At $12,785/yr net price, University of Minnesota-Rochester graduates earn $69,020/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $35,020/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $12,785 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $51,140 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $69,020/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$35,020/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 1.5 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 56.9% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $19,500 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $3,010/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $4,452/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $3,168/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $16,790/yr |
| $110,001+ | $24,800/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General. | Bachelor | $49,270 | $19,056 |
The Risk Factor
56.9% of students at University of Minnesota-Rochester 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
University of Minnesota-Rochester delivers strong financial value with a low net price that makes the modest graduation rate more tolerable. Your median debt of $19,500 sits well below national averages, and the $69,020 median earnings create a manageable debt-to-income ratio.
The school's health sciences focus creates both opportunity and risk. Health Services graduates earn $49,270 annually, which provides decent returns given the low debt load, but this narrow program concentration means your career options remain limited if you change direction. The Mayo Clinic's presence in Rochester creates strong local job placement opportunities in healthcare, though you'll compete with graduates from larger programs.
The 57% graduation rate signals retention challenges that could derail your investment. The 72% first-year retention rate suggests students frequently transfer or drop out, potentially leaving you with debt but no degree. You face higher risk if you struggle academically or find the limited program options don't match your interests.
This school works best if you're committed to health sciences and want affordable entry into Minnesota's healthcare job market. The low sticker price makes it viable even for students with limited financial aid eligibility. You should look elsewhere if you want broader program options, a traditional college experience, or higher graduation rates.
The relatively low percentage receiving aid suggests either strong family incomes among students or limited financial aid availability. Merit scholarships appear limited given the public university structure, so your main cost advantage comes from the inherently low net price rather than institutional discounts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is University of Minnesota-Rochester worth the cost compared to other schools?
UMN-Rochester offers decent value with a net price of $12,785 and graduates earning $69,020 after 10 years. The relatively low debt load of $19,500 makes it more affordable than many four-year programs, though the 57% graduation rate is concerning.
What programs at University of Minnesota-Rochester have the best ROI?
Health Services and Allied Health programs are the main focus, with graduates earning around $49,270. These healthcare-focused programs align with Rochester's medical industry, though earnings are moderate compared to higher-paying health fields.
How much student debt do University of Minnesota-Rochester graduates typically have?
The median debt is $19,500, which is lower than many four-year schools. Combined with the $12,785 annual net price, debt levels remain manageable for most students who complete their programs.
Should I be worried about the graduation rate at University of Minnesota-Rochester?
The 57% graduation rate is below average for four-year schools and represents a significant risk. Nearly half of students don't finish their programs, which could leave you with debt but no degree.