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 gives you a strong financial return. A $92,538 median ten-year earnings against roughly $24,250 in median debt means you carry less than a third of a year's pay in loans, which is a comfortable ratio and easy to service on a Boston-area salary.
Your major choice drives most of the gap. Computer and Information Sciences is the clear winner, paying near $90,000 while leaving you with the lowest debt of the listed programs. Nursing follows, and Boston's dense hospital system gives that degree a reliable local market. The problem shows up on the business and communication side: Business Administration, Finance, and Communication and Media Studies all pay under $56,000, and Finance actually carries the highest debt of any program here. You would borrow the most for one of the weakest payoffs, so think hard before financing a finance degree at full cost.
The risk is spread within the school, not across it. Two programs pay well and three cluster near $50,000 in one of the most expensive metro areas in the country. If your rent is Boston rent and your salary is $49,868 from the communications track, the math gets tight fast even with modest debt.
This school fits you if you are heading into computing or nursing. Those paths justify the private-nonprofit price and land you in a job market built for them. If you want business, finance, or media, you can get similar starting salaries at a lower-cost school and keep the debt down.
On net price, families at lower incomes should compare offers directly, since the school's programs vary widely in what they return. A high sticker price is worth it for the computing and nursing tracks. for the sub-$56,000 majors, a cheaper option protects you more.
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.