Student Outcomes
- Graduation Rate (4-year)
- 36.4%
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 42.9%
- Retention Rate
- 30.0%
- Median Earnings (10 years after entry)
- $30,573
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $23,000
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 9:1
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 73.9%
- Estimated Monthly Loan Payment
- $244/mo
Outcomes Overview
Sterling graduates face challenging financial realities despite strong employment prospects. The 97.3% employment rate shows graduates find work, but median earnings of $30,573 after 10 years create a difficult equation. With $23,000 in median debt requiring $244 monthly payments, graduates spend roughly 10% of their gross income on loans. This debt-to-earnings ratio exceeds the recommended 8% threshold for manageable repayment. Sterling's focus on environmental sustainability and outdoor education often leads graduates into nonprofit conservation work, outdoor recreation, and sustainable agriculture careers that prioritize mission over money. The 73.85% loan repayment rate suggests many struggle financially post-graduation. Given the high tuition costs and modest earning potential, Sterling represents a weak return on investment for most students.