At $26,984/yr net price, Wheaton College graduates earn $63,756/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $29,756/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $26,984 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $107,936 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $63,756/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$29,756/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 3.6 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 86.6% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $23,250 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $17,966/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $18,623/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $20,430/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $24,968/yr |
| $110,001+ | $35,320/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Science. | Bachelor | $61,516 | |
| Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology. | Doctoral | $57,318 | $129,614 |
| Mathematics. | Bachelor | $49,683 | |
| Business/Managerial Economics. | Bachelor | $48,667 | $24,000 |
| Economics. | Bachelor | $46,087 | $21,000 |
| International Relations and National Security Studies. | Bachelor | $45,696 | $23,250 |
| Theological and Ministerial Studies. | Master | $39,049 | |
| Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology. | Master | $39,009 | $40,125 |
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. | Bachelor | $37,856 | $25,000 |
| Communication and Media Studies. | Bachelor | $37,748 | $23,250 |
The Risk Factor
86.6% of students at Wheaton College graduate within 6 years. Most students who start here finish their degree.
Analysis
Wheaton College delivers solid but unspectacular financial returns, with graduates earning a median $63,756 ten years out against a net price of $26,984 annually. The math works for most students, though your major choice makes a significant difference in outcomes.
Computer science leads the earnings pack, but even the top program barely cracks $61,000 in median earnings. Psychology majors face a harsh reality: median debt of nearly $130,000 for annual earnings of just $57,318. Business and economics graduates see more reasonable debt loads around $21,000-24,000, making these programs better financial bets despite lower absolute earnings.
The school's Christian liberal arts focus limits high-paying career paths compared to universities with strong engineering or finance programs. You pay private college prices for outcomes that often match quality public universities. The 86% graduation rate helps ensure you complete your degree, but the regional Midwest job market may cap earning potential for many majors.
Wheaton works financially if you receive substantial merit aid or come from a family that values the Christian environment enough to justify the premium. The school awards aid to only 20% of students, so most families pay close to full price. If you need significant financial aid or want maximum earning potential, state universities or colleges in major metropolitan areas offer better value.
Avoid psychology and counseling programs unless you plan advanced degrees with clear career paths. Stick to computer science, business, or economics if ROI drives your decision. The strong alumni network helps with job placement, but cannot overcome the fundamental math of high costs and modest regional salaries.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Wheaton College worth the cost?
Wheaton College graduates earn $63,756 ten years after graduation with median debt of $23,250, making the financial return reasonable but not exceptional. The net price of $26,984 per year is manageable compared to many private colleges, though public options typically offer better value.
What are the highest paying majors at Wheaton College?
Computer Science leads with $61,516 average earnings, followed by Clinical Psychology at $57,318. Business and Economics majors earn in the mid-$40,000s, which is below the national average for those fields.
How much debt do Wheaton College students graduate with?
The median debt load is $23,250, which is manageable given the school's graduation outcomes. With 10-year earnings of $63,756, most graduates can handle this debt level without major financial strain.
Does Wheaton College have good job placement after graduation?
The 86.6% graduation rate suggests most students complete their degrees, but the 10-year earnings of $63,756 are modest for a private college education. Students in technical fields like Computer Science see better returns than those in liberal arts programs.