At $14,072/yr net price, University of Puerto Rico-Carolina graduates earn $30,626/yr within 10 years of enrollment.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $14,072 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $56,288 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $30,626/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | $-3,374/yr |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 40.2% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $5,500 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $13,801/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $14,401/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $14,824/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $14,999/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Finance and Financial Management Services. | Bachelor | $18,771 | |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Bachelor | $17,717 | |
| Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology. | Bachelor | $16,394 | |
| Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other. | Bachelor | $10,925 |
The Risk Factor
40.2% of students at University of Puerto Rico-Carolina 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 Puerto Rico-Carolina delivers poor financial returns despite its low sticker price. With median earnings of just $30,626 ten years after graduation, you're looking at a payback period that stretches well beyond what most career-focused students should accept.
The school's academic completion problems compound the financial risk. Only 40% of students graduate, meaning you face significant odds of leaving with debt but no degree. Even among graduates who do finish, the earning potential remains severely limited across most programs.
Finance majors earn $18,771 annually after graduation, while business administration graduates make $17,717. These figures fall far below national averages for these fields and barely justify the time investment. Psychology graduates face even tougher prospects at $16,394, while interdisciplinary studies majors earn just $10,925.
The low median debt of $5,500 provides the only financial bright spot. You can minimize borrowing here more easily than at most institutions. However, the weak earning outcomes mean even this modest debt burden could prove challenging to repay on typical graduate salaries.
This school works financially only if you plan to stay in Puerto Rico long-term and can secure one of the limited higher-paying positions available locally. The combination of low completion rates, weak earnings, and limited career mobility makes UPR-Carolina a risky choice for students seeking strong financial returns on their education investment.
Consider this option only if you have specific local connections or career plans that don't require the earning power typically expected from a college degree.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is University of Puerto Rico-Carolina worth the cost for the low graduation rate?
With a 40% graduation rate, UPR-Carolina has significant completion risk that affects its value proposition. The low net price of $14,072 annually helps offset this concern, but students should have strong academic preparation and clear career goals before enrolling.
What programs at University of Puerto Rico-Carolina offer the best return on investment?
Finance programs lead with $18,771 median earnings, followed by business administration at $17,717. Psychology and interdisciplinary studies programs show lower earning potential at $16,394 and $10,925 respectively, which may not justify the time investment.
How much debt do University of Puerto Rico-Carolina graduates typically have?
Graduates carry a median debt of just $5,500, which is exceptionally low compared to national averages. This minimal debt load makes UPR-Carolina financially accessible, though the relatively low post-graduation earnings of $30,626 still limit overall ROI.
Does University of Puerto Rico-Carolina provide good value compared to other options?
The school offers decent value for students who complete their programs due to very low costs and minimal debt. However, the 40% graduation rate and below-average post-graduation earnings make it a higher-risk investment that works best for cost-conscious students with strong academic foundations.