At $21,596/yr net price, Lourdes University graduates earn $48,150/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $14,150/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $21,596 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $86,384 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $48,150/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$14,150/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 6.1 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 38.1% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $27,000 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $19,638/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $19,602/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $20,610/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $24,654/yr |
| $110,001+ | $21,690/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 | $209,569 | $109,952 |
| Bioethics/Medical Ethics. | Master | $80,858 | |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Bachelor | $58,249 | $28,151 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Master | $55,964 | |
| Human Resources Management and Services. | Master | $48,432 | |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Bachelor | $45,198 | $27,000 |
| Education, Other. | Master | $44,649 | |
| Human Resources Management and Services. | Bachelor | $44,384 | |
| Accounting and Related Services. | Bachelor | $41,937 | |
| Social Work. | Bachelor | $37,088 |
The Risk Factor
38.1% of students at Lourdes 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
Lourdes University offers mixed financial returns that depend heavily on your program choice. The nursing programs represent the clear financial winners, with advanced nursing graduates earning over $200,000 annually, though you'll carry substantial debt of nearly $110,000. The standard nursing track provides a more balanced outcome at $58,249 with manageable debt of $28,151.
The 38% graduation rate creates significant financial risk. With nearly two-thirds of students failing to complete their degrees, you face real odds of carrying debt without the credential needed for career advancement. The 64% retention rate suggests academic struggles begin early.
Business and human resources programs generate modest returns around $48,000-$56,000, barely exceeding the overall median of $48,150. Given the $21,596 annual cost, these programs offer questionable value compared to less expensive alternatives.
This school works best if you're committed to nursing and confident in your academic preparation. The nursing program's track record justifies the investment, particularly for advanced practice roles. However, if you're uncertain about your major or struggle academically, the low completion rates make Lourdes financially dangerous.
Only 27% of students receive financial aid, suggesting limited institutional support for affordability. Merit scholarships appear scarce based on the aid distribution. Your best financial strategy involves securing external funding or considering the nursing program specifically. For other majors, community college transfers or state universities likely provide better value given Lourdes' completion challenges and modest earnings outcomes outside healthcare.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lourdes University worth the cost?
Lourdes University's value depends heavily on your major. Nursing graduates earn strong salaries that justify the cost, but other programs show weaker returns given the $21,596 annual net price and $27,000 median debt.
What is the ROI for Lourdes University graduates?
Lourdes graduates earn a median of $48,150 ten years after graduation, which is below average for college graduates. The nursing program offers much better earnings potential than business or general programs.
Should I attend Lourdes University for nursing?
Yes, Lourdes University's nursing programs show strong ROI with some specializations earning over $200,000. The school's nursing focus and clinical partnerships make it a solid choice for healthcare careers.
What are the risks of attending Lourdes University?
Lourdes has a low 38% graduation rate, meaning many students leave without a degree but with debt. Students in non-nursing programs face higher financial risk given weaker earning outcomes.