At $18,321/yr net price, Buena Vista University graduates earn $49,156/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $15,156/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $18,321 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $73,284 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $49,156/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$15,156/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 4.8 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 47.3% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $25,000 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $14,583/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $15,328/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $16,286/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $19,059/yr |
| $110,001+ | $22,791/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Curriculum and Instruction. | Master | $58,943 | |
| Accounting and Related Services. | Bachelor | $47,494 | $23,270 |
| Finance and Financial Management Services. | Bachelor | $47,260 | $20,700 |
| Student Counseling and Personnel Services. | Master | $45,455 | $31,671 |
| Human Resources Management and Services. | Bachelor | $43,426 | $21,833 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Bachelor | $40,089 | $25,000 |
| Communication, Journalism, and Related Programs, Other. | Bachelor | $39,369 | |
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas. | Bachelor | $39,369 | $28,900 |
| Health and Physical Education/Fitness. | Bachelor | $39,009 | $27,000 |
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. | Bachelor | $37,819 | $28,000 |
The Risk Factor
47.3% of students at Buena Vista University graduate within 6 years. More than half of students finish, but the dropout rate is a real factor in whether this investment pays off.
Analysis
Buena Vista University delivers below-average returns for most graduates, with median earnings of $49,156 after ten years that barely justify the financial investment. The 47% graduation rate signals significant completion risk that you must factor into your calculations.
Education majors represent your best financial bet, with Curriculum and Instruction graduates earning $58,943 annually. Accounting and Finance also provide solid returns with starting salaries around $47,000 and manageable debt loads under $24,000. These programs align well with Iowa's job market and regional employer needs.
Student Counseling graduates face a problematic debt-to-income ratio, carrying $31,671 in debt for a $45,455 salary. Human Resources graduates earn even less at $43,426, making these programs financially questionable choices at Buena Vista's price point.
The school's 76% retention rate suggests many students transfer or drop out after freshman year, potentially leaving you with debt but no degree. This risk is particularly concerning given the $18,321 annual net price, which creates financial pressure that may contribute to departure rates.
Buena Vista works financially if you plan to major in education or business and can complete your degree in four years. The small-town Iowa location keeps living costs reasonable, and the school's regional reputation serves local job markets adequately. However, if you're unsure about your major or considering programs outside education and business, you'll likely find better value elsewhere. The completion risk alone makes this a poor choice for students who struggle academically or lack clear career direction.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Buena Vista University worth the cost?
Buena Vista University graduates earn $49,156 annually ten years after graduation, which is below average for a four-year degree. With median debt of $25,000 and a graduation rate under 50%, the financial return is questionable for most students.
What are the best paying majors at Buena Vista University?
Curriculum and Instruction graduates earn the highest at $58,943 annually, followed by Accounting at $47,494. These education and business programs offer the strongest financial returns at Buena Vista University.
How much debt do Buena Vista University students graduate with?
The median debt for Buena Vista University graduates is $25,000. With average earnings of $49,156, this debt level is manageable but leaves little room for financial growth in the early career years.
Does Buena Vista University have good financial aid?
The net price at Buena Vista University is $18,321 per year after financial aid. However, with a 47% graduation rate, nearly half of students don't complete their degree, making the investment risky regardless of aid received.