At $10,089/yr net price, Morehead State University graduates earn $43,197/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $9,197/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $10,089 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $40,356 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $43,197/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$9,197/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 4.4 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 47.7% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $22,250 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $7,561/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $7,152/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $9,920/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $13,796/yr |
| $110,001+ | $14,197/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business/Commerce, General. | Master | $61,516 | $26,654 |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Bachelor | $59,919 | $25,487 |
| Curriculum and Instruction. | Certificate | $57,318 | |
| Engineering-Related Fields. | Bachelor | $57,318 | |
| Engineering Technology, General. | Bachelor | $56,544 | $27,000 |
| Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions. | Bachelor | $55,512 | $21,589 |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Associate | $54,430 | $21,625 |
| Management Information Systems and Services. | Bachelor | $46,673 | |
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | Bachelor | $41,565 | |
| Political Science and Government. | Bachelor | $41,193 |
The Risk Factor
47.7% of students at Morehead State 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
Morehead State University delivers mixed financial returns that heavily depend on your program choice. The $10,089 annual net price makes this one of Kentucky's more affordable public universities, but the 47% graduation rate means nearly half of students never finish their degree.
Business and nursing majors see strong returns, with business graduates earning $61,516 annually against $26,654 in debt and nursing graduates making $59,919 with $25,487 in debt. Engineering technology also pays well at $56,544, though debt loads run higher at $27,000. These programs justify the investment for most students.
The bigger concern is program completion. Your financial risk increases significantly if you become part of the 53% who don't graduate, especially given the 69% retention rate suggests many students struggle early. The median debt of $22,250 becomes much harder to manage without a degree.
This school works best if you're pursuing business, nursing, or engineering programs and have strong academic preparation to avoid becoming a dropout statistic. The low net price gives you room for error that more expensive schools don't offer. However, if you're unsure about your major or have academic concerns, the graduation rates suggest you might struggle to complete your degree.
Only 29% of students receive aid, indicating either limited need-based support or a student body that doesn't qualify for much assistance. Merit scholarships exist but aren't widespread enough to significantly alter the financial equation for most students.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Morehead State University worth the cost?
Morehead State offers decent value with a low net price of $10,089 annually and median debt of $22,250, but graduates earn just $43,197 ten years out. The low graduation rate of 48% means nearly half of students don't finish, making it risky for many applicants.
What are the best paying majors at Morehead State University?
Business and nursing programs at Morehead State lead earnings at around $60,000-62,000 annually. Education and engineering technology graduates earn in the mid-50s, while other programs typically fall well below the university average.
How much student debt do Morehead State University graduates have?
Morehead State graduates carry $22,250 in median debt, which is manageable given the school's low sticker price. However, with starting salaries around $43,000, debt payments will still consume a significant portion of graduate income.
Does Morehead State University have good financial aid?
Morehead State keeps costs reasonable with an average net price of $10,089 after aid. The school's 84% acceptance rate and affordable pricing make it accessible, though the low graduation rate suggests many students struggle to complete their degrees.