At $16,065/yr net price, Cleveland State University graduates earn $52,131/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $18,131/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $16,065 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $64,260 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $52,131/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$18,131/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 3.5 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 48.9% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $21,797 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $13,058/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $14,122/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $16,697/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $19,512/yr |
| $110,001+ | $22,320/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering. | Master | $77,966 | |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Master | $75,204 | |
| Education, General. | Doctoral | $73,446 | |
| Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering. | Bachelor | $65,849 | $25,500 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Master | $65,610 | $30,750 |
| Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences, Other. | Master | $65,332 | |
| Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions. | Master | $64,406 | $51,250 |
| Education, Other. | Certificate | $63,997 | |
| Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions. | Doctoral | $63,666 | |
| Accounting and Related Services. | Master | $61,888 | $39,900 |
The Risk Factor
48.9% of students at Cleveland State 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
Cleveland State University delivers mixed financial returns that depend heavily on your major choice. The university's low net price of around $16,000 annually helps keep debt manageable, but the 49% graduation rate creates significant risk that you might not finish your degree at all.
Engineering and nursing majors see strong returns, with electrical engineering graduates earning nearly $78,000 and registered nurses pulling in $75,000. These programs justify the investment even with slightly higher debt loads. Business administration graduates earn $65,600 but carry $30,750 in debt, creating a less favorable payoff ratio. Liberal arts and social work majors face tougher financial prospects in Cleveland's job market.
The biggest financial risk at Cleveland State is the graduation rate. Nearly half of students don't complete their degrees, meaning they face debt without the earning power of a diploma. The 69% retention rate signals that many students struggle academically or financially in their first year.
Cleveland State works best financially for students pursuing high-demand technical fields who can handle the academic rigor and complete their degrees. The school's urban location provides internship opportunities in healthcare and manufacturing that can boost job prospects. However, students unsure about their major or those needing significant academic support should consider schools with stronger retention rates.
Merit aid is limited, with only 39% of students receiving financial aid. Your best cost strategy involves choosing a high-earning major and taking advantage of Cleveland's co-op programs to gain work experience while studying. Students planning to stay in Ohio benefit from the school's regional employer connections, but those expecting to relocate may find limited alumni networks elsewhere.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cleveland State University worth the cost?
Cleveland State University offers decent value with a net price of $16,065 and 10-year earnings of $52,131, though the 49% graduation rate is concerning. Your ROI depends heavily on your major, with engineering and nursing graduates earning $65,000-$78,000 while other programs may not justify the investment.
What are the highest paying majors at Cleveland State University?
Engineering and nursing programs at Cleveland State University provide the strongest returns, with electrical engineering graduates earning up to $77,966 and registered nurses earning $75,204. Education majors also perform well at $73,446, while business administration graduates average $65,610.
How much debt do Cleveland State University graduates have?
Cleveland State University graduates leave with a median debt of $21,797, which is manageable compared to many schools. However, with nearly half of students not graduating, there's significant risk of taking on debt without earning a degree.
Does Cleveland State University have good job outcomes?
Cleveland State University graduates earn $52,131 ten years after enrollment, which is reasonable but not exceptional. The 49% graduation rate means many students don't complete their degrees, making program selection and academic support critical for success.