At $15,529/yr net price, Park University graduates earn $56,309/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $22,309/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $15,529 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $62,116 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $56,309/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$22,309/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 2.8 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 30.0% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $21,685 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $13,719/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $13,687/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $15,902/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $18,737/yr |
| $110,001+ | $18,018/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Software and Media Applications. | Bachelor | $62,887 | |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Associate | $62,260 | |
| Management Information Systems and Services. | Bachelor | $61,020 | $17,546 |
| Accounting and Related Services. | Bachelor | $53,810 | $23,339 |
| Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications. | Bachelor | $53,358 | |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Master | $52,265 | $41,000 |
| Education, General. | Master | $47,260 | |
| Human Resources Management and Services. | Bachelor | $45,383 | $20,000 |
| Health and Medical Administrative Services. | Bachelor | $43,798 | $24,823 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Bachelor | $42,961 | $21,442 |
The Risk Factor
30.0% of students at Park 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
Park University delivers mixed financial returns with significant completion risks that overshadow otherwise reasonable costs. The 30% graduation rate means seven out of ten students leave without degrees, making this a high-stakes financial gamble despite the relatively affordable $15,529 annual net price.
Your major choice determines everything at Park. Computer software and nursing programs generate solid returns around $62,000 annually, while management information systems offers the best debt-to-earnings ratio at $17,546 in loans for $61,020 in income. These technical programs justify the investment if you complete them.
The school works best for disciplined adult learners who can handle the challenges that cause most students to drop out. Park's military-friendly programs and online options attract working professionals who bring focus and life experience. If you need extensive academic support or campus engagement to stay motivated, the low 57% retention rate suggests you might struggle here.
Financial aid reaches only 39% of students, limiting support options. The median debt of $21,685 stays manageable for graduates but becomes problematic if you join the majority who don't finish. Park's regional Missouri job market supports its business and healthcare programs adequately but may limit opportunities in other fields.
Choose Park only if you're pursuing computer science, nursing, or business programs and have the self-direction to succeed in a challenging completion environment. Skip it if you need hands-on support or are considering liberal arts majors with weaker earnings potential.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Park University worth the money?
Park University's graduates earn $56,309 ten years after graduation, which is modest for a $15,529 annual cost. The 30% graduation rate is concerning and indicates many students don't finish their programs.
What are the best paying majors at Park University?
Computer software and nursing programs at Park University offer the strongest earnings potential, with graduates earning over $62,000 annually. These programs justify the tuition cost better than other majors at the school.
How much student debt do Park University graduates have?
Park University graduates typically leave with $21,685 in debt, which is manageable compared to the national average. The debt-to-income ratio works out reasonably well for graduates who complete their degrees.
Does Park University have a good graduation rate?
Park University's 30% graduation rate is poor, meaning 7 out of 10 students don't finish their degrees. This significantly increases the financial risk since students may accumulate debt without earning a degree.