At $20,313/yr net price, Mars Hill University graduates earn $44,781/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $10,781/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $20,313 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $81,252 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $44,781/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$10,781/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 7.5 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 41.9% |
| 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 | $17,372/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $17,337/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $20,703/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $22,308/yr |
| $110,001+ | $24,291/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. | Master | $41,205 | |
| Special Education and Teaching. | Bachelor | $38,289 | |
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. | Bachelor | $36,437 | |
| Social Work. | Bachelor | $33,726 | $26,000 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Bachelor | $32,391 | $21,998 |
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas. | Bachelor | $29,685 | |
| Biology, General. | Bachelor | $26,739 | $26,040 |
| Psychology, General. | Bachelor | $25,194 | $27,000 |
The Risk Factor
41.9% of students at Mars Hill University 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
Mars Hill University delivers weak financial returns that make it a risky investment for most students. With median 10-year earnings of $44,781 and a net price exceeding $20,000 annually, you're paying premium private school costs for below-average career outcomes.
The graduation rate of 42% means nearly six out of ten students never finish their degree, making this an expensive gamble. The 61% retention rate signals that many students recognize the poor value proposition early and transfer elsewhere.
Even Mars Hill's strongest programs underperform financially. Teacher education graduates earn $41,205, well below what you could expect from education programs at state universities. Business administration majors earn just $32,391 despite carrying nearly $22,000 in debt. Social work graduates face the worst combination with $33,726 earnings and $26,000 in debt.
The school's rural North Carolina location limits internship and job opportunities, particularly problematic given that many programs prepare students for careers that pay better in urban markets. You'll likely need to relocate after graduation, adding moving costs to your existing debt burden.
Mars Hill might work financially if you receive substantial merit aid that brings your net cost below $15,000 annually, or if you're committed to teaching or social work in rural North Carolina where the lower cost of living somewhat offsets the modest salaries. Otherwise, you'll find better ROI at regional public universities or community colleges that offer similar programs at lower costs with stronger job placement records.
The high percentage of students receiving financial aid suggests the published sticker price rarely applies, but even discounted, the value proposition remains questionable given the poor completion rates and limited earning potential.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Mars Hill University worth the cost?
Mars Hill University's return on investment is below average, with graduates earning $44,781 ten years after enrollment while carrying $26,000 in median debt. The 42% graduation rate means most students don't finish their degree.
What are the best paying majors at Mars Hill University?
Teacher education programs at Mars Hill University offer the highest earnings at around $41,000, followed by special education at $38,000. Business and social work graduates earn significantly less at $32,000-34,000.
How much student debt do Mars Hill University graduates have?
Mars Hill University graduates carry $26,000 in median debt, which is manageable compared to many private schools. However, with starting salaries around $45,000, debt payments may still strain budgets.
Does Mars Hill University have good financial aid?
Mars Hill University's net price of $20,313 suggests decent financial aid for a private college. The aid helps offset the sticker price, but students should still expect significant borrowing.