Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $74,576/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$40,576/yr |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 31.5% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $25,000 |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Master | $78,074 | $51,250 |
| Public Administration. | Master | $76,460 | |
| Special Education and Teaching. | Master | $61,020 | |
| Education, General. | Master | $60,094 | |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Bachelor | $58,221 | $25,493 |
| Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology. | Master | $48,432 | $81,798 |
| Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions. | Master | $43,128 | $90,921 |
| Communication and Media Studies. | Bachelor | $39,729 | |
| Human Services, General. | Bachelor | $38,289 | |
| Psychology, General. | Bachelor | $30,228 | $26,850 |
The Risk Factor
31.5% of students at Notre Dame de Namur University graduate within 6 years. Fewer than half of students complete their degree. If you don't graduate, the financial investment may not pay off.
Analysis
Notre Dame de Namur University delivers weak financial returns that should give you serious pause. With median post-graduation earnings of $74,576 and a troubling 31.5% graduation rate, the majority of students who enroll here never finish their degree.
Business Administration offers the strongest earning potential at $78,074 annually, but carries steep debt loads of $51,250 that will eat into your take-home pay for years. The lower-debt Business Administration track produces significantly lower earnings of $58,221, highlighting how program selection within the same major affects your financial outcome. Education majors face particularly challenging prospects, with Special Education and General Education graduates earning around $60,000 while entering a field known for limited salary growth.
The low graduation rate represents your biggest financial risk. If you struggle academically or need substantial support to complete your degree, this school's track record suggests you may not finish at all, leaving you with debt but no credential. The Bay Area location compounds this risk by creating high living costs during college that could force you to take on additional debt.
You should only consider Notre Dame de Namur if you have strong academic preparation, clear career direction in business, and family financial support that minimizes borrowing. The school works best for students who can handle college independently and graduate on time. If you need academic support, are uncertain about your major, or plan to rely heavily on student loans, look elsewhere. The combination of low graduation rates and moderate earning potential creates too much downside risk for most students seeking a solid return on their education investment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Notre Dame de Namur University worth the cost?
Notre Dame de Namur University graduates earn a median of $74,576 ten years after graduation, which is below average for California private schools. With a 31.5% graduation rate and $25,000 median debt, the ROI is poor for most students.
What are the best paying programs at Notre Dame de Namur University?
Business Administration and Public Administration are the top earners at Notre Dame de Namur, with graduates making $78,074 and $76,460 respectively. Education programs pay significantly less, with Special Education graduates earning around $61,020.
How much debt do Notre Dame de Namur University graduates have?
Notre Dame de Namur graduates have a median debt of $25,000, which is manageable compared to many private schools. However, the low graduation rate of 31.5% means most students who start never finish their degree.
What is the graduation rate at Notre Dame de Namur University?
Only 31.5% of students graduate from Notre Dame de Namur University within six years. This extremely low completion rate is a major red flag for prospective students considering the school's value.