Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $48,414/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$14,414/yr |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $12,500 |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Doctoral | $102,335 | $79,172 |
| Psychology, General. | Doctoral | $86,867 | $84,513 |
| Education, General. | Doctoral | $70,232 | $72,765 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Bachelor | $60,771 | |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Certificate | $58,673 | $52,946 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Master | $49,990 | $37,054 |
| Education, General. | Master | $47,312 | $36,166 |
| Psychology, General. | Master | $44,542 | $40,548 |
| Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions. | Master | $39,729 | $50,963 |
| Education, General. | Certificate | $38,829 | $42,085 |
Analysis
Northcentral University delivers mixed financial returns that vary dramatically by program choice. The school's overall median debt of $12,500 ranks among the lowest nationally, but median earnings of $48,414 after ten years fall below average for college graduates.
Business Administration emerges as the clear winner financially, with top earners reaching $102,335 annually despite carrying $79,172 in debt. Psychology graduates earn $86,867 but face similarly high debt loads at $84,513. Education majors see more modest returns at $70,232 with $72,765 in debt. The debt-to-income ratios across these programs signal potential repayment challenges for many graduates.
Your biggest financial risk at Northcentral stems from program selection. The wide earnings gap between business and other majors means choosing the wrong field could leave you with limited earning potential relative to peers at comparable schools. The high debt loads in top-earning programs also create vulnerability if you don't complete your degree or struggle to find employment in your field.
Northcentral works financially if you target their strongest business programs and can handle the associated debt burden. The school's online format appeals to working adults who need flexibility, but you should verify that employers in your target market recognize and value degrees from this institution.
With only 25% of students receiving aid, merit scholarships appear limited. Your best cost strategy involves completing your degree efficiently to minimize total borrowing and choosing programs with proven earnings potential. Skip this school if you're considering lower-earning majors or need substantial financial aid to make college affordable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Northcentral University worth the cost compared to other schools?
Northcentral University graduates earn $48,414 annually after 10 years, which is below the national average for college graduates. The relatively low median debt of $12,500 helps offset the lower earnings, but the return on investment remains modest compared to higher-earning programs at other institutions.
What are the highest paying programs at Northcentral University?
Business Administration graduates from certain programs can earn over $100,000, with one track reaching $102,335 annually. Psychology graduates typically earn around $86,867, while Education majors average $70,232. However, other business tracks show significantly lower earnings in the $58,000-$60,000 range.
How much debt do Northcentral University students typically graduate with?
The median debt for Northcentral University graduates is $12,500, which is relatively low compared to many universities. This lower debt burden makes the financial risk more manageable, even with the school's below-average graduate earnings.
Should I attend Northcentral University for a business degree?
Northcentral University's business programs show wide earning variation, from $58,673 to $102,335 depending on the specific track. Research the exact program carefully, as some business concentrations significantly outperform others in terms of graduate earnings.