At $18,868/yr net price, University of the Potomac-Washington DC Campus graduates earn $34,961/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $961/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $18,868 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $75,472 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $34,961/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$961/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 78.5 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 50.0% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $8,769 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $17,558/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $20,178/yr |
The Risk Factor
50.0% of students at University of the Potomac-Washington DC Campus 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 the Potomac-Washington DC Campus delivers weak financial returns that should give you pause. With median earnings of just $34,961 ten years after enrollment, graduates earn roughly $17,000 below the national average for college graduates despite paying $18,868 annually in net costs.
The school's 50% graduation rate means half of students never complete their degrees, yet still carry debt from their time enrolled. Even successful graduates face steep financial headwinds with earnings barely exceeding what many high school graduates achieve in the DC metro area's competitive job market.
Your debt load will likely remain manageable at $8,769 median, but this reflects the reality that many students drop out before accumulating significant borrowing. The 26% financial aid rate suggests limited institutional support for students struggling with costs.
This school works financially only if you have specific career goals that align with their professional programs and need the flexibility of their adult-focused schedule. You should have clear employment prospects lined up or existing industry connections in the DC area. The location provides access to federal jobs and contracting opportunities, but you'll compete against graduates from stronger regional programs.
Skip this option if you're a traditional college student with other affordable choices. The combination of low earnings, modest graduation rates, and limited financial aid creates substantial risk for weak returns. Consider community college transfer programs or in-state public universities that offer better value propositions for similar career outcomes in the Washington DC job market.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is University of the Potomac-Washington DC Campus worth the cost?
University of the Potomac-Washington DC Campus has below-average returns with graduates earning $34,961 ten years after enrollment despite paying $18,868 annually. The 50% graduation rate means half of students don't finish their degree.
What is the average salary after graduating from University of the Potomac-Washington DC Campus?
Graduates from University of the Potomac-Washington DC Campus earn a median of $34,961 ten years after starting school. This salary is relatively low compared to the annual cost of attendance.
How much debt do students typically have from University of the Potomac-Washington DC Campus?
Students who borrow at University of the Potomac-Washington DC Campus graduate with a median debt of $8,769. While this debt level is manageable, the low post-graduation earnings make repayment challenging.
What is the graduation rate at University of the Potomac-Washington DC Campus?
University of the Potomac-Washington DC Campus has a 50% graduation rate, meaning only half of students complete their degree. This high dropout rate increases the financial risk for students who may leave with debt but no degree.