At $17,760/yr net price, Our Lady of the Lake University graduates earn $48,675/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $14,675/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $17,760 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $71,040 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $48,675/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$14,675/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 4.8 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 42.4% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $24,999 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $17,664/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $24,620/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $16,021/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $14,902/yr |
| $110,001+ | $19,614/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management. | Master | $97,071 | |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Master | $84,653 | |
| Health and Medical Administrative Services. | Master | $71,015 | $48,560 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Doctoral | $69,338 | $86,192 |
| Communication Disorders Sciences and Services. | Master | $65,387 | |
| Curriculum and Instruction. | Master | $55,964 | |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Master | $55,625 | $41,000 |
| Accounting and Related Services. | Master | $52,107 | |
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. | Bachelor | $46,673 | |
| Social Work. | Master | $46,177 | $53,897 |
The Risk Factor
42.4% of students at Our Lady of the Lake 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
Our Lady of the Lake University delivers solid returns for students who choose the right programs, but weak graduation rates create significant financial risk. The median 10-year earnings of $48,675 provide reasonable value against the $17,760 net price, though your success depends heavily on completing your degree and picking a high-earning major.
Computer technology and nursing programs offer the strongest financial outcomes, with tech graduates earning $97,071 and registered nurses making $84,653. Health administration also pays well at $71,015, though you'll carry higher debt at $48,560. Business management graduates face a concerning debt-to-earnings ratio, with $86,192 in median debt against $69,338 in earnings.
The 42% graduation rate presents the biggest financial risk at OLLU. With nearly six in ten students failing to complete their degrees, you face substantial odds of carrying debt without the credential to justify it. The 58% retention rate signals many students struggle academically or financially during their first year.
OLLU works best for highly motivated students pursuing nursing or technology programs who can handle the academic challenges. The school serves San Antonio's healthcare and tech job markets well, providing local networking opportunities. However, students unsure about their major or those who struggled academically in high school should consider schools with stronger support systems and higher completion rates.
With 57% of students receiving aid, financial assistance is available but not guaranteed. Focus on merit scholarships and ensure you can handle the academic demands before enrolling, as dropping out leaves you with debt but no degree to show for it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Our Lady of the Lake University worth the cost?
Our Lady of the Lake University's value depends heavily on your major. With a 42% graduation rate and median earnings of $48,675 ten years after enrollment, the return is mixed compared to the $17,760 annual net price.
What are the best paying majors at Our Lady of the Lake University?
Computer/Information Technology Administration pays best at $97,071 median salary, followed by nursing programs at $84,653. These tech and healthcare programs offer strong returns that justify the cost.
How much debt do Our Lady of the Lake University graduates have?
The median debt is $24,999, which is manageable if you complete a high-paying program like IT or nursing. However, with the low 42% graduation rate, many students accumulate debt without finishing their degree.
Does Our Lady of the Lake University have good financial aid?
The net price of $17,760 suggests decent financial aid for a private university. This makes programs with strong earning potential more affordable, though you still need to graduate to see the benefits.