At $23,066/yr net price, Rockford University graduates earn $54,794/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $20,794/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $23,066 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $92,264 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $54,794/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$20,794/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 4.4 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 38.3% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $22,274 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $21,950/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $20,840/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $21,448/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $24,280/yr |
| $110,001+ | $26,869/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Master | $68,778 | $32,450 |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Bachelor | $61,020 | $26,980 |
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. | Master | $48,198 | |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Bachelor | $43,798 | $20,000 |
| Biology, General. | Bachelor | $33,993 | |
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. | Bachelor | $33,518 | $26,600 |
| Human Development, Family Studies, and Related Services. | Bachelor | $30,771 | |
| Social Sciences, General. | Bachelor | $30,771 | |
| Psychology, General. | Bachelor | $29,685 | |
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas. | Bachelor | $26,933 | $30,750 |
The Risk Factor
38.3% of students at Rockford 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
Rockford University delivers weak financial returns that make it a risky investment for most students. With median earnings of $54,794 ten years after graduation against a net price of $23,066 annually, your payoff depends heavily on your major choice and career trajectory.
Business administration stands out as the clear financial winner, with graduates earning $68,778 annually despite carrying higher debt loads around $32,450. Nursing also provides solid returns at $61,020, making these two programs the only reliable paths to strong ROI at Rockford. Education majors face a harsh reality with earnings of just $48,198, while biology graduates earn a concerning $33,993 despite completing a demanding program.
The school's 38% graduation rate presents a major financial risk. Nearly two-thirds of students leave without a degree, often carrying debt with no credential to show for it. The 70% retention rate signals that many students recognize early that Rockford isn't working for them.
You should consider Rockford only if you're committed to business or nursing and can graduate within four years. The regional job market in Rockford, Illinois limits opportunities compared to larger metropolitan areas, making career placement more challenging. Students planning careers in education, science, or liberal arts will find better ROI elsewhere.
With 42% of students receiving aid, merit scholarships may be available, but the low graduation rate suggests financial support alone won't solve the completion problem. Focus on schools with stronger graduation rates unless you're absolutely certain about business or nursing and confident in your ability to complete your degree.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Rockford University worth the cost for the ROI?
Rockford University graduates earn a median of $54,794 ten years after graduation, which is modest compared to the $23,066 annual cost. The 38% graduation rate means many students don't finish, making the investment risky for those who don't complete their degree.
What are the best paying majors at Rockford University?
Business Administration leads at $68,778 in median earnings, followed by nursing at $61,020. Education majors earn around $48,198, while biology graduates see lower returns at $33,993.
How much debt do Rockford University students typically have?
The median debt is $22,274, which is manageable compared to many private schools. However, with the low graduation rate, students who don't finish still carry debt without the degree to show for it.
Should I attend Rockford University if I'm unsure about my major?
With a 38% graduation rate, Rockford University is risky for undecided students. The school works best for students committed to business or nursing programs where earnings justify the cost.