Student Outcomes
- Graduation Rate (4-year)
- 45.2%
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 44.2%
- Retention Rate
- 62.3%
- Median Earnings (10 years after entry)
- $43,415
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $17,375
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 10:1
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 55.3%
- Estimated Monthly Loan Payment
- $184/mo
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Bachelor | $63,935 | $19,339 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Bachelor | $44,649 | $17,605 |
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. | Bachelor | $34,393 | $15,000 |
| Criminal Justice and Corrections. | Bachelor | $28,816 | $14,050 |
| Psychology, General. | Bachelor | $23,456 | $25,624 |
| Communication and Media Studies. | Bachelor | $21,052 | |
| Zoology/Animal Biology. | Bachelor | $20,596 | $23,000 |
Outcomes Overview
Lees-McRae graduates earn a median of $43,415 ten years after graduation, creating a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 40% with median debt of $17,375. Monthly loan payments of $184 consume about 5% of typical graduate income. The college's focus on outdoor recreation and experiential learning prepares students for careers in adventure tourism, environmental education, and outdoor recreation management. With a 94.5% employment rate, most graduates find work quickly after completion. The loan repayment rate of 55.26% falls below national averages, suggesting some financial challenges. Given the modest earnings potential and specialized career paths, Lees-McRae offers an average return on investment for students passionate about outdoor careers.