At $12,174/yr net price, Southeastern Louisiana University graduates earn $46,482/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $12,482/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $12,174 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $48,696 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $46,482/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$12,482/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 3.9 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 44.8% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $22,113 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $8,806/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $9,979/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $12,638/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $16,321/yr |
| $110,001+ | $16,196/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Master | $92,712 | $39,290 |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Bachelor | $61,728 | $21,450 |
| Quality Control and Safety Technologies/Technicians. | Bachelor | $61,516 | $21,500 |
| Computer Science. | Bachelor | $56,776 | |
| Engineering Technology, General. | Bachelor | $52,107 | $26,500 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Master | $51,106 | $17,851 |
| Educational Administration and Supervision. | Master | $49,696 | $21,201 |
| Industrial Production Technologies/Technicians. | Bachelor | $48,823 | $19,500 |
| Education, Other. | Master | $46,321 | |
| Accounting and Related Services. | Bachelor | $43,798 | $19,650 |
The Risk Factor
44.8% of students at Southeastern Louisiana University 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
Southeastern Louisiana University delivers solid returns for specific career-focused programs but struggles with completion rates that undermine its overall value proposition. The $12,174 annual net price creates reasonable debt levels, but only 45% of students graduate within six years.
Nursing stands out as the clear financial winner, with graduates earning over $90,000 annually despite carrying higher debt loads of $39,290. Computer Science also pays off well at $56,776 with no reported debt burden. Quality Control and Safety Technologies offer strong middle-class earning potential at $61,516. These technical programs align well with Louisiana's industrial economy and healthcare needs.
The major risk here is the graduation rate. If you struggle academically or lack strong motivation, you face significant odds of leaving without a degree while still carrying debt. The 76% retention rate suggests many students recognize early whether they can succeed.
This school works best for career-focused students who know they want nursing, computer science, or technical fields. The low net price makes it accessible for Louisiana residents seeking practical degrees without massive debt. However, students interested in liberal arts or those unsure of their direction should consider schools with stronger completion rates.
Louisiana residents benefit most from the affordable tuition structure. With only 33% of students receiving financial aid, many families can manage costs without significant borrowing. Merit aid opportunities appear limited, so your admission depends more on meeting program requirements than chasing scholarships.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Southeastern Louisiana University worth the cost?
Southeastern Louisiana University offers a low net price at $12,174 annually, but graduates earn just $46,482 ten years later, which is below average for college graduates. The 45% graduation rate means many students don't finish their degrees.
What are the highest paying majors at Southeastern Louisiana University?
Nursing programs at Southeastern Louisiana University lead to strong earnings, with some graduates making over $90,000 annually. Computer Science and Engineering Technology also offer decent returns with starting salaries around $52,000-$57,000.
How much debt do Southeastern Louisiana University graduates have?
Southeastern Louisiana University graduates leave with a median debt of $22,113, which is manageable compared to the national average. However, the relatively low post-graduation earnings make debt repayment challenging for many graduates.
Should I attend Southeastern Louisiana University or go somewhere else?
Southeastern Louisiana University makes sense if you're pursuing nursing or staying in Louisiana where the cost of living is lower. For other majors, the low graduation rate and modest earnings suggest considering alternatives with better outcomes.