At $21,019/yr net price, Cleary University graduates earn $54,186/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $20,186/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $21,019 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $84,076 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $54,186/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$20,186/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 4.2 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 39.4% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $19,500 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $15,486/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $18,957/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $22,141/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $23,854/yr |
| $110,001+ | $23,955/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Bachelor | $66,653 | $21,999 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Master | $59,045 |
The Risk Factor
39.4% of students at Cleary 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
Cleary University delivers weak financial returns for most students, with low graduation rates undermining your investment despite manageable debt levels. Only 39% of students finish their degree, making this a high-risk choice where you could end up with debt but no credential.
Business administration majors see the strongest outcomes, earning around $60,000-$67,000 annually with typical debt loads near $22,000. This creates a reasonable debt-to-income ratio for those who actually graduate. However, Cleary's limited program variety means you have few alternatives if business doesn't suit you.
The university's Michigan location helps business graduates tap into Detroit's automotive and manufacturing sectors, but the 64% retention rate signals that many students struggle with the academic environment or find better options elsewhere. Your chances of completing your degree here are lower than at most four-year institutions.
Financial aid reaches only 27% of students, suggesting limited scholarship opportunities. The $21,000 net price sits below many private colleges, but you're paying private school rates for outcomes that don't consistently justify the cost.
Cleary works best for highly motivated business students who need flexible scheduling and can commit to finishing despite institutional challenges. You should look elsewhere if you want strong student support systems, diverse program options, or higher graduation odds. The financial risk is significant unless you're certain about completing your degree in business.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cleary University worth the cost for business students?
Cleary University's business programs show decent returns, with business administration graduates earning around $60,000-67,000 annually. At $21,019 per year in net costs and $19,500 median debt, the financial burden is manageable compared to many private colleges.
What is Cleary University's graduation rate and job outcomes?
Only 39% of Cleary University students graduate, which is well below average for four-year colleges. However, those who do complete their degrees earn a median of $54,186 ten years after enrollment, primarily through business-focused programs.
How much debt do Cleary University students typically have?
Cleary University graduates leave with a median debt of $19,500, which is relatively low for a private institution. This debt level is generally manageable given the school's focus on business careers that start around $54,000-67,000 annually.
Should I attend Cleary University or choose a different business school?
Cleary University works for students seeking affordable business education in Michigan, but the low 39% graduation rate is a serious concern. Consider whether you need the structure and support of a larger university with better completion rates.