At $17,818/yr net price, Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Abington graduates earn $63,435/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $29,435/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $17,818 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $71,272 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $63,435/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$29,435/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 2.4 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 22.2% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $25,000 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $12,668/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $12,725/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $17,120/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $23,575/yr |
| $110,001+ | $26,043/yr |
The Risk Factor
22.2% of students at Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Abington 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
Penn State Abington delivers weak financial returns that should give you serious pause. With median 10-year earnings of $63,435 against a net price of $17,818 annually, the payback timeline stretches uncomfortably long, especially when you factor in the alarming 22% graduation rate.
The graduation rate creates the biggest financial risk here. More than three-quarters of students leave without a degree, meaning they carry debt but lack the credential that justifies the investment. Even if you complete your program, you're looking at median debt of $25,000 for earnings that barely exceed what many associate degree programs deliver.
Penn State Abington works as a financial strategy only if you're using it as a cheaper pathway into the broader Penn State system. Many students start here then transfer to University Park or other campuses with stronger alumni networks and higher-paying career outcomes. If you plan to stay and graduate from Abington specifically, the numbers don't support the investment.
The school makes financial sense for local students who can live at home and minimize living costs, or those who secure significant merit aid. With only 38% of students receiving financial aid, most pay close to full price. You should have a clear transfer plan or target specific programs with strong regional employer connections before enrolling.
Look elsewhere if you need strong career services, extensive alumni networks, or programs that command higher starting salaries. The combination of low graduation rates and modest earnings outcomes makes this a financially risky choice for most students seeking a four-year degree.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Abington worth the cost?
Penn State Abington's value depends heavily on your program and transfer plans. With a 22% graduation rate and $63,435 median earnings after 10 years, the ROI is below average for a Penn State campus.
What is the job market like for Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Abington graduates?
Graduates earn around $63,435 ten years after starting college, which is decent for the region. However, the extremely low 22% graduation rate means many students don't complete their degrees at all.
How much debt do Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Abington students typically graduate with?
The median debt is $25,000, which is manageable given the $63,435 starting salary for those who graduate. The bigger risk is the high dropout rate, which leaves students with debt but no degree.
Should I choose Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Abington over other colleges?
Consider Penn State Abington mainly if you plan to transfer to University Park or need a local option. The low graduation rate and open admissions suggest many students struggle to complete their programs here.