At $19,969/yr net price, University of the Southwest graduates earn $45,389/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $11,389/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $19,969 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $79,876 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $45,389/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$11,389/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 7 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 26.7% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $21,303 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $17,598/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $18,554/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $22,163/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $22,814/yr |
| $110,001+ | $23,279/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Student Counseling and Personnel Services. | Master | $47,650 | $41,000 |
| Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions. | Master | $47,260 | $71,750 |
The Risk Factor
26.7% of students at University of the Southwest graduate within 6 years. Fewer than half of students complete their degree. If you don't graduate, the financial investment may not pay off.
Analysis
University of the Southwest delivers poor financial returns with a 26.7% graduation rate that makes the investment risky for most students. Your median debt of $21,303 is reasonable, but median earnings of $45,389 ten years after entry create a weak payback scenario when combined with the high dropout risk.
Student Counseling and Mental Health programs offer the strongest earning potential at around $47,000 annually, though the Mental Health track saddles you with $71,750 in debt that undermines its value proposition. Most other programs at this New Mexico institution struggle to justify their costs given the regional job market limitations and the school's academic performance issues.
The 53% retention rate signals serious problems with student support and program quality that should concern you financially. When half of students leave after freshman year, you face significant risk of paying tuition without earning a degree. The remote Hobbs location limits internship and networking opportunities that could boost post-graduation prospects.
This school might work financially if you qualify for substantial merit aid that drives your net cost well below the $19,969 average, live locally to avoid housing costs, and pursue one of the few higher-earning programs. However, most students should look elsewhere given the combination of weak graduation rates, limited program strength, and geographic isolation that constrains career opportunities after graduation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is University of the Southwest worth the cost for most students?
University of the Southwest has concerning ROI metrics with a 27% graduation rate and median earnings of $45,389 ten years after enrollment. The $19,969 annual net price may not justify these outcomes for most students compared to other options.
What are the best paying programs at University of the Southwest?
Student counseling programs and mental health services offer the strongest earnings potential at around $47,000-$47,650 annually. These programs slightly outperform the school's overall graduate earnings average of $45,389.
How much debt do University of the Southwest graduates typically have?
Graduates carry a median debt of $21,303, which is manageable compared to national averages. However, the low graduation rate means many students may accumulate debt without completing their degree.
Does University of the Southwest have a good graduation rate?
No, University of the Southwest has a 27% graduation rate, meaning nearly three-quarters of students don't finish their degree. This significantly increases the risk of taking on debt without the earning benefits of a completed degree.