At $8,992/yr net price, Le Moyne-Owen College graduates earn $35,594/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $1,594/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $8,992 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $35,968 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $35,594/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$1,594/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 22.6 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 24.7% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $28,070 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $8,457/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $9,131/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $9,198/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $9,342/yr |
The Risk Factor
24.7% of students at Le Moyne-Owen College 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
Le Moyne-Owen College presents a mixed financial picture with concerning graduation rates that significantly impact your return on investment. With only 25% of students completing their degrees, three-quarters of enrollees never reach the point where they can leverage their education in the job market.
The low net price of $8,992 annually helps offset some financial risk, but the 60% retention rate signals that many students struggle academically or financially before graduating. Your median debt of $28,070 becomes problematic when paired with post-graduation earnings that start around $35,594 - creating a challenging debt-to-income ratio for the minority who do complete their programs.
Memphis's job market offers opportunities in healthcare, logistics, and business services, but Le Moyne-Owen's small size limits program variety and employer recognition compared to larger regional competitors. The college's historically black college and university (HBCU) status provides networking advantages within certain professional communities, particularly for students pursuing careers in education, social work, or nonprofit sectors.
You should consider Le Moyne-Owen if you need an affordable option with small class sizes and qualify for substantial need-based aid - 71% of students receive financial assistance. However, if you're uncertain about your academic preparedness or lack strong support systems, the low completion rates suggest significant risk of leaving with debt but no degree.
Students with clear career goals in fields where HBCU connections matter, strong academic foundations, and family or community support systems represent the best financial fit. Those seeking strong programs, extensive research opportunities, or backup options should look at institutions with higher graduation rates and stronger alumni networks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Le Moyne-Owen College worth the cost for most students?
Le Moyne-Owen College has concerning value metrics with a 25% graduation rate and median earnings of $35,594 ten years after enrollment. The low net price of $8,992 helps offset poor outcomes, but most students don't complete their degree.
What is the job market like for Le Moyne-Owen College graduates?
Graduates earn around $35,594 annually ten years after starting college, which is below the national average for college graduates. The low graduation rate means many students leave without a degree and still carry debt.
How much debt do Le Moyne-Owen College students typically graduate with?
Students who complete their degree graduate with a median debt of $28,070. Given the low average earnings of $35,594, this creates a challenging debt-to-income ratio for many graduates.
Which programs at Le Moyne-Owen College offer the best return on investment?
Specific program outcomes aren't widely reported, but the overall low graduation rate and below-average earnings suggest most programs struggle with job market preparation. Students should carefully research employment rates and starting salaries for their intended major before enrolling.