At $13,046/yr net price, Washburn University graduates earn $49,774/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $15,774/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $13,046 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $52,184 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $49,774/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$15,774/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 3.3 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 52.6% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $18,127 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $9,589/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $10,136/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $13,702/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $17,518/yr |
| $110,001+ | $17,323/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Master | $99,069 | |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Master | $71,015 | $26,200 |
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | Bachelor | $64,493 | |
| Accounting and Related Services. | Master | $62,012 | |
| Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions. | Certificate | $56,776 | $9,500 |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Bachelor | $54,812 | $22,062 |
| Law. | Doctoral | $52,542 | $77,330 |
| Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions. | Bachelor | $50,856 | $18,622 |
| Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions. | Associate | $50,270 | $18,500 |
| Heavy/Industrial Equipment Maintenance Technologies. | Certificate | $47,260 |
The Risk Factor
52.6% of students at Washburn University 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
Washburn University delivers solid returns for career-focused students, with nursing and business programs generating earnings that far exceed the modest debt loads typical here. The $13,046 annual net price keeps student borrowing manageable across most majors, creating favorable debt-to-income ratios even for graduates entering lower-paying fields.
Nursing stands out as the clear financial winner, with graduates earning $99,069 annually against minimal debt burdens. Business administration and computer science also provide strong returns, though business majors carry slightly higher debt at $26,200. Allied health programs offer another smart path with decent earnings of $56,776 and strongly low debt of just $9,500.
The school's 52.6% graduation rate poses the biggest financial risk. If you struggle with college completion, you could end up with debt but no degree. The 69% retention rate suggests many students leave after freshman year, making your first-year performance important for long-term financial success.
Washburn works best financially if you target one of the high-earning programs and can handle the completion challenge. The low sticker price makes it accessible, but avoid programs not listed among the top earners unless you have clear career plans. Students considering liberal arts or education fields should carefully evaluate whether the modest earnings potential justifies even this affordable investment.
With only 30.5% of students receiving aid, merit scholarships may be limited. Focus on in-state residency advantages and completing your degree in four years to maximize your financial return. The regional job market in Kansas supports the healthcare and business focus that drives this school's strongest outcomes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Washburn University worth the cost?
Washburn University offers reasonable value with a low net price of $13,046 annually and modest debt levels around $18,127. However, the 53% graduation rate and $49,774 median earnings suggest mixed outcomes that depend heavily on your chosen program.
What are the best paying majors at Washburn University?
Nursing programs at Washburn University lead earnings at $99,069, followed by business administration at $71,015. Computer science and accounting graduates earn $64,493 and $62,012 respectively, making these programs the strongest financial choices.
How much debt do Washburn University students typically have?
Washburn University students graduate with a median debt of $18,127, which is relatively low compared to national averages. The affordable tuition helps keep borrowing manageable for most students.
Does Washburn University have good job placement after graduation?
Washburn University's 53% graduation rate indicates that nearly half of students don't complete their degrees, which raises concerns about overall student success. Job outcomes vary significantly by program, with nursing and business showing stronger employment prospects.