At $23,594/yr net price, Marian University graduates earn $58,759/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $24,759/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $23,594 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $94,376 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $58,759/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$24,759/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 3.8 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 60.9% |
| 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 | $24,435/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $20,235/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $22,711/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $25,398/yr |
| $110,001+ | $24,074/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. | Bachelor | $58,464 | $27,000 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Bachelor | $47,595 | $26,500 |
| Accounting and Related Services. | Bachelor | $47,260 | $27,500 |
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. | Master | $45,383 | $20,500 |
| Marketing. | Bachelor | $44,590 | $27,000 |
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. | Bachelor | $37,808 | $27,000 |
| Psychology, General. | Bachelor | $27,439 | $24,625 |
| Health and Physical Education/Fitness. | Bachelor | $25,967 | $27,000 |
The Risk Factor
60.9% of students at Marian University graduate within 6 years. A significant share of students finish, but roughly 39% do not complete their degree.
Analysis
Marian University delivers solid financial returns for nursing students but weaker outcomes for most other majors. The school's nursing program generates nearly $60,000 in median earnings, making it the clear financial winner despite carrying $27,000 in debt.
Business and accounting graduates earn in the mid-40s, which barely justifies the $26,500-27,500 debt loads when you factor in the time value of money. Education majors face the weakest financial outlook, earning just $45,383 against $20,500 in debt in a field known for limited salary growth. Marketing graduates get the worst deal, earning $44,590 while carrying the full $27,000 debt burden.
The school's 61% graduation rate creates additional financial risk. Nearly four in ten students leave without a degree but often with debt. The 77% retention rate suggests many students recognize early that Marian may not be the right fit.
You should consider Marian if you plan to study nursing and value the smaller class sizes that come with a private education. The nursing program's strong regional connections in Indianapolis healthcare systems provide solid job placement opportunities.
Skip Marian if you're interested in business, education, or marketing unless you receive substantial merit aid. The school's limited financial aid reach means most students pay close to full price. Only 23% of students receive institutional aid, suggesting merit scholarships are highly competitive.
Given the $23,594 annual net price, you need strong family financial resources or strong academic credentials to make most programs worthwhile. The Indianapolis job market supports healthcare careers well but offers limited premium salaries for other fields that would justify the private school premium.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Marian University worth the cost for the ROI?
Marian University graduates earn a median of $58,759 ten years after graduation, which is reasonable given the $23,594 annual net price. The nursing programs offer the strongest return on investment with graduates earning around $58,464, while business and education majors see lower starting salaries in the mid-40s.
What are the best paying majors at Marian University?
Nursing programs at Marian University provide the highest earnings potential, with graduates making around $58,464 annually. Business administration graduates earn about $47,595, while education majors typically start around $45,383.
How much debt do Marian University students typically graduate with?
Marian University students graduate with a median debt of $27,000, which is manageable compared to the national average. However, the 61% graduation rate means many students take on debt without completing their degree.
Is Marian University's graduation rate a red flag for prospective students?
The 61% graduation rate at Marian University is below the national average and indicates significant risk for students who may not complete their degree. Students should carefully consider their academic preparedness and financial situation before enrolling.