At $26,881/yr net price, Manhattan College graduates earn $86,316/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $52,316/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $26,881 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $107,524 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $86,316/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$52,316/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 2.1 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 66.0% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $26,000 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $24,024/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $25,103/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $27,042/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $28,655/yr |
| $110,001+ | $29,209/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Civil Engineering. | Master | $83,848 | |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Master | $81,498 | $34,210 |
| Mechanical Engineering. | Master | $71,575 | |
| Civil Engineering. | Bachelor | $71,351 | $27,000 |
| Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering. | Bachelor | $68,219 | $22,000 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Bachelor | $67,660 | $26,500 |
| Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions. | Bachelor | $67,660 | $26,000 |
| Chemical Engineering. | Bachelor | $67,324 | $26,026 |
| Accounting and Related Services. | Master | $65,320 | $20,500 |
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | Bachelor | $64,493 | $25,000 |
The Risk Factor
66.0% of students at Manhattan College graduate within 6 years. A significant share of students finish, but roughly 34% do not complete their degree.
Analysis
Manhattan College delivers solid financial returns with median earnings of $86,316 ten years after graduation, well above the national average for private colleges. The $26,881 net price paired with relatively manageable debt loads makes this a financially reasonable choice for most students.
Engineering programs drive the strongest returns here. Civil engineering graduates earn $83,848 while carrying reasonable debt, and electrical engineering majors graduate with just $22,000 in loans while earning $68,219. Business administration pays well at $81,498 but comes with higher debt at $34,210, making the return less attractive than engineering paths.
The school's location in the New York metro area benefits graduates significantly. Engineering and business majors tap into one of the country's strongest job markets, explaining why even the lower-earning programs here still produce decent salaries.
You face two main financial risks at Manhattan College. The 66% graduation rate means one in three students never finish, leaving them with debt but no degree. The 77% retention rate also signals that many students struggle academically or financially during their first year.
Manhattan College works best financially if you can handle the academic rigor and plan to study engineering or business. Students interested in liberal arts or undecided majors should consider less expensive options, as the high private school costs may not pay off in lower-earning fields.
With only 31% of students receiving aid, merit scholarships appear limited. Focus on demonstrating strong academic credentials to maximize your aid package, as full-pay students will struggle to justify the total cost without significant earning potential.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Manhattan College worth the cost for the ROI?
Manhattan College graduates earn $86,316 annually after 10 years, which is solid but not exceptional for the $26,881 yearly cost. The school's 66% graduation rate is concerning and suggests many students don't complete their degrees.
What are the best paying programs at Manhattan College?
Civil and mechanical engineering programs at Manhattan College lead to the highest salaries, with civil engineering graduates earning around $83,848. Business administration graduates earn about $81,498, making these the strongest ROI programs.
How much student debt do Manhattan College graduates have?
Manhattan College graduates have a median debt of $26,000, which is manageable given the average starting salaries in engineering and business. However, students in lower-paying majors may struggle with debt repayment.
Does Manhattan College provide good financial aid to reduce costs?
Manhattan College's net price of $26,881 suggests decent financial aid, bringing costs down from the full sticker price. With an 82% acceptance rate, the school likely offers aid to attract students but may not be as generous as more selective institutions.