Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $27,382/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | $-6,618/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chiropractic. | Doctoral | $49,752 | $201,184 |
| Dietetics and Clinical Nutrition Services. | Master | $47,260 | $39,394 |
| Somatic Bodywork and Related Therapeutic Services. | Certificate | $25,372 |
Analysis
The financial picture at University of Western States is hard to read from the numbers you just saw. The $27,382 median earnings ten years after entry is low,below what many bachelor's graduates earn and close to what full-time work at modest wages pays. That figure alone should give you pause if you're weighing this school as an undergraduate investment.
There's a reason for the low number that changes how you should read it. University of Western States is a graduate-focused health sciences school in Portland, built around chiropractic, and its degree offerings sit at the master's, doctoral, and certificate level. The earnings figure here reflects the full mix of students who entered, and it does not map cleanly onto any single undergraduate degree, because the school's core programs are not four-year bachelor's tracks.
That makes the ROI question different for you. If you're looking for a traditional undergraduate degree with a strong salary payoff, the reported earnings here do not support that, and you should look elsewhere. If you're entering a graduate health program, the ten-year median for the overall student body tells you little about your specific credential's payoff, and you'd need program-level earnings for your exact degree before committing.
The clearest risk specific to this school is cost relative to the earnings on record. A private-nonprofit price paired with a $27,382 median means the debt-to-income math can go badly if you borrow heavily and your program's earnings track the overall figure.
Before you enroll, ask for earnings data tied to your specific credential and check the net price tiers for your family's income band. The single published earnings number is not enough to judge whether your program pays off.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is University of Western States worth the cost for chiropractic school?
The chiropractic program at University of Western States produces graduates earning around $49,752 annually after 10 years, which is modest for a doctoral program requiring significant student loans. Consider the debt-to-income ratio carefully before enrolling.
What is the return on investment for University of Western States graduates?
University of Western States graduates earn an average of $27,382 ten years after graduation, which is below the national average for college graduates. Only the chiropractic and dietetics programs show earnings above $45,000.
Are University of Western States programs worth the student debt?
Most University of Western States programs lead to relatively low earnings compared to typical graduate school debt loads. The somatic bodywork program shows particularly concerning ROI with graduates earning just $25,372 annually.
Which University of Western States degree programs have the best job prospects?
Chiropractic and dietetics programs at University of Western States offer the strongest earning potential at around $49,000-$47,000 annually. Other programs generally lead to lower-paying careers that may not justify the cost of attendance.