At $14,738/yr net price, Worcester State University graduates earn $60,624/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $26,624/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $14,738 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $58,952 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $60,624/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$26,624/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 2.2 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 55.5% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $19,500 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $9,035/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $10,061/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $12,665/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $17,378/yr |
| $110,001+ | $19,939/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 | $84,653 | |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Bachelor | $68,821 | $19,500 |
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. | Master | $56,776 | |
| Biotechnology. | Bachelor | $55,547 | $17,455 |
| Communication Disorders Sciences and Services. | Master | $54,974 | $21,166 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Master | $53,775 | |
| Chemistry. | Bachelor | $49,644 | |
| Economics. | Bachelor | $46,673 | |
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | Bachelor | $46,087 | $20,500 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Bachelor | $42,580 | $19,500 |
The Risk Factor
55.5% of students at Worcester State 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
Worcester State University delivers solid financial value for a public institution, with a low net price of $14,738 annually and reasonable debt loads for most graduates. Your return depends heavily on your major choice and career goals within Massachusetts' job market.
Nursing programs stand out as clear financial winners, with graduates earning over $84,000 within ten years while carrying typical debt levels. This makes Worcester State particularly attractive if you want nursing credentials without the premium price of private colleges. Education majors also see respectable returns at $56,776, reflecting steady demand for teachers in Massachusetts school districts.
The university's 55% graduation rate presents the biggest financial risk. You face nearly even odds of completing your degree, making program selection and academic preparation critical. Students who struggle academically or lack clear career focus should consider whether they can handle the workload and stay motivated through four years.
Worcester State works best financially if you live in Massachusetts, plan to work regionally after graduation, and choose a program with clear career pathways like nursing, education, or healthcare. The low sticker price makes it a smart choice for students seeking affordable access to professional programs.
Avoid Worcester State if you need extensive academic support services, want strong brand recognition, or plan to pursue majors not among their strongest offerings. The limited financial aid percentage suggests merit scholarships may be scarce, so middle-income families should verify actual costs before committing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Worcester State University worth the cost?
Worcester State University offers decent value with a low net price of $14,738 and moderate debt levels at $19,500. However, the 55% graduation rate means nearly half of students don't finish, which significantly impacts ROI for those who don't graduate.
What are the highest paying majors at Worcester State University?
Nursing programs at Worcester State University lead earnings with graduates making $68,000-$84,000 annually. Education and communication disorders follow at around $55,000-$57,000, while other programs typically earn less than the school's overall average of $60,624.
How much debt do Worcester State University graduates have?
Worcester State University graduates carry a median debt of $19,500, which is manageable compared to the national average. The relatively low cost of attendance helps keep borrowing reasonable for most students.
What is the job market like for Worcester State University graduates?
Worcester State University graduates earn $60,624 ten years after graduation, which is modest but reflects the school's focus on public service careers like teaching and nursing. Job prospects vary significantly by major, with healthcare programs offering the strongest earning potential.