At $22,951/yr net price, Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Erie-Behrend College 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) | $22,951 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $91,804 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $63,435/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$29,435/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 3.1 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 45.7% |
| 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 | $14,702/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $14,905/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $19,588/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $25,800/yr |
| $110,001+ | $29,572/yr |
The Risk Factor
45.7% of students at Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Erie-Behrend College 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
Penn State Behrend delivers solid middle-class returns with median earnings of $63,435 ten years after graduation, but the 45.7% graduation rate creates significant financial risk for your investment.
The school's engineering and business programs drive most of the positive outcomes, benefiting from strong ties to Erie's manufacturing sector and proximity to Pittsburgh's job market. Computer science and mechanical engineering graduates typically see the highest starting salaries, while liberal arts majors face tougher employment prospects in the region's limited service economy.
Your biggest financial risk is not finishing. With less than half of students graduating, you face real odds of leaving with debt but no degree. The $25,000 median debt load is manageable if you complete your program, but becomes a burden if you transfer or drop out.
Behrend works best financially if you're Pennsylvania residents pursuing technical fields and can handle the academic demands. Out-of-state students should think twice given the higher costs and modest returns. The low 26.7% financial aid rate means most families pay close to full price, making this a poor choice if you need substantial need-based aid.
Your strongest cost strategy is entering as a strong student in engineering or business, then leveraging Penn State's alumni network for internships and job placement. Avoid this school if you're undecided on major, struggle academically, or need significant financial support beyond federal loans.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Erie-Behrend College worth the cost?
With graduates earning $63,435 ten years after enrollment and median debt of $25,000, Penn State Erie provides decent financial returns. However, the 46% graduation rate means many students don't finish, which significantly hurts the value proposition.
What is the ROI for Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Erie-Behrend College graduates?
Penn State Erie graduates typically earn enough to justify the $25,000 median debt load, with 10-year earnings of $63,435. The main risk is the low graduation rate, which leaves nearly half of students with debt but no degree.
Does Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Erie-Behrend College have good financial aid?
The net price of $22,951 per year is reasonable for a state school, but financial aid varies widely by family income. Students should compare aid packages carefully since the 95% acceptance rate means merit aid is limited.
What are the highest paying majors at Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Erie-Behrend College?
Engineering and business programs typically offer the best returns at Penn State Erie, aligning with the school's strengths in these fields. Liberal arts and education majors may struggle to reach the $63,435 average earnings figure.