At $10,017/yr net price, University of Washington-Tacoma Campus graduates earn $78,466/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $44,466/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $10,017 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $40,068 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $78,466/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$44,466/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 0.9 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 62.3% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $14,615 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $4,709/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $5,936/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $7,900/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $16,772/yr |
| $110,001+ | $22,095/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Master | $127,652 | $58,052 |
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | Master | $122,038 | $36,600 |
| Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management. | Master | $99,072 | $40,174 |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Master | $95,549 | $33,752 |
| Education, General. | Doctoral | $88,195 | |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Bachelor | $72,152 | $12,500 |
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | Bachelor | $71,575 | $15,127 |
| Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering. | Bachelor | $70,961 | $14,000 |
| Accounting and Related Services. | Master | $67,130 | $20,500 |
| Educational Administration and Supervision. | Master | $63,997 | $35,140 |
The Risk Factor
62.3% of students at University of Washington-Tacoma Campus graduate within 6 years. A significant share of students finish, but roughly 38% do not complete their degree.
Analysis
University of Washington-Tacoma delivers strong ROI potential with a low net price and solid earning outcomes, but your major choice determines everything. The campus sits in a recovering regional job market where tech companies and healthcare systems actively recruit, giving graduates direct pipeline access to well-paying positions.
Business Administration and Computer Science majors see strong returns, with median earnings exceeding $120,000 annually. Nursing graduates earn nearly $96,000 with manageable debt loads under $34,000. These programs tap directly into Tacoma's expanding healthcare sector and Seattle's nearby tech corridor. Education majors face a tougher financial equation with $88,000 earnings that may not justify even modest debt loads given regional teacher salary constraints.
Your biggest risk comes from the 62% graduation rate, meaning nearly four in ten students leave without degrees but often with debt. The 78% retention rate suggests first-year struggles predict departure. If you're academically borderline or lack clear career focus, consider starting at a community college first.
This campus works best for Washington residents who can leverage the low in-state costs and strong alumni networks in Seattle-Tacoma businesses. Out-of-state students should look elsewhere unless pursuing the high-earning tech or business programs. The modest debt loads make this particularly attractive for first-generation college students or career changers who need affordable access to quality programs.
Focus on merit aid through the university's competitive scholarship programs, which can reduce costs further. The combination of low sticker price and strong regional employment connections creates genuine opportunity, but only if you complete your degree in a marketable field.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is University of Washington-Tacoma Campus worth the cost?
With a net price of $10,017 per year and median earnings of $78,466 after 10 years, UW-Tacoma offers solid value for most students. The relatively low debt load of $14,615 makes it financially manageable compared to many four-year schools.
What are the highest paying majors at University of Washington-Tacoma Campus?
Business Administration ($127,652) and Computer Science ($122,038) provide the strongest ROI at UW-Tacoma. Nursing ($95,549) and Education ($88,195) offer decent returns but lower than the business and tech programs.
How much debt do University of Washington-Tacoma Campus graduates have?
The median debt is $14,615, which is manageable given the school's affordable net price. This low debt burden helps graduates avoid the payment struggles common at more expensive schools.
What is the graduation rate at University of Washington-Tacoma Campus?
The graduation rate is 62.30%, which is below the national average for four-year schools. This means nearly 4 in 10 students don't finish their degree, creating risk for those who accumulate debt without graduating.