At $13,021/yr net price, St Luke's College graduates earn $61,033/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $27,033/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $13,021 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $52,084 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $61,033/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$27,033/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 1.9 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 33.3% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $15,000 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $8,623/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $21,818/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. | Associate | $50,856 | $13,000 |
| Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions. | Associate | $39,585 | $13,000 |
The Risk Factor
33.3% of students at St Luke's College 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 Luke's College delivers strong financial returns for healthcare-focused students but falls short for those pursuing other paths. With a net price of $13,021 and median debt of just $15,000, the school keeps costs manageable compared to most private colleges.
The nursing program stands out as the clear financial winner, producing graduates earning $50,856 within ten years of graduation. Given the low debt burden and strong demand for nurses in Iowa and surrounding states, nursing students can expect solid ROI. The allied health programs offer more modest returns at $39,585, but still reasonable given the low debt levels.
The major red flag is the 33% graduation rate. Two-thirds of students leave without completing their degree, making this a high-risk choice despite the low sticker price. You face significant odds of ending up with debt but no credential to show for it.
St Luke's works best for students with clear healthcare career goals who can handle the academic demands. The school's specialized focus means limited options if you change your mind about nursing or allied health. Students uncertain about their major or those seeking broader academic programs should look elsewhere.
With less than half of students receiving financial aid, merit scholarships appear limited. The relatively low net price suggests the school already discounts tuition heavily across the board rather than targeting aid to specific students.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is St Luke's College worth the cost for nursing students?
St Luke's College offers strong value for nursing majors, with graduates earning $50,856 annually and relatively low debt at $15,000 median. The low net price of $13,021 per year makes it one of the more affordable nursing programs in Iowa.
What is the job market like for St Luke's College graduates?
St Luke's College graduates earn $61,033 on average 10 years after graduation, which is solid for a specialized health sciences school. However, the 33% graduation rate means many students don't finish their programs.
How much debt do St Luke's College students typically graduate with?
St Luke's College students graduate with a median debt of $15,000, which is relatively low compared to national averages. The manageable debt load helps improve the overall return on investment for graduates who complete their programs.
Are non-nursing programs at St Luke's College worth the investment?
Allied health programs at St Luke's College lead to lower earnings at $39,585 annually, making the ROI less attractive than nursing tracks. Students should carefully consider career prospects before enrolling in non-nursing programs.