At $28,083/yr net price, Ottawa University-Ottawa graduates earn $55,552/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $21,552/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $28,083 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $112,332 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $55,552/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$21,552/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 5.2 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 28.7% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $21,500 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $21,092/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $25,749/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $28,099/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $29,480/yr |
| $110,001+ | $30,254/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Bachelor | $39,369 | $20,000 |
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. | Bachelor | $36,437 | $22,000 |
| Health and Physical Education/Fitness. | Bachelor | $32,391 | $27,000 |
The Risk Factor
28.7% of students at Ottawa University-Ottawa 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
Ottawa University-Ottawa delivers weak financial returns that should concern prospective students. With median 10-year earnings of $55,552 against a $28,083 annual net price, you face four years of substantial costs for modest income potential.
The school's 28.7% graduation rate creates the biggest financial risk. Nearly three in four students leave without a degree, often carrying debt with no credential to show for it. The 57.6% retention rate signals that many students recognize problems early and transfer elsewhere.
Even graduating students in top-earning programs see disappointing returns. Business majors earn $39,369 annually with $20,000 in debt, while education majors make $36,437 with $22,000 in debt. Health and physical education graduates face the worst combination: $32,391 in earnings with $27,000 in debt. These salary levels barely justify the investment, especially in Kansas where living costs remain relatively low.
The 35.3% of students receiving financial aid suggests limited merit scholarship opportunities. Without substantial aid, the full cost burden makes Ottawa University financially unviable for most students.
You should consider Ottawa University only if you receive significant financial aid that reduces your net cost below $15,000 annually, and only if you plan to pursue business or education. Students interested in health and fitness programs will find better value elsewhere. The combination of high dropout rates, modest earning potential, and limited aid makes this school a poor financial choice for most applicants. Regional public universities in Kansas offer better graduation rates and similar career outcomes at lower costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ottawa University-Ottawa worth the cost compared to other colleges?
Ottawa University-Ottawa has concerning ROI metrics with a 29% graduation rate and $55,552 median earnings after 10 years against a $28,083 annual net price. The low graduation rate means most students don't finish their degree, making the investment risky.
What are the best paying programs at Ottawa University-Ottawa?
Business Administration graduates earn around $39,369 annually, while Education majors earn $36,437. These earnings are below national averages for college graduates, but the $21,500 median debt load is manageable if you complete your degree.
How much debt do Ottawa University-Ottawa students typically graduate with?
The median debt is $21,500, which is reasonable compared to many private colleges. However, with only 29% of students actually graduating, many take on debt without earning a degree.
Should I attend Ottawa University-Ottawa for teacher education?
Teacher education graduates earn $36,437 annually, which is typical for the field. The main concern is the school's 29% graduation rate, meaning 7 out of 10 students don't finish their teaching degree.