At $18,762/yr net price, University of St Thomas graduates earn $59,224/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $25,224/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $18,762 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $75,048 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $59,224/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$25,224/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 3 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 68.6% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $19,928 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $17,830/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $17,460/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $16,635/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $19,337/yr |
| $110,001+ | $26,466/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas. | Master | $68,219 | |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Bachelor | $63,997 | $22,250 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Master | $63,005 | $50,257 |
| Education, General. | Master | $56,208 | $33,500 |
The Risk Factor
68.6% of students at University of St Thomas graduate within 6 years. A significant share of students finish, but roughly 31% do not complete their degree.
Analysis
University of St Thomas offers solid but not spectacular financial returns, with graduates earning a median of $59,224 ten years after enrollment against a net price of $18,762 annually. The numbers work best if you can graduate, but the 68.6% graduation rate means roughly one in three students leave without a degree.
Your major choice makes a significant difference here. Teacher education leads earnings at $68,219, while nursing graduates earn $63,997 with manageable debt of $22,250. Business administration also hits $63,005 but comes with concerning debt levels of $50,257. General education graduates face the weakest return at $56,208 with $33,500 in debt.
The school's biggest financial risk is its retention problem. Nearly 27% of students don't return for sophomore year, suggesting either poor fit or financial strain. If you struggle academically or financially early on, you could join the significant group that leaves empty-handed.
St Thomas works financially if you target high-return majors like teaching or nursing and can handle the academic demands. The relatively low net price helps, especially compared to other private institutions. However, if you're considering business or education, scrutinize the debt-to-earnings ratios carefully.
With only 38% of students receiving aid, merit opportunities appear limited. Your best financial strategy involves choosing a strong-earning major and ensuring you can complete the degree. Students who need extensive financial support or lack confidence in finishing college should consider more affordable public options with better retention rates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is University of St Thomas Houston worth the tuition cost?
University of St Thomas Houston offers decent value with a net price of $18,762 and graduates earning $59,224 after 10 years. The relatively low debt load of $19,928 makes it more affordable than many private schools, though the 68% graduation rate is concerning.
What are the highest paying majors at University of St Thomas Houston?
Teacher education programs lead with $68,219 in earnings, followed by nursing at $63,997 and business administration at $63,005. These programs offer solid returns that justify the investment.
How much student debt do University of St Thomas Houston graduates have?
The median debt is $19,928, which is manageable compared to national averages. With starting salaries around $59,224, most graduates should be able to handle their loan payments.
Does University of St Thomas Houston have good financial aid?
The net price of $18,762 suggests decent financial aid since the sticker price is higher. However, with a 96% acceptance rate, the school may not have the endowment resources of more selective institutions.