At $33,756/yr net price, St. Andrews University graduates earn $45,606/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $11,606/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $33,756 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $135,024 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $45,606/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$11,606/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 11.6 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 27.1% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $25,250 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $35,861/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $28,615/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $31,578/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $34,947/yr |
| $110,001+ | $34,745/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Health and Physical Education/Fitness. | Bachelor | $31,133 | $26,050 |
The Risk Factor
27.1% of students at St. Andrews 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
St. Andrews University delivers poor financial returns that should give you serious pause. With median earnings of just $45,606 ten years after graduation and a graduation rate of only 27%, this school struggles to deliver on its $33,756 annual price tag.
The numbers get worse when you look at specific programs. Health and Physical Education graduates earn a median of $31,133 while carrying $26,050 in debt. This creates a debt-to-income ratio that makes loan repayment challenging, especially given that starting salaries in these fields typically run even lower than the ten-year median.
The 51% retention rate signals that many students recognize early that this school may not be the right fit. Combined with the low graduation rate, you face significant risk of leaving with debt but no degree. The rural North Carolina location limits internship and job opportunities compared to universities near major employment centers.
This school makes financial sense only if you receive substantial merit aid that brings your net cost well below the stated price. Even then, you should carefully compare the total cost against in-state public options that offer better career services and alumni networks. Students interested in education or fitness careers will find better earning potential and lower debt loads at public universities with stronger education programs.
If you're committed to a small, private college experience, ensure you have a clear career plan and strong family financial support. The combination of high costs, low earnings, and poor graduation rates makes St. Andrews a risky investment for most students seeking positive educational ROI.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is St. Andrews University worth the cost for most students?
St. Andrews University has a poor return on investment with graduates earning just $45,606 ten years after enrollment while paying over $33,000 annually. The 27% graduation rate means most students leave with debt but no degree.
What is the job market like for St. Andrews University graduates?
St. Andrews graduates earn below the national average, with the top program (Health and Physical Education) producing median earnings of only $31,133. This creates a challenging debt-to-income ratio for most graduates.
How much student debt do St. Andrews University graduates typically have?
The median debt load is $25,250, which is manageable compared to some schools. However, with low graduation rates and modest earning potential, even this amount can be difficult to repay.
Which programs at St. Andrews University offer the best value?
Even the highest-earning program at St. Andrews (Health and Physical Education at $31,133 median salary) provides questionable value given the annual cost of over $33,000. Students should carefully consider more affordable alternatives for similar programs.