At $16,353/yr net price, Winthrop University graduates earn $47,185/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $13,185/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $16,353 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $65,412 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $47,185/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$13,185/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 5 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 61.2% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $26,975 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $13,361/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $13,395/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $16,762/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $19,267/yr |
| $110,001+ | $20,653/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Educational Administration and Supervision. | Master | $56,641 | $33,997 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Master | $54,724 | $26,375 |
| Dietetics and Clinical Nutrition Services. | Certificate | $43,240 | $20,500 |
| Social Work. | Master | $42,123 | $41,000 |
| Curriculum and Instruction. | Master | $41,565 | |
| Chemistry. | Bachelor | $40,368 | $25,739 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Bachelor | $40,269 | $27,000 |
| Student Counseling and Personnel Services. | Master | $39,074 | $49,000 |
| Foods, Nutrition, and Related Services. | Master | $38,829 | |
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. | Master | $38,700 | $28,976 |
The Risk Factor
61.2% of students at Winthrop University graduate within 6 years. A significant share of students finish, but roughly 39% do not complete their degree.
Analysis
Winthrop University delivers below-average financial returns, with graduates earning a median $47,185 ten years after enrollment against a net price of $16,353 annually. The payback period stretches longer than most public universities, making this a financially risky choice for many students.
Business Administration offers the strongest return at $54,724 in median earnings with reasonable debt levels of $26,375. Educational Administration also pays well at $56,641, though you'll carry higher debt of $33,997. These programs justify their cost in South Carolina's job market. Social Work graduates face the worst financial outcome, earning just $42,123 while carrying $41,000 in debt.
The 61% graduation rate creates significant financial risk. Nearly four in ten students leave without a degree but still carry debt. The 73% retention rate signals academic and financial struggles that could derail your investment early.
You should consider Winthrop if you're pursuing business or education administration and can graduate in four years. The relatively low net price makes it affordable for South Carolina residents who stay on track academically. Skip this school if you're considering social work or if you're an at-risk student who might not finish.
Only 39% of students receive financial aid, suggesting limited need-based assistance. Focus on merit scholarships if your grades and test scores are above average. The school's location in Rock Hill provides access to Charlotte's job market, which helps offset the modest earning potential for some majors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Winthrop University worth the cost for the salary you'll earn?
With average 10-year earnings of $47,185 and median debt of $26,975, Winthrop graduates earn about $20,000 below the national average. The return on investment is weak compared to other four-year universities.
What are the best paying majors at Winthrop University?
Educational Administration and Business Administration lead with starting salaries around $55,000. Most other programs, including Social Work and Education, start closer to $42,000, which is low given the debt burden.
Is Winthrop University worth it for students who need financial aid?
The net price of $16,353 is reasonable for a public university. However, the 61% graduation rate means many students leave with debt but no degree, making it risky for students who aren't strong academically.
Should I choose Winthrop University over other South Carolina schools?
Winthrop's earnings outcomes lag behind USC and Clemson significantly. Consider it mainly if you're pursuing education or business and want a smaller campus environment, but expect lower financial returns.