The overview
Using the most recent data from the 2021-22 academic year, the analysis from the Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce shows that Alvin College graduates earn an average of $276,000 over a 10-year period following graduation.
“Our programs provide graduates with a degree that has high earning potential while also giving them the first step in advancing their education,” President Robert J. Exley said.
Zooming out
The study evaluated more than 4,600 institutions nationwide, including 90 public colleges and universities across Texas, using information from the U.S. Department of Education’s College Scorecard.
The median ROI for Texas public institutions was $184,770, while the national average stood at $149,000.
How it’s calculated
ROI is determined by subtracting the average total cost of earning a degree from students’ median earnings over a 10-year period, according to the Georgetown University analysis.
The analysis uses the following data from the U.S. Department of Education’s College Scorecard:
- Students’ median earnings six, eight and 10 years after enrollment
- The institution’s average net price
- The institution’s most commonly awarded degree
Researchers noted that several factors can influence an institution’s ROI, including graduation rates, the availability of STEM-related degree programs and the number of students receiving financial aid.
Furthermore, ROI can vary among graduates, even those of the same program and institution, due to individual differences in out-of-pocket costs, time enrolled and post-enrollment earnings.
For more information about the study, visit https://cew.georgetown.edu.
