At $27,499/yr net price, University of Valley Forge graduates earn $39,016/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $5,016/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $27,499 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $109,996 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $39,016/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$5,016/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 21.9 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 56.1% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $27,000 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $22,957/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $26,349/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $27,104/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $28,860/yr |
| $110,001+ | $30,639/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business/Commerce, General. | Bachelor | $33,993 | |
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. | Bachelor | $30,771 | |
| Pastoral Counseling and Specialized Ministries. | Bachelor | $30,771 | |
| Theological and Ministerial Studies. | Bachelor | $29,685 | $27,000 |
| Radio, Television, and Digital Communication. | Bachelor | $27,204 | $27,000 |
The Risk Factor
56.1% of students at University of Valley Forge 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 Valley Forge delivers poor financial returns that make it difficult to justify the investment. Your median earnings of $39,016 ten years after graduation barely exceed what many high school graduates earn, while you'll carry $27,000 in debt from a school that costs nearly $28,000 annually after aid.
The earnings data reveals why this investment struggles. Even the highest-paying program, general business, produces graduates earning just $33,993. Education and ministry programs hover around $30,000, while communication majors earn only $27,204. These salaries create challenging debt-to-income ratios that will strain your budget for years.
The 56% graduation rate compounds the financial risk. More than four in ten students leave without a degree but potentially with debt. The 70% retention rate suggests many students recognize the poor value proposition early.
This school makes financial sense only if you're called to ministry or Christian education and view the degree as vocational training rather than an investment. The religious focus limits your career flexibility, making it harder to pivot if ministry work doesn't provide adequate income.
You should look elsewhere if earning potential matters to your decision. Community college transfer programs, state schools, or regional universities with stronger job placement records offer better returns. The high net price combined with weak graduate earnings creates a financial burden that will follow you well into your career. Only students with family wealth or those accepting ministry as a calling regardless of pay should consider Valley Forge from a financial perspective.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is University of Valley Forge worth the cost?
With 10-year earnings of $39,016 and a net price of $27,499 per year, University of Valley Forge offers below-average return on investment. The debt-to-income ratio makes it financially challenging for most graduates.
What are the best paying majors at University of Valley Forge?
Business and Commerce graduates earn the highest at $33,993 annually, while Radio, Television, and Digital Communication majors earn the lowest at $27,204. All program earnings are below national averages for college graduates.
How much debt do University of Valley Forge graduates have?
Median debt is $27,000, which represents about 69% of first-year earnings for graduates. This debt load is manageable compared to earnings, but the low salary levels make repayment slow.
What is University of Valley Forge's graduation rate and job outcomes?
The graduation rate is 56%, meaning nearly half of students don't finish their degree. Those who do graduate face limited earning potential, with most programs leading to salaries under $35,000.