Student Outcomes
- Graduation Rate (4-year)
- 31.9%
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 29.0%
- Retention Rate
- 58.9%
- Median Earnings (10 years after entry)
- $45,846
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $24,625
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 9:1
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 59.7%
- Estimated Monthly Loan Payment
- $261/mo
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. | Bachelor | $36,745 | |
| Health and Physical Education/Fitness. | Bachelor | $29,685 | $25,833 |
| Psychology, General. | Bachelor | $29,685 |
Outcomes Overview
Sterling graduates face significant financial challenges after college. The median debt of $24,625 creates monthly payments of $261, consuming roughly 7% of typical graduate income. With median earnings of $45,846 ten years out, the debt-to-income ratio sits at 54%. This is concerning for a liberal arts degree. The 93.1% employment rate sounds promising, but many graduates likely work in lower-paying nonprofit, education, or ministry roles that align with the college's Presbyterian mission. The loan repayment rate of 59.65% suggests many struggle to keep up with payments. Despite strong job placement, Sterling offers a weak return on investment given the debt burden relative to earning potential.