At $21,557/yr net price, United States University graduates earn $80,980/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $46,980/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $21,557 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $86,228 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $80,980/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$46,980/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 1.8 years |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $15,244 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $21,557/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Master | $102,706 | $46,254 |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Bachelor | $82,440 | |
| Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General. | Bachelor | $48,823 | |
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. | Certificate | $42,682 |
Analysis
United States University delivers strong financial returns despite its for-profit status, with graduates earning a median $80,980 ten years after enrollment against relatively manageable debt levels of $15,244.
Nursing programs at this San Diego school offer the clearest path to financial success, with registered nursing graduates earning over $100,000 annually. Even the lower-earning nursing track still pays $82,440, both figures well above the national average for nursing roles. Health sciences graduates earn a more modest $48,823, while liberal arts majors see returns of just $42,682.
The school's biggest financial risk lies in its extremely low financial aid participation rate of just 11.79 percent of students. This suggests most students pay close to the full $21,557 annual net price out of pocket, making cash flow a major consideration. You'll likely need substantial upfront resources or private loan access.
This university works best for career-focused students who can afford the tuition and want direct job training, particularly in nursing. San Diego's strong healthcare job market supports the nursing program outcomes. Liberal arts students should look elsewhere given the weak earning potential relative to costs.
The low aid percentage also means limited merit scholarship opportunities. Your best cost strategy involves completing the program quickly and leveraging the school's career services to land higher-paying positions immediately after graduation. Students needing significant financial aid or pursuing non-healthcare majors face poor return prospects here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is United States University worth the cost?
United States University delivers solid returns with graduates earning $80,980 annually against a net price of $21,557 per year. The nursing programs justify the cost with salaries exceeding $80,000, but liberal arts graduates earn just $42,682.
What are the best paying majors at United States University?
Nursing programs at United States University offer the strongest financial returns, with registered nursing graduates earning over $100,000 and nursing administration graduates making $82,440. Health sciences majors earn $48,823, while liberal arts graduates see significantly lower returns at $42,682.
How much student debt do United States University graduates have?
United States University graduates leave with a median debt of $15,244, which is manageable compared to national averages. Nursing graduates can easily handle this debt load given their high earning potential.
Should I attend United States University for a liberal arts degree?
Liberal arts graduates from United States University earn just $42,682 annually, making it harder to justify the $21,557 yearly cost. Consider the nursing or health sciences programs instead for better financial outcomes.