Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $40,092/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$6,092/yr |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $40,621 |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Information Science/Studies. | Master | $71,255 | $74,156 |
| Information Science/Studies. | Bachelor | $65,355 | $40,250 |
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | Bachelor | $61,144 | $37,500 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Master | $56,911 | $75,005 |
| Accounting and Related Services. | Master | $52,107 | $80,164 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Bachelor | $51,516 | |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Certificate | $50,856 | |
| Business/Commerce, General. | Bachelor | $50,096 | $43,122 |
| Human Resources Management and Services. | Master | $46,603 | $80,998 |
| Accounting and Related Services. | Associate | $46,087 |
Analysis
Strayer University-District of Columbia delivers weak financial returns for most students, with median earnings barely exceeding median debt levels. Your typical graduate earns $40,092 annually while carrying $40,621 in debt, creating a concerning debt-to-income ratio that limits financial flexibility in expensive Washington, DC.
Information science programs represent your best bet financially, generating $65,000-$71,000 in median earnings. Computer science graduates also fare well at $61,144 annually. These tech-focused majors align with DC's strong federal contracting market and technology sector demand. Business administration and accounting show mixed results, with accounting graduates earning $52,107 but carrying the heaviest debt burden at over $80,000.
The school's for-profit structure creates specific risks you should consider. Federal financial aid covers most costs for the 71% receiving aid, but private loans often fill gaps at higher interest rates. Merit scholarships are limited compared to traditional universities.
Strayer DC works best if you're pursuing information technology or computer science and can leverage the school's industry connections in the federal contracting space. The flexible scheduling appeals to working adults, and the DC location provides internship access. However, you should avoid this school if you're considering general business or accounting programs, where debt loads significantly outweigh earning potential.
Community college transfer students can reduce total costs by completing general education requirements elsewhere before transferring. Military students should explore whether their benefits fully cover tuition to minimize debt exposure. Given the weak overall returns, exhaust other options before committing to programs outside the technology fields.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Strayer University-District of Columbia worth the cost?
The numbers suggest mixed value. With median debt of $40,621 and 10-year earnings of $40,092, graduates barely earn more annually than their total debt amount. This makes Strayer University-District of Columbia a risky investment for most students.
What are the best paying majors at Strayer University-District of Columbia?
Information Science programs offer the strongest ROI at Strayer University-District of Columbia, with graduates earning $65,000-$71,000 annually. Business and accounting majors earn considerably less at $52,000-$57,000, making debt repayment more challenging.
How much debt do Strayer University-District of Columbia students typically graduate with?
The median debt at Strayer University-District of Columbia is $40,621. Given that average earnings 10 years after graduation are only $40,092, this debt level creates significant financial strain for most graduates.
Does Strayer University-District of Columbia have good financial aid?
Even with financial aid, Strayer University-District of Columbia students still graduate with substantial debt relative to their earning potential. The high debt-to-income ratio suggests financial aid packages are insufficient to make the degree financially viable for most students.