At $23,478/yr net price, Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Harrisburg 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) | $23,478 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $93,912 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $63,435/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$29,435/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 3.2 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 29.3% |
| 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 | $16,081/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $17,021/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $22,006/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $26,911/yr |
| $110,001+ | $29,925/yr |
The Risk Factor
29.3% of students at Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Harrisburg 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 Harrisburg delivers weak financial returns despite its Penn State brand recognition. Your median debt of $25,000 produces earnings of $63,435 ten years out, creating a manageable debt-to-income ratio but underwhelming overall returns given the annual cost approaching $24,000.
The most concerning number is the 29% graduation rate. You face significant risk of paying substantial tuition without completing your degree, leaving you with debt but no credential. The 82% retention rate suggests students stick around for sophomore year, but something derails degree completion for most.
Engineering and business programs at Penn State Harrisburg typically produce the strongest returns, benefiting from the central Pennsylvania job market that includes state government in nearby Harrisburg and manufacturing throughout the region. Liberal arts and general studies majors struggle more given the limited creative economy opportunities in the area.
This campus works best if you need Penn State's name recognition but cannot access University Park, or if you plan to transfer there after two years. The lower costs compared to the main campus provide some value, but only if you actually graduate.
Financial aid reaches just 26% of students, suggesting limited need-based support. Merit scholarships exist but are competitive. Your best cost strategy involves completing general education requirements here affordably, then transferring to University Park or another Penn State campus with stronger job placement records.
You should look elsewhere if you need extensive academic support to graduate or want a traditional college experience. The risk-reward profile only makes sense for highly motivated students who will definitely finish their degrees.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Harrisburg worth the debt?
With median debt of $25,000 and 10-year earnings of $63,435, graduates typically earn enough to manage payments reasonably well. However, the 29% graduation rate means many students take on debt without finishing their degree, which significantly worsens the financial outcome.
What is the return on investment for Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Harrisburg?
The ROI is mixed due to the extremely low 29% graduation rate, which means most students don't complete their programs. Those who do graduate earn a decent $63,435 after 10 years, but the high dropout risk makes this a financially risky choice for many students.
How much does Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Harrisburg cost compared to earnings?
The net price of $23,478 per year is reasonable compared to the $63,435 median earnings 10 years after enrollment. The main concern is whether you'll actually graduate, since only 3 out of 10 students complete their degree.
Should I attend Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Harrisburg for the money?
The financial outcome depends entirely on graduation, which happens for less than 30% of students. If you're confident you'll finish your degree and have strong study habits, the earnings potential justifies the cost.