At $31,046/yr net price, Pace University graduates earn $70,378/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $36,378/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $31,046 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $124,184 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $70,378/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$36,378/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 3.4 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 61.4% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $23,250 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $26,575/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $27,098/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $29,308/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $30,891/yr |
| $110,001+ | $36,098/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | Doctoral | $137,605 | |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Doctoral | $124,271 | |
| Educational Administration and Supervision. | Master | $117,572 | |
| Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions. | Master | $113,139 | $151,164 |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Master | $107,614 | $47,444 |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Bachelor | $90,727 | $21,500 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Master | $90,637 | |
| Human Resources Management and Services. | Master | $88,639 | |
| Electrical Engineering Technologies/Technicians. | Bachelor | $88,639 | |
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | Bachelor | $85,760 |
The Risk Factor
61.4% of students at Pace University graduate within 6 years. A significant share of students finish, but roughly 39% do not complete their degree.
Analysis
Pace University delivers strong returns for students in its standout programs, but the financial picture varies dramatically by major. Computer science graduates earn $137,605 annually, making the $31,046 annual net price a solid investment. Nursing programs also pay off well, with graduates earning over $100,000, though you'll want the higher-earning track that comes with $47,444 in debt rather than the allied health version that saddles you with $151,164.
The school's New York City location drives up costs but provides access to high-paying metropolitan jobs that justify the expense for certain fields. Your graduation odds sit at 61%, which means significant dropout risk that could leave you with debt and no degree. The 77% retention rate suggests many students struggle with the academic or financial demands.
Pace works best if you're targeting computer science, nursing, or education administration where the salary outcomes clearly exceed the investment. Avoid programs outside these high-earning tracks, as the hefty private school price becomes harder to justify. The school offers aid to only 27% of students, so expect to pay close to full price unless you qualify for merit scholarships in competitive programs.
Skip Pace if you're undecided on your major or interested in lower-paying fields where the return won't cover the premium you'll pay for the private school experience and Manhattan location. The financial risk is too high without a clear path to the programs that actually deliver strong earnings outcomes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Pace University worth the cost?
Pace University graduates earn $70,378 annually after 10 years, which is modest given the $31,046 yearly net price. The return on investment varies significantly by program, with computer science and nursing majors earning substantially more than the average.
What are the best paying majors at Pace University?
Computer science graduates from Pace University earn around $137,605 annually, making it the highest-paying program. Nursing and allied health programs also perform well, with earnings between $107,000-$124,000.
How much debt do Pace University students graduate with?
The median debt for Pace University graduates is $23,250, which is manageable compared to many private schools. However, with only a 61% graduation rate, many students take on debt without completing their degree.
Does Pace University have good financial aid?
Pace University's net price of $31,046 suggests decent financial aid for a private New York school. Students should compare aid packages carefully since the school's high acceptance rate (83%) means aid may be less competitive than at more selective institutions.