At $18,952/yr net price, University of Pittsburgh-Johnstown graduates earn $66,125/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $32,125/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $18,952 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $75,808 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $66,125/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$32,125/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 2.4 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 53.4% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $24,250 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $10,031/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $12,642/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $17,645/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $22,346/yr |
| $110,001+ | $23,540/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electrical Engineering Technologies/Technicians. | Bachelor | $69,221 | |
| Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering. | Bachelor | $68,918 | $25,250 |
| Chemical Engineering. | Bachelor | $68,422 | $24,750 |
| Computer Science. | Bachelor | $67,202 | $25,750 |
| Mechanical Engineering. | Bachelor | $66,728 | $25,190 |
| Computer Engineering. | Bachelor | $65,131 | $26,489 |
| Civil Engineering. | Bachelor | $62,856 | $27,000 |
| Information Science/Studies. | Bachelor | $58,479 | $26,486 |
| Civil Engineering Technologies/Technicians. | Bachelor | $58,221 | |
| Accounting and Related Services. | Bachelor | $55,136 | $24,188 |
The Risk Factor
53.4% of students at University of Pittsburgh-Johnstown 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 Pittsburgh-Johnstown delivers solid financial returns for engineering and computer science students, but weak outcomes for other majors make this a high-stakes choice. Your career path determines whether this investment pays off.
Engineering programs dominate the earnings rankings here, with electrical engineering technology graduates earning $69,221 annually while carrying manageable debt loads around $25,000. Chemical, electrical, and mechanical engineering all cluster in the $66,000-$68,000 range. Computer science also performs well at $67,202. These technical programs justify the investment given southwestern Pennsylvania's manufacturing and technology sectors.
The financial risk lies in choosing any program outside these STEM fields. Non-engineering majors face significantly lower earning potential while paying the same tuition costs. The 53% graduation rate signals that many students leave without degrees, often carrying debt with no credential to show for it.
You face geographic limitations after graduation. The regional job market favors the engineering skills this campus emphasizes, but opportunities remain concentrated in Pennsylvania and nearby states. Students planning to work elsewhere may find better ROI at schools with stronger national alumni networks.
The $18,952 net price represents good value for Pennsylvania residents pursuing engineering degrees, but only 29% of students receive financial aid. Merit scholarships target high-achieving STEM applicants, making this school most attractive to strong math and science students who can handle rigorous technical coursework.
Choose Pitt-Johnstown if you want engineering training at a reasonable price and plan to work in the region. Look elsewhere if you're undecided about your major, struggle with math and science, or want broader career flexibility after graduation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is University of Pittsburgh-Johnstown worth the cost?
UPJ offers decent value for engineering and tech students, with graduates earning around $66,125 after 10 years and manageable debt levels at $24,250. However, the 53% graduation rate means nearly half of students don't finish, which significantly hurts ROI for those who don't complete their degree.
What are the best paying majors at University of Pittsburgh-Johnstown?
Engineering programs at UPJ deliver the strongest returns, with electrical engineering technology and chemical engineering graduates earning $68,000-$69,000 annually. Computer science also performs well at $67,202, making these programs worth the investment.
How much debt do University of Pittsburgh-Johnstown graduates have?
UPJ graduates carry a median debt of $24,250, which is reasonable compared to many four-year schools. With engineering graduates earning around $67,000-$69,000, this debt level is manageable for students in high-paying programs.
Should I attend University of Pittsburgh-Johnstown with a low GPA?
UPJ accepts 97% of applicants with an average SAT of 1120, making it accessible for average students. The real challenge is graduation, as only 53% of students finish their degree, so academic preparation matters more than admission requirements.