At $25,032/yr net price, Thomas Aquinas College graduates earn $55,619/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $21,619/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $25,032 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $100,128 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $55,619/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$21,619/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 4.6 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 82.0% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $18,000 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $16,761/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $18,508/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $19,464/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $25,048/yr |
| $110,001+ | $28,063/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. | Bachelor | $30,047 | $18,000 |
The Risk Factor
82.0% of students at Thomas Aquinas College graduate within 6 years. Most students who start here finish their degree.
Analysis
Thomas Aquinas College delivers weak financial returns despite its strong academic reputation. Your median earnings of $55,619 after ten years barely justify the $25,032 annual net price, especially when the school's single academic program in Liberal Arts and Sciences produces graduates earning just $30,047.
The college's Great Books curriculum creates a significant earnings gap. While you'll receive an intellectually rigorous education, the lack of career-focused majors limits your earning potential in today's job market. The $18,000 median debt load appears manageable, but it becomes problematic when paired with below-average starting salaries.
Your biggest financial risk is the school's narrow academic focus. With only one program offering, you cannot pivot to higher-earning fields like business, engineering, or healthcare without transferring schools. The Southern California location compounds this challenge, as the region's high cost of living makes the modest graduate salaries even less sustainable.
This school works financially for you if your family can afford the full cost without borrowing heavily and you value the educational experience over financial returns. Students planning graduate school in law, academia, or theology may find the intellectual foundation worth the investment.
Avoid Thomas Aquinas College if you need student loans to attend or lack clear post-graduation plans. The low percentage of students receiving aid suggests limited financial assistance opportunities. Your money delivers better returns at state schools or colleges with diverse program offerings and stronger career services.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Thomas Aquinas College worth the cost compared to other liberal arts schools?
Thomas Aquinas College graduates earn $55,619 ten years after graduation, which is below average for college graduates nationally. With a net price of $25,032 annually, the financial return is modest compared to most four-year colleges.
What is the job market like for Thomas Aquinas College graduates?
The school focuses entirely on liberal arts and humanities, with graduates in these fields earning around $30,047 early in their careers. This creates limited earning potential in a job market that typically rewards STEM and business degrees more highly.
How much debt do Thomas Aquinas College students typically graduate with?
The median debt load is $18,000, which is relatively low compared to national averages. This lower debt burden helps offset the school's below-average earning outcomes for graduates.
Does Thomas Aquinas College provide good financial aid to make it affordable?
With a net price of $25,032 after aid, the school offers some financial assistance but students still face significant costs. The 82% graduation rate suggests most students can complete their programs despite the financial commitment.