Gunnison, CO · Private University
Is Western Colorado University Worth It?
ROI analysis based on real earnings and cost data
Key Numbers
10-Year Earnings
$46,833
median, 10 years after enrollment
In-State Tuition
$11,083
per year
Out-of-State Tuition
$23,683
per year
Total 4-Year Cost
$94,732
tuition only (4 years)
ROI Ratio
1.98x
earnings ÷ annual tuition
Payback Period
8 yrs
years to recoup total cost
Graduation Rate
50.7%
6-year graduation rate
Median Debt
$20,250
at graduation
Avg Net Price
$16,773
after aid & scholarships
Earnings vs. Annual Cost
10-year median earnings compared to annual tuition
Western Colorado University graduates earn $1,833 more than the national median of workers with any education level.
What You'd Actually Pay
Average net price after grants and scholarships, by family income
Source: IPEDS net price data. Actual costs vary based on individual financial circumstances.
Highest-Earning Majors
Top programs at Western Colorado University ranked by graduate earnings
16 graduates
37 graduates
30 graduates
20 graduates
40 graduates
Earnings shown are 4-year post-graduation medians where available, otherwise 1-year medians.
ROI by Major at Western Colorado University
All available majors ranked by graduate earnings. Your major matters as much as your school.
| Major | Earnings | ROI |
|---|---|---|
| EconomicsBest ROI(1yr data) | $53,403 | 2.3x |
| Psychology, General | $46,875 | 2.0x |
| Health and Physical Education/Fitness | $44,827 | 1.9x |
| Accounting and Related Services | $44,548 | 1.9x |
| Biology, General | $44,090 | 1.9x |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations | $41,312 | 1.7x |
| Sociology | $37,385 | 1.6x |
| Natural Resources Conservation and Research | $31,313 | 1.3x |
| Political Science and Government(1yr data) | $30,272 | 1.3x |
| Parks, Recreation and Leisure StudiesLowest | $28,611 | 1.2x |
Earnings are 4-year post-graduation medians where available, otherwise 5-year or 1-year. ROI = earnings ÷ annual tuition.
The Bottom Line
Western Colorado University offers solid financial returns relative to its cost. Graduates earn $46,833 10 years after starting, $1,833 above the national median of $45,000. Graduates typically break even on their investment within 8 years, a reasonable timeline.
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Earnings data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Tuition data from IPEDS. ROI calculations are for informational purposes only and reflect median outcomes.