At $16,957/yr net price, Goldey-Beacom College graduates earn $59,892/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $25,892/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $16,957 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $67,828 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $59,892/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$25,892/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 2.6 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 58.9% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $18,900 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $14,262/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $13,789/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $17,623/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $19,179/yr |
| $110,001+ | $21,408/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Master | $55,286 | |
| Accounting and Related Services. | Bachelor | $46,087 | $15,000 |
| Finance and Financial Management Services. | Master | $45,529 | |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Bachelor | $35,416 | $18,473 |
| Criminal Justice and Corrections. | Bachelor | $29,685 | $19,950 |
The Risk Factor
58.9% of students at Goldey-Beacom College 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
Goldey-Beacom College delivers mixed financial returns that depend heavily on your major choice. The school's $16,957 net price makes it affordable compared to most private colleges, but graduation rates below 60% create real completion risk for your investment.
Your program selection will make or break your ROI here. Business Administration graduates earn $55,286 within ten years, providing solid returns on the relatively low cost. Accounting majors see more modest earnings at $46,087 but graduate with just $15,000 in debt, creating manageable payment obligations. Finance graduates face a tougher equation with $45,529 earnings that may not justify the degree cost.
Criminal Justice represents the school's worst financial bet. Graduates earn just $29,685 while carrying nearly $20,000 in debt, creating a payment-to-income ratio that will strain most budgets. You should avoid this program if financial return matters to you.
The school works best for Delaware-area students who can minimize housing costs and plan to stay in the regional job market. With only 39% of students receiving financial aid, merit opportunities appear limited, so you will likely pay close to sticker price.
Your biggest risk lies in the 41% chance you will not graduate at all, losing your investment entirely. The 77% retention rate suggests many students struggle with the academic or social fit. You should have strong confidence in your ability to complete the program before enrolling.
This college makes financial sense for focused business students who need an affordable degree close to home. If you are uncertain about your major or considering Criminal Justice, look elsewhere for better financial prospects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Goldey-Beacom College worth the cost?
Goldey-Beacom College offers reasonable value with a net price of $16,957 and median debt of $18,900, but graduates earn $59,892 after 10 years. The school's business programs perform better financially than criminal justice, which only pays $29,685 annually.
What is the return on investment for Goldey-Beacom College graduates?
Graduates see decent returns if they choose business-focused majors, with business administration and accounting programs leading to $35,000-$55,000 starting salaries. However, the 58.9% graduation rate means 4 out of 10 students don't finish their degree.
Which Goldey-Beacom College programs have the best job prospects?
Business administration and management offer the highest earnings at $55,286, followed by accounting at $46,087. Criminal justice graduates earn significantly less at $29,685, making it a riskier investment at this school.
How much debt do Goldey-Beacom College students typically have?
The median debt is $18,900, which is manageable compared to many private colleges. With 10-year earnings around $59,892, most business graduates should be able to handle loan payments without major financial strain.