At $15,922/yr net price, Magdalen College graduates earn $35,809/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $1,809/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $15,922 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $63,688 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $35,809/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$1,809/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 35.2 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 53.3% |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $16,336/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $13,011/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $17,447/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $13,911/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. | Bachelor | $23,649 | $25,164 |
The Risk Factor
53.3% of students at Magdalen College graduate within 6 years. More than half of students finish, but the dropout rate is a real factor in whether this investment pays off.
Analysis
Magdalen College delivers poor financial returns that make it difficult to justify the investment. With median earnings of just $35,809 ten years after graduation and a graduation rate below 54%, your chances of seeing positive ROI are slim.
The college's dominant program, Liberal Arts and Sciences, produces graduates earning only $23,649 annually while carrying $25,164 in debt. This means your annual loan payments could easily consume 15-20% of your gross income, creating financial strain that persists for years. The low earnings reflect both the general nature of the program and New Hampshire's limited job market for liberal arts graduates.
Your biggest risk at Magdalen is the high likelihood of not finishing. With nearly half of students failing to graduate, you could end up with debt but no degree. Even if you do graduate, the weak earning potential means you'll struggle to build wealth or achieve financial stability compared to graduates from stronger programs elsewhere.
This school makes financial sense only if you're paying cash or receiving substantial aid that brings your actual costs well below the $15,922 net price. If you need career preparation or strong earning potential, look elsewhere. Magdalen works best for students who can afford to prioritize personal enrichment over financial returns and have family resources to support them after graduation.
The 46% of students receiving aid suggests some scholarship opportunities exist, but the consistently weak outcomes indicate even aided students struggle financially post-graduation. Your money and time would generate better returns at schools with stronger career programs or regional universities with better job placement records.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Magdalen College worth the cost compared to other schools?
Magdalen College graduates earn $35,809 ten years after graduation, which is below average for college graduates nationally. With a net price of $15,922 per year, the return on investment is modest but the lower cost helps limit debt risk.
What are the highest paying majors at Magdalen College?
The school's main program is Liberal Arts and Sciences, which leads to average earnings of $23,649. This is significantly lower than typical starting salaries for college graduates in most fields.
How much financial aid does Magdalen College actually give students?
The average net price is $15,922 per year after aid, which suggests moderate financial assistance. However, with a 53% graduation rate, many students don't complete their degrees to see any return on this investment.
Should I attend Magdalen College if I'm worried about student debt?
The relatively low annual cost of $15,922 means less debt than many colleges, but the low graduate earnings of $35,809 make loan repayment challenging. The 53% graduation rate also means high risk of debt without a degree.