At $5,732/yr net price, NUC University graduates earn $24,785/yr within 10 years of enrollment.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $5,732 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $22,928 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $24,785/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | $-9,215/yr |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 56.2% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $9,500 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $5,419/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $6,194/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $8,947/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $12,658/yr |
| $110,001+ | $13,669/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Master | $32,032 | $23,657 |
| Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications. | Bachelor | $27,494 | $23,027 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Bachelor | $26,896 | $29,711 |
| Electrical Engineering Technologies/Technicians. | Associate | $25,774 | $10,416 |
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. | Master | $23,803 | $24,805 |
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | Associate | $22,999 | $12,833 |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Bachelor | $21,202 | $15,832 |
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. | Bachelor | $19,227 | |
| Accounting and Related Services. | Bachelor | $18,771 | $23,952 |
| Criminal Justice and Corrections. | Bachelor | $16,811 | $26,117 |
The Risk Factor
56.2% of students at NUC 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
NUC University offers one of Puerto Rico's most affordable college experiences, but graduates face serious earning limitations that undermine the financial value for most students. With median earnings of just $24,785 ten years after graduation, you'll likely struggle to build wealth even with the low $5,732 annual cost.
Business Administration stands out as the clear financial winner, delivering $32,032 in median earnings with moderate debt levels. Computer Systems Networking also shows promise at $27,494 annually. However, Education majors earn only $23,803 while carrying nearly $25,000 in debt, creating a problematic debt-to-income ratio that will strain your budget for years.
The 56% graduation rate signals real completion risk. If you don't finish, you'll face debt without the degree needed for better-paying jobs. The 56% retention rate suggests many students struggle academically or financially during their first year.
This school makes financial sense if you're committed to staying in Puerto Rico's job market, need an affordable degree option, and choose Business Administration or a technology program. The low net price means you can potentially graduate with minimal debt if you qualify for aid.
Avoid NUC if you plan to work in the mainland US job market, where these earnings won't support a comfortable lifestyle. Education majors should especially reconsider given the poor earning-to-debt ratio. You'll find better financial returns at public universities or mainland institutions, even accounting for higher costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is NUC University worth the cost compared to other colleges?
NUC University has a low net price of $5,732 per year, but graduates earn just $24,785 annually after 10 years. This puts it well below the national average for college ROI, making it a questionable investment for most students.
What are the best paying programs at NUC University?
Business Administration leads at $32,032 in median earnings, followed by Computer Systems Networking at $27,494. Even the top programs at NUC University produce below-average earnings compared to similar degrees at other institutions.
How much debt do NUC University graduates typically have?
The median debt is relatively low at $9,500, which helps offset the poor earnings outcomes. However, with graduates earning under $25,000 annually, even this modest debt load represents a significant burden.
What is NUC University's graduation rate and does it affect ROI?
Only 56% of students graduate from NUC University, meaning nearly half never complete their degree. This low completion rate, combined with poor post-graduation earnings, makes the financial risk substantial for prospective students.