At $21,165/yr net price, Faulkner University graduates earn $43,457/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $9,457/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $21,165 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $84,660 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $43,457/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$9,457/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 9 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 37.7% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $23,000 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $21,012/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $16,987/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $27,967/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $31,335/yr |
| $110,001+ | $31,706/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Master | $50,856 | $24,125 |
| Law. | Doctoral | $45,026 | $137,560 |
| Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods. | Master | $41,992 | $25,500 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Bachelor | $40,821 | $26,750 |
| Human Resources Management and Services. | Bachelor | $38,289 | $25,000 |
| Criminal Justice and Corrections. | Bachelor | $34,704 | $22,100 |
| Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions. | Master | $32,925 | $55,250 |
The Risk Factor
37.7% of students at Faulkner University graduate within 6 years. Fewer than half of students complete their degree. If you don't graduate, the financial investment may not pay off.
Analysis
Faulkner University delivers weak financial returns that should make you reconsider your options. With median earnings of $43,457 ten years after graduation and a troubling 37% graduation rate, your chances of completing your degree and earning a solid income are both below average.
Business Administration stands out as the clear winner financially, with graduates earning $50,856 annually against reasonable debt of $24,125. Management Sciences also performs adequately at $41,992 in earnings. However, the law program presents a financial disaster: graduates carry $137,560 in debt while earning just $45,026, creating an unsustainable debt-to-income ratio that will burden you for decades.
The university's 70% retention rate signals that many students struggle to adapt or afford continuing their education here. With only 44% of students receiving financial aid, you may find yourself paying closer to the full sticker price if your family income falls in the middle range where you qualify for little need-based assistance.
You should consider Faulkner only if you plan to study business and can graduate without excessive borrowing. The school works best for local students who can live at home and reduce costs, particularly those interested in the business programs that actually deliver reasonable career outcomes. If you're considering law school here, look elsewhere immediately. The debt burden will outweigh any potential earnings for years.
Alabama residents have stronger public options that offer better value. Unless you receive substantial merit aid or have compelling personal reasons to attend this specific Christian institution, your money will work harder at alternative schools with higher graduation rates and better earnings outcomes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Faulkner University worth the cost?
Faulkner University graduates earn $43,457 ten years after enrollment, which is below the national average for college graduates. With a net price of $21,165 per year and a graduation rate of only 38%, the return on investment is questionable for most students.
What are the best paying programs at Faulkner University?
Law and Business Administration offer the highest earning potential at Faulkner University, with graduates earning around $45,000-$50,000 annually. However, these figures are still modest compared to similar programs at other institutions.
How much debt do Faulkner University students graduate with?
The median debt for Faulkner University graduates is $23,000, which is manageable compared to many private schools. Given the relatively low earnings of $43,457, graduates should expect a debt-to-income ratio that requires careful financial planning.
Does Faulkner University have a good graduation rate?
Faulkner University has a graduation rate of 38%, which is significantly below the national average. This means most students who enroll do not complete their degree, making it a risky investment for many applicants.