At $23,636/yr net price, Saint Edward's University graduates earn $58,826/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $24,826/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $23,636 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $94,544 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $58,826/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$24,826/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 3.8 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 64.2% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $24,803 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $18,740/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $20,775/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $22,064/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $26,084/yr |
| $110,001+ | $35,487/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Master | $65,486 | $49,877 |
| Accounting and Related Services. | Bachelor | $53,358 | $25,000 |
| Finance and Financial Management Services. | Bachelor | $50,856 | $21,875 |
| Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other. | Bachelor | $50,856 | |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Bachelor | $46,924 | $26,000 |
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas. | Bachelor | $46,087 | $26,000 |
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. | Master | $41,565 | |
| Radio, Television, and Digital Communication. | Bachelor | $41,193 | $24,000 |
| Marketing. | Bachelor | $40,089 | $26,250 |
| International Business. | Bachelor | $38,289 | $23,593 |
The Risk Factor
64.2% of students at Saint Edward's University graduate within 6 years. A significant share of students finish, but roughly 36% do not complete their degree.
Analysis
Saint Edward's University delivers mixed financial returns, with strong outcomes for business majors but weaker prospects across most other programs. The school's Austin location provides access to a growing job market, but you'll pay a premium for that advantage.
Business Administration leads the earnings pack at $65,486 annually, though it comes with the highest debt load at nearly $50,000. Accounting offers a more balanced return at $53,358 with moderate debt of $25,000. Finance graduates earn $50,856 with lower debt of $21,875, making it the best value among business programs. If you're considering other majors beyond business, expect significantly lower returns that may not justify the cost.
The 64% graduation rate creates real financial risk. More than one in three students leave without a degree but often with debt. The 78% retention rate suggests academic struggles emerge early, so you need honest assessment of your preparation level before enrolling.
You're a good financial fit if you're targeting business careers and can handle the academic demands. The Austin job market rewards business graduates, and the school's local connections help with placement. Skip this school if you're interested in liberal arts, education, or other non-business fields where the earnings don't support the investment.
Only 39% of students receive financial aid, suggesting limited need-based assistance. Focus on merit scholarships during admission, as these represent your best chance to improve the financial equation. The relatively low median debt of $24,803 indicates that many families pay out of pocket or receive substantial aid packages.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Saint Edward's University worth the cost?
Saint Edward's University graduates earn $58,826 after 10 years, which is modest for a private school costing $23,636 annually. The return on investment is acceptable but not outstanding, especially compared to other Texas universities.
What are the best paying majors at Saint Edward's University?
Business Administration leads at $65,486 in early-career earnings, followed by Accounting at $53,358. Finance and interdisciplinary studies both average around $50,856, making business programs the clear winners for salary potential.
How much student debt do Saint Edward's University graduates have?
The median debt is $24,803, which is manageable given the starting salaries for business majors. However, students in lower-paying programs may struggle with loan payments relative to their earnings.
Does Saint Edward's University have good job placement after graduation?
With a 64% graduation rate and modest post-graduation earnings, job outcomes are mixed. The Austin location helps with internships and networking, but the school's 85% acceptance rate suggests less selectivity than top-tier programs.