At $18,292/yr net price, Cumberland University graduates earn $57,687/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $23,687/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $18,292 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $73,168 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $57,687/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$23,687/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 3.1 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 47.0% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $17,952 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $16,827/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $18,220/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $17,891/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $19,155/yr |
| $110,001+ | $23,937/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Master | $69,338 | $24,420 |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Bachelor | $56,415 | $23,000 |
| Public Administration. | Master | $46,087 | |
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas. | Master | $41,937 | $21,380 |
| Health and Physical Education/Fitness. | Master | $41,565 | |
| Education, General. | Master | $41,261 | $23,000 |
| Criminal Justice and Corrections. | Bachelor | $31,314 | |
| Biology, General. | Bachelor | $28,960 | |
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas. | Bachelor | $28,598 |
The Risk Factor
47.0% of students at Cumberland 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
Cumberland University delivers mixed financial returns that depend heavily on your major choice. The school's $18,292 annual net price paired with relatively low median debt of $17,952 creates a manageable cost structure, but the 47% graduation rate poses significant completion risk that could derail your investment entirely.
Business Administration emerges as the clear financial winner, generating $69,338 in median earnings despite carrying higher debt loads of $24,420. Nursing offers solid middle-ground returns at $56,415, while education majors face concerning prospects with starting salaries around $41,937 that may struggle to justify even Cumberland's modest costs over time.
The school's 62% retention rate signals that many students transfer out after freshman year, suggesting either poor academic fit or financial strain. If you're not completely committed to finishing at Cumberland specifically, this pattern should concern you. The relatively small percentage receiving aid at 33% indicates limited need-based support, though this may reflect the school's already discounted pricing strategy.
Cumberland works best for cost-conscious students pursuing business or healthcare programs who can handle the completion challenges. The regional Tennessee job market supports these career paths reasonably well. However, if you're considering education or less lucrative majors, you should seriously evaluate whether the degree premium justifies the cost, especially given the graduation rate concerns.
Avoid Cumberland if you need substantial financial aid beyond the posted net price or if you're uncertain about your major. The school's completion track record suggests it's not the place for exploratory students who might switch paths multiple times.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cumberland University worth the cost?
Cumberland University's $18,292 net price leads to median earnings of $57,687 after 10 years, which provides reasonable value for most graduates. However, the 47% graduation rate means many students don't complete their programs, making it risky for students who aren't committed to finishing.
What are the highest paying majors at Cumberland University?
Business Administration graduates from Cumberland University earn around $69,338 annually, making it the best financial return. Nursing graduates earn $56,415, while education majors typically start around $41,937.
How much debt do Cumberland University students graduate with?
Cumberland University graduates have a median debt of $17,952, which is manageable compared to the national average. The relatively low debt load helps make the degree financially viable for most career paths.
Does Cumberland University have good job outcomes after graduation?
Cumberland University graduates earn $57,687 ten years after enrollment, which is solid but not exceptional. The business and nursing programs show the strongest earning potential, while education majors face lower starting salaries typical of that field.