At $23,560/yr net price, Transylvania University graduates earn $54,705/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $20,705/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $23,560 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $94,240 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $54,705/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$20,705/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 4.6 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 69.8% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $27,000 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $17,035/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $17,574/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $21,414/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $23,700/yr |
| $110,001+ | $29,681/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accounting and Related Services. | Bachelor | $48,667 | $27,000 |
| Business/Commerce, General. | Bachelor | $46,087 | $26,044 |
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. | Bachelor | $32,925 | |
| Biology, General. | Bachelor | $28,960 | $27,000 |
| Psychology, General. | Bachelor | $27,439 | $27,000 |
| English Language and Literature, General. | Bachelor | $18,771 |
The Risk Factor
69.8% of students at Transylvania University graduate within 6 years. A significant share of students finish, but roughly 30% do not complete their degree.
Analysis
Transylvania University delivers mixed financial returns that depend heavily on your major choice. The $23,560 annual net price produces moderate earnings outcomes, with accounting and business graduates earning nearly $49,000 and $46,000 respectively within ten years of graduation.
Your program selection makes the difference between financial success and struggle at Transylvania. Accounting majors see their $27,000 debt load pay off with solid starting salaries, while education majors face a tougher path with $32,925 median earnings. Biology and psychology graduates encounter the weakest financial outcomes, earning under $29,000 despite carrying similar debt burdens.
The school's 70% graduation rate creates real financial risk if you don't finish your degree. You'll face the full debt burden without the credential needed to access higher-paying positions. The 83% retention rate suggests many students struggle with the academic or financial demands.
Transylvania works financially if you major in business or accounting and can secure merit aid to reduce costs. The school's location in Lexington provides access to Kentucky's financial and healthcare sectors, which favor business graduates. However, liberal arts majors should consider whether the debt-to-earnings ratio justifies attendance.
Only 24% of students receive need-based aid, indicating limited financial assistance for middle-income families. If you need significant aid or plan to study education, psychology, or biology, you'll likely find better financial returns elsewhere. The school serves students who can afford the full cost and pursue its strongest career-oriented programs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Transylvania University worth the cost for the ROI?
With graduates earning $54,705 after 10 years and median debt of $27,000, Transylvania University offers moderate returns. The net price of $23,560 annually is reasonable for a private liberal arts college, though the 69% graduation rate suggests completion risk for some students.
What are the best paying majors at Transylvania University?
Accounting ($48,667) and general business ($46,087) provide the strongest financial returns at Transylvania University. Education majors earn significantly less at $32,925, while biology and psychology graduates face much lower starting salaries under $30,000.
How much debt do Transylvania University graduates typically have?
Transylvania University graduates carry a median debt of $27,000, which is manageable compared to many private colleges. With typical starting salaries around $54,705, most graduates can handle this debt load if they complete their degree.
Does Transylvania University provide good financial aid?
The net price of $23,560 suggests Transylvania University offers substantial financial aid, bringing costs down from the full sticker price. However, nearly one-third of students don't graduate, which can leave them with debt but no degree to show for it.