Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $92,538/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$58,538/yr |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $24,250 |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Doctoral | $133,543 | |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Master | $110,878 | $57,068 |
| Business/Commerce, General. | Master | $101,072 | $47,834 |
| Taxation. | Master | $100,518 | |
| Engineering, General. | Master | $94,408 | |
| Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Administration. | Master | $92,124 | $29,042 |
| Medical Illustration and Informatics. | Master | $91,744 | |
| Finance and Financial Management Services. | Master | $89,415 | $36,150 |
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | Bachelor | $89,413 | $22,583 |
| Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods. | Master | $87,604 | $38,957 |
Analysis
Northeastern University Professional Programs delivers strong financial returns with a median earnings figure of $92,538 that places graduates well above national averages for most career fields. The relatively low median debt of $24,250 creates a favorable debt-to-income ratio that makes loan payments manageable for most graduates.
Nursing programs stand out as the clear financial winners, with registered nursing graduates earning $133,543 annually in the top-paying track. Even the nursing program with higher debt loads still produces graduates earning over $110,000, making the $57,068 debt burden reasonable. Business and taxation programs also generate solid returns, with business graduates earning just over $100,000 against moderate debt of $47,834.
The major financial risk lies in the extremely low financial aid participation rate of just 4.28% of students. This suggests you will likely pay close to full tuition costs, making this school primarily viable for students who can afford the upfront investment or secure external funding sources.
Northeastern Professional Programs works best for working professionals and career changers who can leverage Boston's strong job market in healthcare, finance, and technology. The school makes particular sense if you are targeting nursing or business roles where the regional salary premiums justify the investment.
You should look elsewhere if you need substantial financial aid or are considering lower-earning fields not represented in their top programs. The limited aid availability means this school functions as a premium option that requires significant financial resources upfront.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Northeastern University Professional Programs worth the cost?
With 10-year earnings of $92,538 and median debt of $24,250, Northeastern Professional Programs offers solid ROI. The relatively low debt burden compared to earnings makes it financially viable for most graduates.
What are the highest paying programs at Northeastern University Professional Programs?
Nursing programs lead with $133,543 average earnings, followed by general business at $101,072. Engineering graduates earn around $94,408, which is close to the school average.
How much student debt do Northeastern University Professional Programs graduates have?
Median debt is $24,250, which is manageable given the earning potential. This debt-to-income ratio allows most graduates to pay off loans without financial strain.
Are Northeastern University Professional Programs degrees worth it for career changers?
Yes, especially for nursing and business programs where earnings justify the investment. The professional focus and relatively low debt make it practical for adults switching careers.