Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $33,072 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $132,288 |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 43.5% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $21,500 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $33,159/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $31,771/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $29,285/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $32,995/yr |
| $110,001+ | $35,419/yr |
The Risk Factor
43.5% of students at University of Saint Katherine 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 Saint Katherine presents a challenging financial proposition with weak returns that make it difficult to recommend for most students. The combination of high net costs exceeding $33,000 annually and a concerning 43.5% graduation rate creates substantial financial risk for your investment.
The low graduation rate means you face a significant chance of accumulating debt without completing your degree, while those who do graduate often struggle with job placement in San Diego County's competitive market. The school's limited program offerings and small size restrict your access to strong alumni networks and career services that larger institutions provide.
Your financial aid prospects appear limited, with only 35% of students receiving assistance. The median debt load of $21,500 might seem manageable, but this figure only reflects students who actually graduate. Those who leave without degrees often carry similar debt burdens with no credential to show for it.
This school might work financially if you receive substantial merit aid or have family funding that eliminates borrowing needs. However, the weak graduation and retention rates suggest academic or institutional challenges that extend beyond pure financial considerations. Students seeking strong career outcomes in business, healthcare, or technology fields will find better ROI at regional public universities or established private colleges with proven track records.
The school's location in San Marcos provides access to San Diego's job market, but you'll compete against graduates from UC San Diego, San Diego State, and other regional institutions with stronger employer recognition. Unless you have compelling personal reasons to attend, your money will work harder at schools with higher graduation rates and established career placement programs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is University of Saint Katherine worth the cost?
University of Saint Katherine's ROI is concerning, with a 43.5% graduation rate and $33,072 annual net price. The low graduation rate means many students pay for education they don't complete, making the investment risky for most applicants.
What is the job outlook for University of Saint Katherine graduates?
With fewer than half of students graduating, University of Saint Katherine struggles to produce enough graduates to establish strong employment outcomes. The school's small size and low completion rates limit alumni networks and career placement resources.
How much debt do University of Saint Katherine students typically have?
University of Saint Katherine graduates who complete their degree carry a median debt of $21,500. However, the bigger financial risk is the 56.5% of students who don't graduate but still accumulate debt and education costs.
Which programs at University of Saint Katherine offer the best return on investment?
University of Saint Katherine's small size and low graduation rate make it difficult to identify specific programs with strong ROI. Students considering this school should carefully research job placement rates and starting salaries for their intended major before enrolling.