At $12,684/yr net price, University of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez graduates earn $48,992/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $14,992/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $12,684 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $50,736 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $48,992/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$14,992/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 3.4 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 47.0% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $8,250 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $10,257/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $14,659/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $15,527/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $16,110/yr |
| $110,001+ | $16,166/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Engineering. | Bachelor | $71,734 | $10,300 |
| Computer Science. | Bachelor | $68,320 | |
| Mechanical Engineering. | Bachelor | $63,302 | $7,625 |
| Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering. | Bachelor | $62,579 | $10,000 |
| Chemical Engineering. | Bachelor | $54,463 | $7,000 |
| Civil Engineering. | Bachelor | $46,673 | $9,426 |
| Civil Engineering. | Master | $43,798 | $12,625 |
| Industrial Engineering. | Bachelor | $43,575 | $10,000 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Bachelor | $39,648 | $8,250 |
| Management Information Systems and Services. | Bachelor | $36,941 | $8,000 |
The Risk Factor
47.0% of students at University of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez 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-Mayaguez delivers strong financial returns for engineering and computer science majors but carries significant risks for other programs. The engineering programs generate strong value, with computer engineering graduates earning over $70,000 annually while carrying minimal debt burdens under $11,000.
The school's low graduation rate of 47% presents the biggest financial risk. If you don't graduate, your investment provides no degree-based return while you still carry debt. The 84% retention rate suggests most academic struggles happen later in your college career, making it important to assess your commitment to completing a challenging technical curriculum.
Your major choice determines your financial outcome at UPR-Mayaguez. Engineering disciplines provide clear payoffs with median earnings ranging from $54,000 to $71,000. Computer science also performs well at $68,000 annually. Programs outside engineering and computer science face limited opportunities in Puerto Rico's job market, making relocation likely necessary for career growth.
The school works best financially if you're committed to engineering or computer science and willing to handle rigorous coursework. The combination of low tuition costs and strong technical program outcomes creates genuine value for dedicated students. Nearly two-thirds of students receive financial aid, and the median debt load remains manageable at $8,250.
You should look elsewhere if you're uncertain about your major, prefer non-technical fields, or lack strong math and science preparation. The low graduation rate indicates many students struggle with the academic demands, and weak job prospects outside technical fields limit your backup options if you change majors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is University of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez worth the cost?
UPR-Mayaguez offers strong value for engineering students, with computer engineering graduates earning $71,734 annually while paying only $12,684 per year in net costs. However, the 47% graduation rate means many students don't finish their degrees, which eliminates any ROI benefit.
What are the highest paying majors at University of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez?
Computer engineering ($71,734), computer science ($68,320), and mechanical engineering ($63,302) offer the best earning potential at UPR-Mayaguez. These engineering programs provide solid returns given the low tuition costs.
How much debt do University of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez graduates have?
UPR-Mayaguez graduates have a median debt of only $8,250, which is significantly lower than most universities. This low debt burden makes the school affordable even for graduates earning the median of $48,992 annually.
What is the graduation rate at University of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez?
Only 47% of students graduate from UPR-Mayaguez, meaning more than half don't complete their degrees. Students considering this school need to honestly assess their ability to finish, as dropping out eliminates any financial benefits.