Student Outcomes
- Graduation Rate (4-year)
- 27.0%
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 28.5%
- Retention Rate
- 56.7%
- Median Earnings (10 years after entry)
- $38,412
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $29,491
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 15:1
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 31.1%
- Estimated Monthly Loan Payment
- $313/mo
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. | Bachelor | $37,363 | |
| Graphic Communications. | Bachelor | $35,060 | |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Bachelor | $28,598 | $27,712 |
| Criminal Justice and Corrections. | Bachelor | $28,366 | $37,000 |
| Social Sciences, General. | Bachelor | $28,366 | $24,387 |
| Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General. | Bachelor | $26,121 | |
| Biology, General. | Bachelor | $24,615 | $27,000 |
| Health and Physical Education/Fitness. | Bachelor | $23,340 | $29,000 |
| Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology. | Bachelor | $21,850 |
Outcomes Overview
Chowan graduates face significant financial challenges after leaving campus. The median debt of $29,491 creates monthly payments of $313, consuming roughly 10% of typical graduate earnings of $38,412 annually. This debt-to-income ratio of 77% exceeds recommended levels for most financial advisors. The low loan repayment rate of 31% signals real struggles among alumni. Many graduates enter fields like education, social services, and business that align with the university's liberal arts mission but offer modest starting salaries. While 96.4% find employment, the combination of high debt and below-average earnings creates financial strain. This represents a weak return on investment despite strong job placement rates.