Swarthmore College
Comprehensive ROI analysis based on tuition costs, graduate earnings, financial aid, and long-term earning potential.
ROI Summary
Total 4-Year Cost
$249,648
In-state tuition x 4
Earnings Premium
$21,211/yr
vs high school diploma avg
Break-Even Point
11.8 years
After graduation
20-Year ROI
70%
Return on investment
The Numbers
Annual Tuition (In-State)
$62,412
Median Debt at Graduation
$17,500
Median Earnings (5yr)
$56,211
Graduation Rate
94%
Receive Financial Aid
10%
Avg Aid Amount
$0
Program-Level ROI
| Program | 4yr Cost | Median Earnings (5yr) | Est. 20yr ROI |
|---|---|---|---|
| Economics. | $249,648 | $105,566 | 465% |
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | $249,648 | $157,852 | 884% |
| Biology, General. | $249,648 | $0 | N/A |
| Political Science and Government. | $249,648 | $80,009 | 261% |
| Mathematics. | $249,648 | $0 | N/A |
| Research and Experimental Psychology. | $249,648 | $0 | N/A |
| Engineering, General. | $249,648 | $0 | N/A |
| Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution. | $249,648 | $0 | N/A |
| Natural Resources Conservation and Research. | $249,648 | $0 | N/A |
| Education, Other. | $249,648 | $43,245 | -34% |
| History. | $249,648 | $0 | N/A |
| Fine and Studio Arts. | $249,648 | $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.