At $18,436/yr net price, Randolph College graduates earn $53,409/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $19,409/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $18,436 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $73,744 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $53,409/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$19,409/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 3.8 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 51.5% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $26,950 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $16,931/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $16,767/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $17,824/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $22,362/yr |
| $110,001+ | $18,740/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Curriculum and Instruction. | Master | $43,575 | |
| Biology, General. | Bachelor | $28,598 | $26,373 |
| Health and Physical Education/Fitness. | Bachelor | $22,771 | $23,750 |
| Fine and Studio Arts. | Bachelor | $18,771 |
The Risk Factor
51.5% of students at Randolph 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
Randolph College delivers weak financial returns that don't justify its private school price tag. With median 10-year earnings of $53,409 against a net price of $18,436 annually, you're looking at a payback period that stretches uncomfortably long, especially given the 51% graduation rate means half of students never finish their degrees.
The earnings data by major reveals troubling patterns. Even the highest-paying program, Curriculum and Instruction at $43,575, falls well below what you'd expect from a four-year degree investment. Biology graduates earn just $28,598 while carrying $26,373 in debt, creating a debt-to-income ratio that will strain your budget for years. Fine and Studio Arts majors face the harshest reality with earnings of only $18,771 annually.
The 68% retention rate signals that many students recognize the poor value proposition early and transfer elsewhere. You face significant risk of not completing your degree here, which would leave you with debt but no credential to show for it.
This school makes financial sense only if you qualify for substantial need-based aid that dramatically reduces your actual costs, or if you're pursuing teaching and plan to use loan forgiveness programs. The 40% of students receiving aid suggests generous packages for those who qualify, but you need to run the numbers carefully based on your specific aid offer.
If you're debt-averse or looking for strong career earnings potential, look elsewhere. Randolph College works best for students with significant family financial support who prioritize the small college experience over financial returns.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Randolph College worth the cost for most students?
Randolph College graduates earn a median of $53,409 ten years after graduation, which is modest given the $18,436 annual net price and typical debt of $26,950. The 51% graduation rate means nearly half of students don't finish, making it a risky investment for many.
Which programs at Randolph College have the best ROI?
Curriculum and Instruction graduates earn $43,575, making it the only program that clearly justifies the cost. Biology graduates earn just $28,598, while Fine Arts graduates average only $18,771, barely covering the annual net price.
How much debt do Randolph College students typically graduate with?
The median debt is $26,950, which is manageable compared to some schools but concerning given the relatively low earning outcomes. Students in lower-paying programs like Fine Arts face particularly difficult debt-to-income ratios.
Does Randolph College provide good financial aid to reduce costs?
With a net price of $18,436, Randolph does offer significant financial aid since the sticker price is much higher. However, the low graduation rate and modest earnings suggest the investment still carries substantial risk even at the reduced cost.