At $20,913/yr net price, University of Advancing Technology graduates earn $50,719/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $16,719/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $20,913 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $83,652 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $50,719/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$16,719/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 5 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 39.3% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $28,812 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $19,401/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $18,608/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $21,699/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $23,343/yr |
| $110,001+ | $22,822/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | Bachelor | $86,129 | |
| Computer Programming. | Bachelor | $52,941 | $27,500 |
| Computer Software and Media Applications. | Bachelor | $25,580 |
The Risk Factor
39.3% of students at University of Advancing Technology graduate within 6 years. Fewer than half of students complete their degree. If you don't graduate, the financial investment may not pay off.
Analysis
University of Advancing Technology delivers mixed financial results, with computer science graduates earning strong returns while other tech programs fall short of expectations.
Your best bet financially is the general Computer and Information Sciences program, where graduates earn $86,129 annually. This salary easily justifies the school's costs and positions you well in Arizona's growing tech sector. Computer Programming offers decent returns at $52,941 with manageable debt levels of $27,500.
Avoid the Computer Software and Media Applications program. At $25,580 in median earnings, you'll struggle to service your debt and would likely earn more without a degree. This represents one of the weakest ROI programs among technical schools nationwide.
The 39% graduation rate poses serious financial risk. If you don't finish, you'll carry debt without the degree needed to access higher-paying tech jobs. The 79% retention rate suggests many students recognize early that the program isn't working for them.
UAT works best for self-directed learners who can handle a less structured environment and are certain about pursuing computer science or programming. The school's hands-on approach appeals to students who learn better through projects than traditional coursework.
Look elsewhere if you need significant academic support, want a traditional college experience, or are considering any program outside core computer science areas. Community college followed by transfer to Arizona State University often provides better value for similar career outcomes.
With 58% of students receiving aid, merit scholarships are available but not generous enough to dramatically change the value proposition for weaker programs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is University of Advancing Technology worth the cost for computer science students?
UAT's computer science graduates earn $86,129 after 10 years, making it a solid choice despite the $28,812 median debt. However, the 39% graduation rate means many students don't finish their programs.
What is the ROI for University of Advancing Technology compared to other schools?
With average 10-year earnings of $50,719 and a net price of $20,913 annually, UAT offers moderate returns. The school's value depends heavily on your specific program, as computer science pays well while media applications graduates average only $25,580.
How much debt do University of Advancing Technology graduates typically have?
UAT graduates carry a median debt of $28,812, which is manageable for computer science majors but risky for lower-paying programs. The high acceptance rate of 91.5% means admission is easy, but finishing is harder with less than 40% graduating.
Which University of Advancing Technology programs have the best job prospects?
Computer and Information Sciences graduates earn the most at $86,129, while Computer Programming majors make $52,941. Avoid Computer Software and Media Applications, where graduates average just $25,580 despite similar debt levels.