University of Maryland-Baltimore County
Comprehensive ROI analysis based on tuition costs, graduate earnings, financial aid, and long-term earning potential.
ROI Summary
Total 4-Year Cost
$51,808
In-state tuition x 4
Earnings Premium
$20,137/yr
vs high school diploma avg
Break-Even Point
2.6 years
After graduation
20-Year ROI
677%
Return on investment
ROI Analysis
The University of Maryland-Baltimore County has a strong return on investment. One year after graduation, students earn $48,498, which is nearly four times the in-state tuition cost of $12,952. Five years after graduation, earnings increase to $55,137, and ten years after, they reach $69,960. The median debt for graduates is $19,500.
The debt-to-income ratio is favorable. With a median debt of $19,500 and a starting salary of $48,498, the debt represents approximately 40% of the first year's earnings. This suggests graduates can manage their debt effectively.
The break-even timeline is relatively short. Considering the tuition cost and the starting salary, graduates likely recoup their tuition investment within the first year of employment. The increasing earnings over time further solidify the financial benefits of attending the university.
Generated from College Scorecard & IPEDS data
The Numbers
Annual Tuition (In-State)
$12,952
Median Debt at Graduation
$19,500
Median Earnings (5yr)
$55,137
Graduation Rate
71%
Receive Financial Aid
29%
Avg Aid Amount
$0
Program-Level ROI
| Program | 4yr Cost | Median Earnings (5yr) | Est. 20yr ROI |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology, General. | $51,808 | $53,673 | 621% |
| Psychology, General. | $51,808 | $48,488 | 421% |
| Information Science/Studies. | $51,808 | $82,936 | 1751% |
| Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other. | $51,808 | $98,722 | 2360% |
| Information Science/Studies. | $51,808 | $114,259 | 2960% |
| Economics. | $51,808 | $68,275 | 1185% |
| Mechanical Engineering. | $51,808 | $82,502 | 1734% |
| Social Work. | $51,808 | $52,571 | 578% |
| Mathematics. | $51,808 | $74,668 | 1431% |
| Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management. | $51,808 | $61,985 | 942% |
| Political Science and Government. | $51,808 | $57,577 | 772% |
| Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences, Other. | $51,808 | $53,762 | 624% |
Peer Comparison
677%
20yr ROI
528%
20yr ROI
986%
20yr ROI
507%
20yr ROI
716%
20yr ROI
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.