At $12,233/yr net price, Trinity Washington University graduates earn $53,804/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $19,804/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $12,233 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $48,932 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $53,804/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$19,804/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 2.5 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 44.4% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $28,250 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $11,164/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $11,256/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $13,393/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $17,830/yr |
| $110,001+ | $20,561/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Educational Administration and Supervision. | Master | $87,604 | $34,167 |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Bachelor | $73,446 | $27,250 |
| Human Resources Management and Services. | Master | $67,660 | |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Master | $61,303 | $41,001 |
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. | Master | $56,931 | $20,500 |
| Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions. | Master | $52,107 | |
| Communication and Media Studies. | Master | $48,432 | |
| Student Counseling and Personnel Services. | Master | $48,198 | $65,942 |
| Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions. | Associate | $42,682 | |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Bachelor | $38,127 | $30,000 |
The Risk Factor
44.4% of students at Trinity Washington University graduate within 6 years. More than half of students finish, but the dropout rate is a real factor in whether this investment pays off.
Analysis
Trinity Washington University offers solid financial value for students pursuing specific career-focused programs, though your success depends heavily on choosing the right major. The nursing program stands out with graduates earning $73,446 annually while carrying reasonable debt of $27,250, making it one of the stronger ROI options in the DC area.
Educational administration graduates see the highest earnings at $87,604, though this typically requires additional graduate work beyond your initial degree. Business administration graduates earn $61,303 but carry significantly higher debt at $41,001, creating a less favorable return profile. Teacher education provides stable middle-income prospects at $56,931 with lower debt burdens.
The school's 44% graduation rate creates substantial risk that you may not complete your degree, particularly given the 71% retention rate suggests many students struggle after freshman year. With over half of students receiving financial aid, Trinity clearly serves a population that needs substantial support to afford college.
Trinity makes financial sense if you're pursuing nursing or education and value the small, supportive environment of a women's college in Washington DC. The $12,233 net price is reasonable for the area, and the school's focus on first-generation college students means strong support systems exist.
You should look elsewhere if you're considering liberal arts majors without clear career paths, as Trinity's general programs show weaker earnings outcomes. The school works best for students who know they want healthcare, education, or business careers and can benefit from Trinity's mentoring approach and DC location for internships and networking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Trinity Washington University worth the cost?
Trinity Washington University offers decent value with a low net price of $12,233 annually, but graduates earn only $53,804 after 10 years. The school's 44% graduation rate and $28,250 median debt create significant risk for students who don't finish their degrees.
What are the highest paying programs at Trinity Washington University?
Educational Administration graduates from Trinity Washington University earn the highest salaries at $87,604, followed by nursing programs at $73,446. Business and teaching programs produce lower returns, with teachers averaging $56,931 annually.
How much student debt do Trinity Washington University graduates have?
Trinity Washington University graduates carry a median debt of $28,250. With post-graduation earnings of $53,804, this creates a manageable debt-to-income ratio for those who complete their degrees.
What is the graduation rate at Trinity Washington University?
Only 44% of students graduate from Trinity Washington University. This low completion rate means many students accumulate debt without earning a degree, making the financial risk substantial despite the affordable tuition.