Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $78,493/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$44,493/yr |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $13,769 |
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 | $97,959 | $27,295 |
| Nuclear Engineering Technologies/Technicians. | Bachelor | $94,408 | $10,555 |
| Bioethics/Medical Ethics. | Master | $86,129 | $26,341 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Master | $83,768 | $27,333 |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Bachelor | $74,747 | $17,152 |
| Human Resources Management and Services. | Master | $66,889 | $34,167 |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Associate | $63,005 | $13,862 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Bachelor | $55,512 | $13,323 |
| Criminal Justice and Corrections. | Bachelor | $53,358 | $14,583 |
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. | Bachelor | $49,660 | $7,925 |
Analysis
Excelsior University delivers solid financial returns with a median debt load of just $13,769 and graduates earning $78,493 ten years out. This online-focused institution particularly excels for working adults in healthcare and technical fields.
Your best bet financially is nursing, where graduates earn nearly $98,000 annually despite carrying $27,295 in debt. Nuclear engineering technology also pays off handsomely at $94,408 with minimal debt at $10,555. Business administration generates strong returns at $83,768, though you'll carry more debt. The earnings spread between nursing specializations is notable, with some tracks earning $23,000 less than others.
The major financial risk at Excelsior is program selection. While top programs deliver excellent returns, lower-performing majors could leave you with limited earning power. The school's competency-based model means you need strong self-discipline to complete coursework without traditional classroom structure.
Excelsior works best if you're already working in healthcare or technology and need credentials to advance. The low debt load makes it particularly attractive for career changers who can't afford to stop working. However, recent graduates seeking their first career should consider schools with stronger campus recruiting and alumni networks.
Only 25% of students receive financial aid, suggesting most pay out of pocket or through employer tuition assistance. This creates an unusual active where you might find better deals elsewhere if you qualify for need-based aid at traditional schools, but Excelsior could be cost-effective if you're paying full price anyway.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Excelsior University worth the cost?
Excelsior University offers reasonable value with median debt of $13,769 and 10-year earnings of $78,493. The low debt burden makes it financially safer than many colleges, though earnings are modest compared to top-tier schools.
What are the best paying programs at Excelsior University?
Nuclear Engineering Technologies leads at $94,408 annually, followed by some nursing specializations at $97,959. Business Administration graduates earn around $83,768, while general nursing programs pay $74,747.
How much debt do Excelsior University graduates typically have?
Graduates carry a median debt of $13,769, which is significantly lower than the national average. This manageable debt level reduces financial risk even if career earnings are moderate.
Does Excelsior University have good ROI for online students?
The combination of low debt and decent earnings creates acceptable ROI, especially for working adults completing degrees part-time. However, students should research whether their specific program justifies the cost versus other online options.