At $14,760/yr net price, Southwest Minnesota State University graduates earn $51,342/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $17,342/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $14,760 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $59,040 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $51,342/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$17,342/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 3.4 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 44.1% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $20,500 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $9,440/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $11,263/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $12,810/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $16,813/yr |
| $110,001+ | $19,513/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. | Bachelor | $61,020 | $13,875 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Master | $55,964 | |
| Education, General. | Master | $51,482 | $17,448 |
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas. | Master | $49,729 | |
| Accounting and Related Services. | Bachelor | $47,729 | |
| Finance and Financial Management Services. | Bachelor | $43,798 | $21,500 |
| Agricultural Business and Management. | Bachelor | $42,123 | |
| Special Education and Teaching. | Bachelor | $41,937 | $24,883 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Bachelor | $39,729 | $20,500 |
| Criminal Justice and Corrections. | Bachelor | $39,729 | $26,000 |
The Risk Factor
44.1% of students at Southwest Minnesota State 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
Southwest Minnesota State University delivers modest returns with significant completion risks that undermine its financial value. The 44% graduation rate means more than half of students leave without a degree, making the investment particularly risky.
Nursing stands out as the clear financial winner, generating $61,020 annually with only $13,875 in debt. Business administration also performs well at nearly $56,000. Education programs produce mixed results, with general education majors earning $51,482 but subject-specific teaching programs falling to $49,729. Accounting graduates earn just $47,729, below the school median.
The low 69% retention rate signals that many students struggle academically or financially, increasing your risk of dropping out with debt but no degree. Combined with the poor graduation rate, these metrics suggest the school may not provide adequate support systems.
Only 11% of students receive financial aid, indicating limited institutional support for affordability. Without substantial aid, you'll likely pay close to the full $14,760 annual cost, making the investment harder to justify given the completion risks.
Southwest Minnesota State works financially if you're pursuing nursing or business and confident in your ability to complete the program despite high dropout rates. The regional job market in southwestern Minnesota may limit opportunities, potentially requiring relocation for better salaries. If you're uncertain about your major or academic preparedness, consider schools with stronger retention and graduation rates. The financial risk here is real, and the returns don't compensate adequately for that risk unless you're in a top-performing program.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Southwest Minnesota State University worth the cost?
With a net price of $14,760 and median earnings of $51,342 after 10 years, Southwest Minnesota State offers decent value for students who graduate. However, the 44% graduation rate means many students don't finish, which significantly impacts ROI.
What are the best paying programs at Southwest Minnesota State University?
Nursing programs offer the strongest return at Southwest Minnesota State, with graduates earning around $61,020 annually. Business administration follows at $55,964, while education majors typically earn $49,000-$51,000.
How much debt do Southwest Minnesota State University graduates have?
The median debt for Southwest Minnesota State graduates is $20,500, which is manageable given the $51,342 average earnings. Students typically pay about 5% of their income toward loans after graduation.
What is the biggest risk of attending Southwest Minnesota State University?
The 44% graduation rate is the main concern at Southwest Minnesota State University. Students who don't complete their degree face debt without the earning power to justify the investment.