At $23,911/yr net price, Emory University graduates earn $80,137/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $46,137/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $23,911 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $95,644 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $80,137/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$46,137/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 2.1 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 91.8% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $18,250 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $6,895/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $8,640/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $11,687/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $21,124/yr |
| $110,001+ | $54,582/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Medical Clinical Sciences/Graduate Medical Studies. | Master | $194,665 | |
| Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services. | Master | $162,817 | $170,901 |
| Business/Commerce, General. | Master | $135,250 | $47,269 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Master | $134,287 | $60,046 |
| Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions. | Master | $104,440 | $174,639 |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Master | $100,571 | $63,050 |
| Computer Science. | Bachelor | $83,177 | $15,500 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Bachelor | $77,283 | $19,500 |
| Law. | Doctoral | $72,711 | $134,617 |
| Genetics. | Master | $72,671 |
The Risk Factor
91.8% of students at Emory University graduate within 6 years. Most students who start here finish their degree.
Analysis
Emory delivers strong ROI for most students, with median earnings of $80,137 substantially outpacing the relatively low net price of $23,911. Your financial risk stays manageable with median debt at just $18,250, well below national averages for private universities.
The medical and business programs generate strong returns. Medical Clinical Sciences graduates earn nearly $195,000 annually, while business majors land in the $134,000-$135,000 range with reasonable debt loads under $65,000. These programs capitalize on Atlanta's thriving healthcare sector and corporate headquarters presence.
Avoid Allied Health programs unless you plan carefully. While some Allied Health tracks pay well at $162,817, others saddle you with $174,639 in debt for $104,440 salaries. The debt-to-income ratio makes loan payments difficult even with decent earnings.
Emory works best if you can handle the upfront costs or qualify for need-based aid. Only 18% of students receive aid, suggesting most families pay close to full price. If you need significant financial assistance and don't qualify for Emory's limited aid pool, state schools may offer better value.
The 96% retention rate and 92% graduation rate mean you'll likely finish your degree, avoiding the worst financial outcome of paying without graduating. Atlanta's job market supports Emory graduates well, particularly in healthcare, finance, and consulting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Emory University worth the cost?
Emory's graduates earn $80,137 ten years after enrollment with relatively low debt of $18,250, making it a solid investment for most students. The net price of $23,911 after aid is reasonable for a top-tier private university, especially given the 92% graduation rate.
What majors at Emory University have the best ROI?
Medical and health programs at Emory deliver exceptional returns, with medical clinical sciences graduates earning nearly $195,000 annually. Business majors also perform well at around $135,000, while other health-related fields average over $100,000.
How much financial aid does Emory University actually give?
Emory brings the sticker price down significantly through aid, with students paying an average net price of $23,911 per year. The school meets demonstrated need well, keeping median debt low at $18,250 despite the high initial cost.
Is Emory University too expensive for middle-class families?
Middle-class families often find Emory affordable due to substantial need-based aid that reduces costs to under $24,000 annually for many students. The combination of strong earnings potential and manageable debt levels makes it accessible beyond just wealthy families.