At $16,929/yr net price, Henderson State University graduates earn $43,459/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $9,459/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $16,929 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $67,716 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $43,459/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$9,459/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 7.2 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 38.0% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $19,500 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $15,236/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $15,087/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $19,426/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $17,869/yr |
| $110,001+ | $19,082/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business/Commerce, General. | Master | $42,682 | |
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas. | Bachelor | $38,289 | $25,559 |
| Business/Commerce, General. | Bachelor | $34,420 | $17,512 |
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. | Bachelor | $32,711 | $24,978 |
| Accounting and Related Services. | Bachelor | $31,305 | |
| Health and Physical Education/Fitness. | Master | $30,409 | |
| Psychology, General. | Bachelor | $28,236 | $16,750 |
| Social Work. | Bachelor | $26,353 | $21,500 |
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. | Bachelor | $25,580 | $22,500 |
The Risk Factor
38.0% of students at Henderson State 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
Henderson State University delivers poor financial returns that make it a risky investment for most students. With median earnings of $43,459 ten years after graduation and a graduation rate of just 38%, your chances of completing your degree and earning a solid return are limited.
The school's strongest programs financially are in business and commerce, with graduates earning around $42,682 annually. However, even these top earners fall well below national averages for business graduates. Teacher education programs dominate the offerings but saddle you with higher debt loads ($24,000-$25,000) while delivering starting salaries in the low $30,000s. Accounting graduates fare worst among major programs, earning just $31,305 despite completing a typically lucrative field of study.
The 59% retention rate signals that many students struggle academically or financially during their first year. Combined with the low graduation rate, you face significant risk of accumulating debt without earning a degree. The median debt of $19,500 appears manageable but becomes problematic when paired with below-average earning potential.
Henderson State works best for Arkansas residents planning to stay in the region, particularly if you can secure substantial financial aid or merit scholarships. The school serves nearly half its students with aid, so aggressive pursuit of grants and scholarships is essential. Students from middle-class families who qualify for minimal aid should seriously consider alternatives.
If you're set on education or business, stronger regional options exist that offer better job placement and earning potential. Henderson State's low cost provides some protection, but the combination of weak graduation rates and modest earnings makes this a high-risk choice for most prospective students.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Henderson State University worth the cost?
Henderson State University's ROI is below average, with graduates earning $43,459 ten years after enrollment while carrying typical debt of $19,500. The low 38% graduation rate means many students leave without a degree but may still have debt.
What are the highest paying majors at Henderson State University?
Business/Commerce graduates from Henderson State earn around $42,682 annually, making it the highest-paying program. Education majors typically earn $32,000-38,000, which is low considering the degree requirements for teaching positions.
How much debt do Henderson State University graduates typically have?
Henderson State graduates carry a median debt of $19,500, which is manageable compared to many schools. However, with average earnings of $43,459, graduates spend about 45% of their income on loan payments using standard repayment terms.
Does Henderson State University have good financial aid?
Henderson State's net price of $16,929 per year is relatively affordable for a four-year degree. The school appears to provide decent financial aid, though the low graduation rate suggests many students still struggle to complete their programs.