Student Outcomes
- Graduation Rate (4-year)
- 93.9%
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 94.1%
- Retention Rate
- 97.2%
- Median Earnings (10 years after entry)
- $80,257
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $17,500
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 8:1
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 86.4%
- Estimated Monthly Loan Payment
- $186/mo
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics. | Bachelor | $125,015 | |
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | Bachelor | $94,408 | |
| Economics. | Bachelor | $81,702 | $19,500 |
| Education, Other. | Bachelor | $47,260 | |
| Psychology, General. | Bachelor | $43,426 | |
| Political Science and Government. | Bachelor | $39,369 | |
| Biology, General. | Bachelor | $25,194 |
Outcomes Overview
Swarthmore graduates earn a median of $80,257 ten years after graduation, putting them in the top tier nationally. The typical debt load of $17,500 creates a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of just 22%, well below the problematic 40% threshold. Monthly loan payments of $186 represent only 2.8% of typical graduate income. The college's extensive alumni network in academia, nonprofit work, and professional services helps explain the strong employment rate of 88.3%. Many graduates pursue advanced degrees or enter public service, following the school's Quaker tradition of social responsibility. The combination of high earnings potential and low debt burden creates a strong return on investment.