At $21,148/yr net price, Houghton University graduates earn $46,721/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $12,721/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $21,148 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $84,592 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $46,721/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$12,721/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 6.6 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 64.7% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $25,250 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $17,213/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $17,292/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $20,133/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $22,275/yr |
| $110,001+ | $25,436/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Bachelor | $38,289 | $21,450 |
| Communication and Media Studies. | Bachelor | $24,872 |
The Risk Factor
64.7% of students at Houghton University graduate within 6 years. A significant share of students finish, but roughly 35% do not complete their degree.
Analysis
Houghton University delivers weak financial returns that struggle to justify its costs. Your median earnings of $46,721 ten years after graduation barely exceed what many two-year programs produce, while you'll pay over $21,000 annually and graduate with $25,250 in debt.
Business Administration offers the strongest earning potential at $38,289, though even this flagship program underperforms compared to business degrees at regional competitors. Communication and Media Studies produces particularly poor outcomes at just $24,872 annually. The limited program variety at this small liberal arts college restricts your career flexibility in western New York's constrained job market.
The 64% graduation rate signals retention problems that increase your risk of debt without degree completion. Only 34% of students receive need-based aid, suggesting limited financial support for middle-income families who don't qualify for assistance but struggle with the high net price.
Houghton works financially only if you're pursuing ministry or nonprofit careers where salary expectations align with these modest returns, or if your family can comfortably afford the costs without borrowing. The school's Christian mission attracts students who prioritize values alignment over earnings potential.
You should look elsewhere if you need strong earning potential to justify college costs, want diverse program options, or require substantial financial aid. Regional public universities and community colleges offer better financial outcomes for most career paths available in this rural market.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Houghton University worth the cost compared to other colleges?
Houghton University graduates earn $46,721 after 10 years, which is below the national average for college graduates. With a net price of $21,148 annually and typical debt of $25,250, the return on investment is modest but manageable for most students.
What programs at Houghton University have the best job prospects?
Business Administration and Management graduates earn around $38,289, making it the strongest program financially. Communication and Media Studies graduates earn significantly less at $24,872, which may not justify the cost of attendance.
How much student debt do Houghton University graduates typically have?
The median debt at graduation is $25,250, which is reasonable compared to many private colleges. However, with starting earnings around $46,721, graduates may face tight budgets in their first few years after college.
Does Houghton University provide good financial aid to reduce costs?
The net price of $21,148 suggests decent financial aid, bringing costs down from the full sticker price. However, the relatively low post-graduation earnings mean students should carefully evaluate their program choice and career goals before enrolling.