Student Outcomes
- Graduation Rate (4-year)
- 16.6%
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 20.2%
- Retention Rate
- 56.0%
- Median Earnings (10 years after entry)
- $34,409
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $32,500
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 11:1
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 17.0%
- Estimated Monthly Loan Payment
- $345/mo
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Social Work. | Bachelor | $32,391 | $29,836 |
| Theological and Ministerial Studies. | Master | $31,305 | $82,000 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Bachelor | $29,866 | $28,672 |
| Parks, Recreation and Leisure Studies. | Bachelor | $23,340 | $35,000 |
| Criminal Justice and Corrections. | Bachelor | $21,703 | $37,484 |
| Communication and Media Studies. | Bachelor | $20,140 | $40,500 |
Outcomes Overview
Shaw graduates face significant financial challenges after leaving campus. The median debt of $32,500 creates a steep burden when paired with median earnings of $34,409 ten years post-graduation. Monthly loan payments of $345 consume roughly 12% of gross income, well above the recommended 10% threshold. Only 17% of borrowers successfully repay their loans on schedule. Many Shaw alumni pursue careers in education, social work, and community services, fields that often prioritize mission over compensation. The employment rate of 94% shows graduates find work, but the low earnings relative to debt signal financial strain. This represents a weak return on investment despite the value of the HBCU experience.