At $24,817/yr net price, Gordon College graduates earn $52,119/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $18,119/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $24,817 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $99,268 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $52,119/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$18,119/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 5.5 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 67.6% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $26,250 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $18,678/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $21,394/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $23,051/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $24,738/yr |
| $110,001+ | $27,522/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Finance and Financial Management Services. | Bachelor | $48,745 | |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Bachelor | $46,556 | $23,489 |
| Economics. | Bachelor | $45,918 | |
| Curriculum and Instruction. | Master | $38,289 | |
| English Language and Literature, General. | Bachelor | $35,954 | $27,000 |
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. | Bachelor | $33,459 | $26,681 |
| Physiology, Pathology and Related Sciences. | Bachelor | $32,391 | $27,000 |
| Psychology, General. | Bachelor | $31,038 | $27,000 |
| Social Work. | Bachelor | $30,988 | $25,000 |
| Communication and Media Studies. | Bachelor | $30,228 | $26,500 |
The Risk Factor
67.6% of students at Gordon College graduate within 6 years. A significant share of students finish, but roughly 32% do not complete their degree.
Analysis
Gordon College delivers mixed financial returns with significant variation across majors that makes program choice critical for your investment outcome. The $24,817 annual net price positions this Christian liberal arts college as moderately expensive, while median earnings of $52,119 create a reasonable but not strong payback timeline.
Finance programs lead Gordon's earning potential at $48,745, followed by business administration at $46,556 with notably lower debt loads of $23,489. Economics rounds out the stronger-performing majors at $45,918. These business-focused programs provide your best shot at solid returns given the competitive Boston-area job market within commuting distance.
Education and liberal arts majors face tougher financial math. Curriculum and instruction graduates earn $38,289, while English majors average $35,954 but carry $27,000 in debt. These programs may struggle to justify their costs unless you plan graduate school or have strong family financial support.
Gordon's 67.6% graduation rate creates real completion risk that could leave you with debt but no degree. The 21% aid rate suggests limited need-based assistance, making this school primarily viable for middle to upper-middle-class families who don't qualify for significant aid elsewhere.
You should consider Gordon if you want a Christian education environment and can target its stronger business programs while keeping debt below $25,000. Look elsewhere if you need substantial financial aid, plan to major in liberal arts, or require higher earning potential to justify the investment. The school works best for students with clear career plans in finance or business who value the faith-based community enough to accept moderate rather than strong financial returns.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Gordon College worth the cost for the education you get?
Gordon College's $24,817 annual net price leads to median earnings of $52,119 after 10 years, which is below average for private colleges. With a 67% graduation rate and $26,250 in median debt, the return on investment is modest compared to similar schools.
What are the best paying majors at Gordon College?
Finance graduates from Gordon College earn around $48,745 annually, making it the highest-paying program. Business administration and economics also perform well at $46,556 and $45,918 respectively, while education and English majors earn significantly less.
How much debt do Gordon College graduates typically have?
Gordon College graduates leave with a median debt of $26,250, which is manageable compared to many private colleges. However, graduates earning $35,000-$38,000 in education or English may struggle with loan payments relative to their income.
Does Gordon College provide good financial aid to make it affordable?
Gordon College's net price of $24,817 suggests decent financial aid since the sticker price is higher. The 91% acceptance rate means most students can get in, but the financial aid may not be enough to justify the cost for lower-earning majors.