At $12,091/yr net price, Nicholls State University graduates earn $45,454/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $11,454/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $12,091 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $48,364 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $45,454/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$11,454/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 4.2 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 54.3% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $22,675 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $8,822/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $10,582/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $12,659/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $15,504/yr |
| $110,001+ | $15,799/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. | Master | $89,841 | $48,211 |
| Engineering-Related Technologies. | Bachelor | $73,446 | |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Bachelor | $60,030 | $24,738 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Master | $56,641 | $19,884 |
| Mining and Petroleum Technologies/Technicians. | Bachelor | $52,733 | $17,417 |
| Mining and Petroleum Technologies/Technicians. | Associate | $52,107 | |
| Educational Administration and Supervision. | Master | $47,046 | $19,636 |
| Curriculum and Instruction. | Master | $45,500 | $23,725 |
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. | Master | $45,383 | |
| Student Counseling and Personnel Services. | Master | $42,682 |
The Risk Factor
54.3% of students at Nicholls 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
Nicholls State University offers solid financial value for students who choose the right programs, with a low net price of $12,091 annually and manageable debt loads. The nursing program stands out as the clear financial winner, with graduates earning nearly $90,000 within 10 years. Business administration and petroleum technologies also deliver strong returns relative to the modest debt required.
Your biggest financial risk at Nicholls lies in program selection. While nursing and technical fields pay well, the overall median earnings of $45,454 suggest many programs struggle in Louisiana's challenging job market. The 54% graduation rate means nearly half of students never finish their degrees, making program choice and academic commitment critical to your investment success.
This school works best financially if you're Louisiana-focused and career-practical. The nursing program's $48,211 debt load pays for itself quickly given the earning potential, while business and petroleum tech graduates face minimal debt for decent regional salaries. Avoid programs not listed among the top earners unless you have specific career plans that justify lower starting salaries.
Financial aid reaches only 35% of students, limiting merit opportunities for middle-income families. Your best cost strategy involves choosing high-earning programs and finishing quickly to maximize the low tuition advantage. Students seeking strong degrees or planning to work in high-cost markets should consider other options, but those targeting practical careers in Louisiana will find Nicholls delivers strong value for the price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Nicholls State University worth the cost?
Nicholls State University offers decent value for in-state students with a net price of $12,091 and median debt of $22,675. However, the 10-year earnings average of $45,454 is below national standards, and the 54% graduation rate means nearly half of students don't finish.
What are the best paying majors at Nicholls State University?
Nursing programs at Nicholls State University lead earnings at nearly $90,000 annually, followed by engineering-related technologies at $73,446. Business and petroleum technology programs also show solid returns, while other majors may struggle to justify the investment.
How much debt do Nicholls State University graduates have?
Nicholls State University graduates carry a median debt of $22,675, which is manageable compared to many schools. With 10-year earnings averaging $45,454, graduates typically face a reasonable debt-to-income ratio if they complete their degree.
Does Nicholls State University have good job placement after graduation?
Nicholls State University's 54% graduation rate indicates completion challenges, but nursing and technical program graduates see strong earnings potential. The school's location in Louisiana's petrochemical corridor helps graduates in relevant fields, though overall career outcomes vary significantly by major.