Furman University ROI Analysis
Comprehensive ROI analysis based on tuition costs, graduate earnings, financial aid, and long-term earning potential.
Quick answer
USACollegeData.com ROI analysis (College Scorecard data): four years at Furman University costs about $233,248 in in-state tuition, and graduates earn a median of $50,796 five years after graduation — the investment breaks even in roughly 14.8 years (20-year ROI: 35%).
ROI Summary
Total 4-Year Cost
$233,248
In-state tuition x 4
Earnings Premium
$15,796/yr
above high school diploma avg
Break-Even Point
14.8 years
After graduation
20-Year ROI
35%
Return on investment
ROI Analysis
Furman University's high tuition of $58,312 contrasts with graduates' initial earnings. One year after graduation, the median earnings are $35,856. However, earnings increase over time, reaching $50,796 after five years and $68,635 after ten years. The median debt for graduates is $23,250, and 27.8% of students receive financial aid.
The debt-to-income ratio can be calculated using the median debt and the one-year earnings. The ratio is approximately 0.65. The break-even timeline, or the time it takes for earnings to surpass the initial tuition cost, is difficult to calculate precisely without additional data. However, given the tuition and the earnings trajectory, it would take several years for graduates to recoup their educational investment.
Generated from College Scorecard & IPEDS data
The Numbers
Annual Tuition (In-State)
$58,312
Median Debt at Graduation
$23,250
Median Earnings (5yr)
$50,796
Graduation Rate
84%
Receive Financial Aid
28%
Avg Aid Amount
N/A
Program-Level ROI
| Program | Median Earnings (5yr) | Est. 20yr ROI |
|---|---|---|
| Communication and Media Studies | $56,966 | 88% |
| Political Science and Government | $57,998 | 97% |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations | $64,242 | 151% |
| Psychology, General | $0 | N/A |
| Biology, General | $0 | N/A |
| Economics | $0 | N/A |
| English Language and Literature, General | $0 | N/A |
Peer Comparison
Financial Aid Impact
Before Aid
After Aid (Estimated)
Frequently Asked Questions
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.