At $18,877/yr net price, Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania graduates earn $52,416/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $18,416/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $18,877 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $75,508 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $52,416/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$18,416/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 4.1 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 53.0% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $26,000 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $13,799/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $14,068/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $17,711/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $21,110/yr |
| $110,001+ | $23,167/yr |
The Risk Factor
53.0% of students at Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania 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
Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania offers a mixed financial picture with concerning graduation rates that undermine its otherwise reasonable costs. With a 53% graduation rate, nearly half of students leave without a degree while still carrying debt.
Your net price of $18,877 annually sits below many regional competitors, but the $52,416 median earnings create a modest return on investment. Engineering and business programs typically deliver the strongest financial outcomes at Commonwealth, while liberal arts majors face tougher job prospects in the rural Pennsylvania market.
The school's location in Bloomsburg limits high-paying career opportunities compared to Pennsylvania's major metropolitan areas. You'll likely need to relocate after graduation to maximize your earning potential, which adds hidden costs to your investment calculation.
Commonwealth works best financially for Pennsylvania residents pursuing in-demand fields like nursing, education, or business who can secure merit aid. The relatively low percentage of students receiving aid suggests merit scholarships may be available for strong applicants. Avoid this school if you're considering majors with weak job placement rates or if you need extensive student support services to graduate.
Your biggest financial risk here is joining the 47% who don't complete their degrees. The 75% retention rate signals students struggle with academic or social fit. If you're not confident about your major choice or study habits, consider schools with stronger support systems and higher completion rates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania worth the cost compared to other state schools?
With graduates earning $52,416 ten years out and typical debt around $26,000, Commonwealth University offers moderate value for a state school. The graduation rate of 53% is concerning and suggests many students don't complete their programs.
What is the return on investment for Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania graduates?
Graduates typically see a reasonable return with median debt of $26,000 and earnings of $52,416 after ten years. However, the low 53% graduation rate means nearly half of students pay tuition without earning a degree.
Which programs at Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania have the best job prospects?
The school's education, business, and health science programs typically lead to stable employment in Pennsylvania. Given the modest overall earnings data, students should research specific program outcomes before enrolling.
How much financial aid does Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania actually provide?
The net price averages $18,877 annually, which represents decent affordability for a state university. Students should apply early for aid, as Pennsylvania's state grant funding often runs out before the academic year begins.