduates earn $54,537/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $20,537/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $19,335 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $77,340 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $54,537/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$20,537/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 3.8 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 38.1% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $22,985 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $16,935/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $16,967/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $19,731/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $23,194/yr |
| $110,001+ | $23,943/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. | Master | $95,473 | |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Bachelor | $62,012 | $21,500 |
| Human Resources Management and Services. | Master | $59,045 | $41,000 |
| Computer and Information Sciences and Support Services, Other. | Bachelor | $58,673 | $27,500 |
| Communication, Journalism, and Related Programs, Other. | Master | $52,107 | |
| Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology. | Master | $52,107 | |
| Public Administration. | Master | $52,107 | $39,924 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Bachelor | $46,087 | $22,897 |
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. | Bachelor | $43,696 | |
| Sociology. | Bachelor | $37,748 | $22,578 |
The Risk Factor
38.1% of students at Bowie State 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
Bowie State University offers uneven financial returns that depend heavily on your major choice. The nursing program stands out as the clear winner, with graduates earning $95,473 annually while carrying relatively modest debt loads around $21,500. This makes nursing one of the strongest ROI programs among Maryland public universities.
Your major selection becomes critical at Bowie State because earnings vary dramatically across programs. Computer science and human resources graduates earn respectable middle-class salaries in the $58,000 range, though HR majors face concerning debt levels at $41,000. Psychology graduates earn $52,107, which barely exceeds the campus median and may struggle with loan repayment depending on career path.
The school presents significant completion risks with a 38% graduation rate and 70% retention rate. If you transfer or drop out, you lose your investment without gaining the credential needed for higher earnings. This makes Bowie State financially risky for students who are undecided about their major or lack strong academic preparation.
Bowie State works best financially for Maryland residents committed to nursing or STEM fields who can take advantage of in-state pricing. The $19,335 net price is reasonable for a four-year degree, particularly in high-demand fields. Students interested in liberal arts or undecided majors should consider alternatives with stronger completion rates.
The relatively low percentage of students receiving aid (44%) suggests limited need-based assistance, making this school most viable for middle-income families who can cover costs without excessive borrowing. Merit scholarship opportunities appear limited based on the aid distribution.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bowie State University worth the cost?
Bowie State University offers mixed value depending on your major. Nursing graduates earn $95,473 after 10 years, making it a strong investment, but the overall graduate median salary of $54,537 is relatively modest for a $19,335 annual cost.
What are the best paying majors at Bowie State University?
Nursing programs at Bowie State University provide the strongest return on investment, with graduates earning around $95,473 annually. Computer science and human resources management also perform well, with graduates earning $58,673 and $59,045 respectively.
How much debt do Bowie State University graduates typically have?
Bowie State University graduates leave with a median debt of $22,985, which is manageable compared to many schools. However, with a 38% graduation rate, many students accumulate debt without completing their degree.
What is the graduation rate at Bowie State University and why does it matter?
Bowie State University has a 38% graduation rate, meaning most students don't finish their degree. This creates significant financial risk since students who don't graduate still carry debt but miss out on the salary boost that comes with a completed degree.