At $18,148/yr net price, Winona State University graduates earn $58,532/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $24,532/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $18,148 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $72,592 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $58,532/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$24,532/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 3 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 60.9% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $21,500 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $11,400/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $12,486/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $15,495/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $19,388/yr |
| $110,001+ | $21,306/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. | Doctoral | $116,083 | $44,750 |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Master | $105,678 | |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Bachelor | $65,101 | $21,787 |
| Clinical/Medical Laboratory Science/Research and Allied Professions. | Bachelor | $64,791 | |
| Computer Science. | Bachelor | $63,335 | $19,874 |
| Materials Engineering | Bachelor | $63,217 | $22,000 |
| Management Information Systems and Services. | Bachelor | $58,673 | $24,200 |
| Finance and Financial Management Services. | Bachelor | $51,392 | $20,410 |
| Accounting and Related Services. | Bachelor | $49,136 | $19,751 |
| Education, General. | Master | $47,930 |
The Risk Factor
60.9% of students at Winona State University graduate within 6 years. A significant share of students finish, but roughly 39% do not complete their degree.
Analysis
Winona State University delivers solid financial returns for specific career paths while leaving other majors financially underwhelming. Your earning potential depends heavily on your program choice at this Minnesota public university.
The nursing programs stand out as clear financial winners, with graduates earning up to $116,083 annually. Even with higher debt loads reaching $44,750 for some nursing specializations, the strong salaries justify the investment. Computer science also pays off well at $63,335 with manageable debt of $19,874, making it another smart financial choice.
However, many other programs fail to deliver strong returns given the regional job market in southeastern Minnesota. With median earnings of $58,532 across all graduates, you'll find limited high-paying opportunities outside healthcare and technology fields in this smaller market.
The school's 61% graduation rate creates significant financial risk. If you don't complete your degree, you'll carry debt without the earning boost that makes it worthwhile. The 78% retention rate suggests academic support exists, but nearly four in ten students still don't finish.
Winona State works best financially if you're pursuing nursing, computer science, or clinical laboratory science. The low percentage of students receiving aid (23%) suggests limited need-based assistance, so you'll likely pay close to the full net price of $18,148 annually.
Avoid this school if you're undecided about your major or interested in fields with weak regional job markets. The modest median debt of $21,500 helps, but only if you graduate in a program that actually pays off in the Twin Cities metro area or smaller Minnesota markets.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Winona State University worth the cost for most students?
Winona State University offers decent value with a net price of $18,148 and 10-year median earnings of $58,532. However, the 61% graduation rate means 4 in 10 students don't finish, which significantly impacts ROI for those who drop out.
What are the highest paying programs at Winona State University?
Nursing programs at Winona State University lead earnings with graduates making $65,101 to $116,083 annually. Computer Science and Clinical Laboratory Science also pay well at around $63,000-$64,000, making these programs the best financial bets at the school.
How much debt do Winona State University graduates typically have?
Winona State University graduates carry a median debt of $21,500, which is manageable compared to many schools. With typical starting salaries around $58,000, most graduates can handle this debt load if they complete their degree.
Does Winona State University have good financial aid?
With a net price of $18,148 for the average student, Winona State University provides reasonable financial aid that keeps costs below many four-year institutions. The relatively low debt levels suggest aid packages help most students avoid excessive borrowing.