Denison University
Comprehensive ROI analysis based on tuition costs, graduate earnings, financial aid, and long-term earning potential.
ROI Summary
Total 4-Year Cost
$256,000
In-state tuition x 4
Earnings Premium
$16,352/yr
vs high school diploma avg
Break-Even Point
15.7 years
After graduation
20-Year ROI
28%
Return on investment
ROI Analysis
Denison University's high tuition of $64,000 per year contrasts with its graduates' earnings. One year after graduation, the median salary is $38,519, which increases to $51,352 after five years, and $67,753 after ten years. With a median debt of $26,000, the debt-to-income ratio is relatively favorable, especially considering the long-term earnings potential.
The provided data does not allow for a precise break-even timeline calculation. However, the initial earnings are less than the annual tuition cost, suggesting that it would take several years for graduates to recoup their educational investment. The earnings increase over time, which indicates a positive return on investment.
Generated from College Scorecard & IPEDS data
The Numbers
Annual Tuition (In-State)
$64,000
Median Debt at Graduation
$26,000
Median Earnings (5yr)
$51,352
Graduation Rate
82%
Receive Financial Aid
52%
Avg Aid Amount
$0
Program-Level ROI
| Program | 4yr Cost | Median Earnings (5yr) | Est. 20yr ROI |
|---|---|---|---|
| Communication and Media Studies. | $256,000 | $52,234 | 35% |
| Economics. | $256,000 | $69,793 | 172% |
| Biology, General. | $256,000 | $48,727 | 7% |
| Research and Experimental Psychology. | $256,000 | $0 | N/A |
| International Business. | $256,000 | $0 | N/A |
| Political Science and Government. | $256,000 | $59,094 | 88% |
| Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods. | $256,000 | $0 | N/A |
| Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics. | $256,000 | $42,411 | -42% |
| Natural Resources Conservation and Research. | $256,000 | $55,445 | 60% |
| Education, General. | $256,000 | $39,480 | -65% |
| Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology. | $256,000 | $0 | N/A |
| History. | $256,000 | $0 | N/A |
Peer Comparison
Financial Aid Impact
Before Aid
After Aid (Estimated)
Methodology
ROI calculations are based on data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. The earnings premium is calculated as the difference between median graduate earnings and the national average earnings for high school diploma holders ($35,000).
The 20-year ROI formula: ((Earnings Premium x 20) - Total Cost) / Total Cost x 100. Break-even point: Total Cost / Annual Earnings Premium. All figures use in-state tuition and do not account for inflation, opportunity cost, or financial aid variations.