Student Outcomes
- Graduation Rate (4-year)
- 29.6%
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 38.0%
- Retention Rate
- 75.6%
- Median Earnings (10 years after entry)
- $35,715
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $11,842
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 10:1
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 23.7%
- Estimated Monthly Loan Payment
- $126/mo
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Practical Nursing, Vocational Nursing and Nursing Assistants. | Certificate | $39,648 | $13,400 |
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. | Associate | $21,052 |
Outcomes Overview
Donnelly graduates face mixed financial outcomes after earning their degrees. With median debt of $11,842 and median earnings of $35,715 at 10 years post-graduation, the debt-to-earnings ratio sits at a manageable 33%. Monthly loan payments of $126 consume about 4% of typical graduate income, well below the recommended 10% threshold. The college serves a predominantly low-income student body, with 63% receiving Pell Grants, making any four-year degree a significant step up economically. An impressive 96.6% employment rate shows graduates find work quickly. Many enter healthcare, education, and social services reflecting the college's mission-driven focus. Despite modest earnings compared to research universities, Donnelly offers a strong return on investment for its target population.