At $8,364/yr net price, Indiana University-South Bend graduates earn $44,947/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $10,947/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $8,364 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $33,456 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $44,947/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$10,947/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 3.1 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 35.7% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $21,355 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $4,347/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $5,039/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $9,272/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $14,551/yr |
| $110,001+ | $15,174/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Master | $81,997 | $37,451 |
| Business/Commerce, General. | Master | $69,535 | |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Bachelor | $54,174 | $18,905 |
| Student Counseling and Personnel Services. | Master | $50,856 | |
| Computer Science. | Bachelor | $50,606 | |
| Dental Support Services and Allied Professions. | Bachelor | $48,198 | $21,500 |
| Public Administration. | Master | $47,260 | |
| Social Work. | Master | $43,319 | $31,271 |
| Business/Commerce, General. | Bachelor | $41,711 | $19,949 |
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas. | Bachelor | $37,856 | $25,784 |
The Risk Factor
35.7% of students at Indiana University-South Bend 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
Indiana University-South Bend offers solid financial value for specific career paths, but your program choice makes all the difference. The nursing program stands out as the clear winner, with graduates earning over $80,000 annually despite higher debt loads of $37,000. Business majors also see strong returns at nearly $70,000, making these two programs the school's best financial bets.
The low graduation rate of 36% presents a significant financial risk. If you don't finish your degree, you'll carry debt without the earning power to justify it. The 67% retention rate suggests many students struggle to stay enrolled, which could signal academic or financial challenges that might affect you.
Computer science graduates earn around $50,600, which lags behind what you'd typically see at stronger tech programs. Given South Bend's limited tech sector, you might find better opportunities and higher salaries by choosing a school in a major metropolitan area.
This school works best for students planning careers in nursing or business who want to stay in the Midwest. The low net price of $8,364 makes it accessible, and only 41% of students need aid, suggesting reasonable costs overall. Your debt load will likely stay manageable at around $21,000.
Avoid Indiana University-South Bend if you're pursuing fields outside nursing and business, or if you need a more supportive academic environment. The completion rates suggest you'll need strong self-motivation to graduate. Students who thrive in smaller settings and can handle independent learning will find the most success here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Indiana University-South Bend worth the cost?
Indiana University-South Bend offers strong value with a low net price of $8,364 per year and median debt of only $21,355. However, the 36% graduation rate means many students don't finish, which significantly hurts ROI for those who don't complete their degree.
What are the highest paying majors at Indiana University-South Bend?
Nursing programs at Indiana University-South Bend lead to the highest earnings, with some nursing graduates earning over $80,000 annually. Business graduates average $69,535, while computer science graduates earn around $50,606.
How much debt do Indiana University-South Bend graduates typically have?
Indiana University-South Bend graduates have a median debt of $21,355, which is manageable given the low cost of attendance. The affordable tuition helps keep debt levels reasonable compared to many four-year universities.
What is the job market like for Indiana University-South Bend graduates?
Indiana University-South Bend graduates earn a median of $44,947 ten years after graduation, which is below the national average. Nursing and business programs show much stronger earning potential than the overall graduate average.