At $13,778/yr net price, Delta State University graduates earn $41,991/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $7,991/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $13,778 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $55,112 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $41,991/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$7,991/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 6.9 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 46.9% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $20,390 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $11,183/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $11,200/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $15,514/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $17,418/yr |
| $110,001+ | $17,117/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Master | $109,763 | |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Master | $55,964 | $26,702 |
The Risk Factor
46.9% of students at Delta 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
Delta State University delivers mixed financial returns that depend heavily on your major choice. The nursing program stands out with graduates earning $109,763 annually, creating strong ROI potential that justifies the investment. Business administration graduates earn $55,964 but carry higher debt loads of $26,702, weakening the return.
The 47% graduation rate presents a significant financial risk. Nearly half of students leave without degrees, often carrying debt with no credential to show for it. The 74% retention rate suggests many students struggle in their second year, making careful program selection critical from the start.
Your best financial bet is nursing if you can handle the academic demands. The program's graduates earn nearly triple the university median of $41,991, making it one of the strongest nursing ROI opportunities in Mississippi. Other programs show weaker earnings potential relative to the investment.
Financial aid reaches 43% of students, but the relatively low net price of $13,778 suggests limited institutional grant aid. Merit scholarship opportunities appear modest compared to private competitors. The median debt of $20,390 stays manageable for successful nursing graduates but becomes problematic for lower-earning majors.
Delta State works financially if you pursue nursing and can complete the program successfully. Students considering other majors face weaker job market prospects in the Mississippi Delta region. If you're unsure about your major or struggle with college-level coursework, the graduation rate suggests you should consider community college or gap year alternatives before committing to four-year costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Delta State University worth the cost for the earnings you get after graduation?
Delta State's graduates earn a median of $41,991 ten years after enrollment, which is below average for a four-year degree. With a net price of $13,778 annually, the return on investment is modest unless you pursue high-paying programs like nursing.
What are the best paying programs at Delta State University?
Nursing programs at Delta State offer the strongest financial returns, with graduates earning around $109,763 annually. Business programs pay significantly less at about $55,964, while other majors typically fall below the school's overall graduate earning average.
How much student debt do Delta State University graduates typically have?
Delta State graduates carry a median debt of $20,390, which is manageable compared to national averages. However, with the school's low graduation rate of 47%, many students accumulate debt without finishing their degree.
Should I be concerned about Delta State University's graduation rate?
Yes, Delta State's 47% graduation rate means more than half of students don't complete their degree within six years. This creates significant financial risk since you could accumulate debt without earning the credential needed for higher-paying jobs.