Venturing into college is an absolute must for certain industries, but beware! Not all colleges are worth their weight in gold. Shockingly, PayScale data reveals negative returns on investment, even two decades into your professional journey. Intrigued? Uncover the colleges that are simply not worth it!
The Truth About College Costs: These 30 Schools Are Not Worth The Debt
Columbia International University – Columbia, South Carolina
Think Columbia International University is in the heart of New York? Surprise! It’s actually Columbia University. But here’s the real shocker: the price tag for a four-year degree at Columbia International is a fraction of the cost compared to its Ivy League counterpart. Yet, post-graduation earning potential tells a different story. PayScale reveals a grim return on investment of -$115,700 for grads. Don’t let the small size fool you, this multi-denominational Christian college, nestled in Columbia, South Carolina, is home to just 620 students.
Columbia International University – Columbia, South Carolina
Mississippi Valley State University – Itta Bena, Mississippi
Mississippi Valley State University boasts a renowned football team and an awe-inspiring marching band. Fun fact: Jerry Rice, the legendary NFL wide receiver, walked these same halls. Now, while not everyone can achieve Jerry Rice-level greatness (hence his massive paycheck), it’s worth noting that he earned a jaw-dropping million-dollar return on investment over 20 years. But hey, let’s be real—students shouldn’t expect the same sweet payday. In fact, according to calculations, the 20-year return on a four-year degree costing $75,700 paints a slightly gloomier picture: a whopping -$174,800. Yikes!
Mississippi Valley State University – Itta Bena, Mississippi
Wilson College – Chambersburg, Pennsylvania
Nestled on a sprawling 300-acre campus near Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, Wilson College holds a remarkable history. For nearly 144 years, it stood as the first women’s liberal arts institution in the United States, a testament to the pioneering vision of its founder, Sarah Wilson. Since 2013, Wilson College has proudly embraced male students, broadening its horizons. But the burning question remains: why choose this institution when the 20-year average return on investment paints a grim picture at -$86,700? Surprisingly, tuition fees soar up to $156,000 for a four-year education, leaving us with a perplexing statistic – only 39% of students manage to graduate within that timeframe. Let’s delve further into the story behind these numbers.
Wilson College – Chambersburg, Pennsylvania
St. Andrews University – Laurinburg, North Carolina
Imagine spending four years at St. Andrews University, where tuition costs a hefty $167,000 USD. But wait, there’s a catch! The student-to-faculty ratio is an impressive 12 to one, ensuring personalized attention. Located in the charming town of Laurinburg, North Carolina, it’s a promising place for higher education. However, be warned: graduating from this institution doesn’t guarantee you’ll be rolling in millions. In fact, the projected return on investment after 20 years is a staggering -$98,800. On a brighter note, since 2013, they’ve been offering Master’s degrees in business administration, so there’s hope that some of their graduates will bring glory to the school.
St. Andrews University – Laurinburg, North Carolina
Stillman College – Tuscaloosa, Alabama
Nestled in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, Stillman College offers a close-knit community for 615 students who crave an intimate atmosphere amidst the University of Alabama’s grand presence. Here, you can savor the best of both worlds – experiencing the vibrant energy of UA parties while enjoying the personalized attention of a small school. However, bear in mind that the investment might be substantial, with a four-year tuition of $98,700 and a graduation rate of only 23%. Though the 20-year return on investment may initially seem dismal at -$80,400, the value gained from this unique experience extends far beyond mere numbers.
Stillman College – Tuscaloosa, Alabama
Unity College – Unity, Maine
Many individuals aspire to make a meaningful impact on the world during their college years, and Unity College in Unity, Maine, offers that chance to countless students. By choosing environmental studies, students receive an education rooted in sustainability, empowering them to shape a better future. However, what the school fails to deliver is a pathway to lucrative careers. Surprisingly, according to PayScale, the 20-year return on investment stands at a staggering $-82,100. Although the graduation rate surpasses 50%, the hefty price tag of $151,000 for a four-year degree raises eyebrows.
Unity College – Unity, Maine
Rust College – Holly Springs, Mississippi
At Rust College, the competition is fierce with only a 43% acceptance rate. With a limited number of seats at this historic black college in Holly Springs, Mississippi, it’s no wonder why applicants outnumber availability. But here’s the good part: it’s surprisingly affordable! With tuition and fees at less than $10,000 annually (a steal in the United States), Rust College offers a great education without breaking the bank. However, let’s talk about that ROI. After 20 years, a four-year degree (including room and board) will cost you a hefty $63,400, leaving you with a negative return on investment of -$97,100. Ouch! It’s time for a financial reevaluation.
Rust College – Holly Springs, Mississippi
Shaw University – Raleigh, North Carolina
Shaw University, fondly known as the “mother of African-American colleges,” has a rich history that dates back to its founding in 1865. It started as a place to educate freedmen, eventually transforming into the vibrant private arts university it is today. While its name carries great significance, let’s address the elephant in the room: a disappointing -$93,600 20-year return on investment. With a hefty $118,000 price tag for a four-year degree, even the charm of Raleigh cannot justify such a lackluster ROI.
Shaw University – Raleigh, North Carolina
Emory & Henry College – Emory, Virginia
While Emory & Henry College boasts some accomplished graduates, it’s important not to confuse it with Emory University in Georgia. Although not all alumni find their fortunes after graduating from Emory & Henry, let’s delve into the numbers. Picture this: Emory University shines with a remarkable 91% graduation rate and a staggering $452,000 return on investment after two decades. On the other hand, Emory & Henry, located in scenic Emory, Virginia, unfortunately falls short with a disappointing -$91,300 return. Let the statistics speak for themselves!
Emory & Henry College – Emory, Virginia
Saint Augustine’s University – Raleigh, North Carolina
“Truth has the power to set you free,” as famously said by Saint Augustine. Yet, when it comes to Raleigh University, the truth isn’t as liberating. Shockingly, a mere 24% of students manage to complete their studies within the intended four-year timeframe. With a staggering price tag of $129,000 for a four-year degree, this investment seems far from reasonable. We’re talking about a jaw-dropping -$77,700 return on investment here! Just think about it, that’s enough to purchase a home in many areas. With less than a thousand students enrolled, one can only hope they gained something truly worthwhile out of their experience at Raleigh University.
Saint Augustine’s University – Raleigh, North Carolina
Cazenovia College – Cazenovia, New York
Cazenovia College, nestled near Syracuse, New York, in the charming town of Cazenovia. It’s a place where knowledge blooms and dreams come to life. At Cazenovia, the academic team of 154 dedicated experts stands tall, ready to empower the 915 undergraduate warriors. Yes, the numbers may seem disparate, but the value it brings is immeasurable. With a transformative liberal arts education and an exceptional teacher-to-student ratio, the college paints a promising future. Though the price tag of $184,000 may raise eyebrows, it’s the investment in oneself that yields immeasurable treasures. And who knows, maybe Leland Stanford, an esteemed alumnus, was inspired by his time here to shape Stanford University, where he aimed to deliver a stellar return on investment for students. The legacy lives on.
Cazenovia College – Cazenovia, New York
Voorhees College – Denmark, South Carolina
Nestled in Denmark, South Carolina, Voorhees College resides in the heart of the state. With a population of just over 3,000, this small town embraces education, serving as a home to 600 ambitious students. Though regarded highly for its rich academic history, success isn’t always measured by dollar signs. Merely 26% of students graduate within four years, while a four-year degree carries a hefty price tag of $97,000. Surprisingly, after two decades, the average return on investment stands at -$153,400. It’s enough to make you wonder: what’s the secret behind the adoration for this beloved institution?
Voorhees College – Denmark, South Carolina
Paine College – Augusta, Georgia
Paine College, once the training ground of the first African-American archaeologist, John Wesley Gilbert, boasts a rich history. However, in 2016, it faced a major setback with its de-accreditation by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Even if they manage to secure another accreditor, there is a pressing concern regarding their graduation rate, which may be as low as 20%. With tuition fees totaling a staggering $97,500 for four years of study, it’s no wonder they bear the weight of their moniker. Shockingly, students face a bleak -$94,700 return on investment after 20 years.
Paine College – Augusta, Georgia
Wheelock College – Boston, Massachusetts
Nestled in the vibrant city of Boston, Massachusetts, Wheelock College is an institution that adds to the city’s allure. Its origins trace back to Miss Wheelock’s Kindergarten Training School, founded by the talented educator Lucy Wheelock—a descendant of John Adams. Later, this esteemed institution merged with Boston University’s School of Education, renaming itself as Wheelock College. However, despite their noble role in shaping future generations, teachers still face the challenge of earning an adequate salary. Furthermore, obtaining a four-year degree from Wheelock comes with a hefty price tag of $201,000. Unfortunately, after 20 years, the return on investment stands at a staggering -$140,700.
Wheelock College – Boston, Massachusetts
Lindsey Wilson College – Columbia, Kentucky
Lindsey Wilson College is one of those schools that fails to deliver a worthwhile return on investment. However, it does have an impressive lineup of serious athletics with many alumni turning pro. Their soccer team is a dominating force in the NAIA, the league for smaller colleges. But here’s the disappointing part: a four-year degree will set you back a whopping $152,000, and only 34% of students can actually afford it. Talk about disheartening! After shelling out all that dough, the return on investment ends up being a staggering -$160,800.
Lindsey Wilson College – Columbia, Kentucky
Martin Luther College – New Ulm, Minnesota
Nestled in Minnesota, Martin Luther College boasts a campus buzzing with activity. Surprisingly, a staggering third of the nearly 900 students dedicate their time to varsity sports, while the remaining two-thirds engage in thrilling intramural athletic competitions. The joyous spirit radiating from these students is contagious, but it appears that they may not be fully equipped for the challenges that await them beyond the school walls. Interestingly, despite a hefty four-year tuition price tag of $93,300, the average return on investment after 20 years slumps to a disappointing -$123,200.
Martin Luther College – New Ulm, Minnesota
Johnson University – Kimberlin Heights, Tennessee
Johnson University in Tennessee, nestled in the charming hamlet of Kimberlin Heights just 12 miles from Knoxville, is not just a Christian university — it’s a vibrant community brimming with team spirit for the beloved Johnson University Royals. While the location alone is a dream for any private school, let’s crunch some numbers. PayScale reveals that although graduating on time may be a tad iffy, the return on investment after four years of study ($89,800) may not quite add up… until you consider the long-term journey. Brace yourself: the 20-year return on investment weighs in at a surprising -$97,900.
Johnson University – Kimberlin Heights, Tennessee
Claflin University – Orangeburg, South Carolina
With less than 2,000 undergraduate students, Claflin University may seem tiny, but it holds a rich history. As a historically black college, it paved the way for equality by awarding degrees to Alice Moorer andortne in 1884. However, the college’s recent contributions to humanity have been less awe-inspiring. While over half of the students graduate within four years, the financial outlook may raise eyebrows – with a tuition of $128,000, the expected return on investment 20 years post-graduation is a staggering -$133,900.
Claflin University – Orangeburg, South Carolina
Benedict College – Columbia, South Carolina
Benedict College, founded in 1870 in Columbia, South Carolina, is a distinguished liberal arts college. With an enrollment of over 2,000 undergraduate students, the college offers a comprehensive four-year degree program. However, it is worth noting that the graduation rate stands at just 22% within the expected time frame. Considering their rich educational heritage, one would expect the college to empower their students with practical skills for the real world. Unfortunately, the 20-year return on investment is calculated at -$76,800, raising concerns.
Benedict College – Columbia, South Carolina
Campbellsville University – Campbellsville, Kentucky
Nestled in the scenic beauty of Kentucky, Green Lake stands as a man-made reservoir adjacent to Campbellsville University. This serene location provides students with the unique opportunity to immerse themselves in nature while pursuing their studies. The university also boasts a satellite campus in Hodgenville, a historic town known for being the birthplace of Abraham Lincoln. While Campbellsville University offers a range of colleges dedicated to music, education, and art, it’s worth noting that these professions may not exhibit the highest financial returns. Tuition fees for a four-year program amount to $143,000, with a projected return on investment of -$76,800 after a span of 20 years.
Campbellsville University – Campbellsville, Kentucky
Talladega College – Talladega, Alabama
Talladega College, a historically black institution, stands on the grounds of a former Baptist academy. Established by the governor after the Civil War, it now charges $88,200 for a four-year degree. Within this timeframe, only 43% of students manage to graduate. While renowned for its nationally competing Talladega College Tornado Marching Band, the return on investment twenty years post-graduation stands at a discouraging -$156,900.
Talladega College – Talladega, Alabama
Miles College – Fairfield, Alabama
Despite Charles Barkley’s record-breaking $1 million donation to the school in January 2020, promising brighter prospects for the 1,500 pupils studying there may be a challenge. PayScale reveals that attending Miles College in Fairfield, Alabama, might yield one of the lowest returns on investment. While a four-year degree costs $90,200, only 17% of students manage to complete it within the designated time frame. Shockingly, projections suggest a staggering -$164,600 return on investment 20 years after graduation.
Miles College – Fairfield, Alabama
University of Montevallo – Montevallo, Alabama
Located in Montevallo, Alabama, the city shares its name with a renowned university. This esteemed public liberal arts school ranks among the top in the state, according to US News & World Report. The campus itself exudes charm, boasting striking antebellum architecture. Notably, the university hosts an annual Life Raft Debate, where professors passionately defend the value of their expertise. However, it’s important to acknowledge the significant cost of college tuition, totaling $143,000 for a four-year degree, juxtaposed against a less favorable 20-year return on investment of -$64,100.
University Of Montevallo – Montevallo, Alabama
University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma – Chickasha, Oklahoma
The University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma, a public university in Oklahoma, offers an exceptional educational value at a cost of just over $6,000 per year. While it may not be an insignificant sum, it pales in comparison to the staggering $99,700 that out-of-state students are required to pay. After 20 years, the return on investment is a staggering -$65,500. Therefore, it would be wise to explore enticing opportunities at public schools within your own state. Choose wisely and maximize your educational investment.
University Of Science And Arts Of Oklahoma – Chickasha, Oklahoma
Morris College – Sumter, South Carolina
Nestled in Sumter, South Carolina, lies Morris College—distinct from the famed Fort Sumter within the same state. This historically black institution stands proudly among our notable list. Surrounded by a vibrant community of 40,000 residents, many of whom are students, Morris College welcomes an eclectic mix of learners. Joining forces with the 551 Morris students are ambitious individuals from various universities with campuses in Sumter. An education at Morris comes at a cost of $92,200 for four years, paving the way for a transformative investment. Over a span of two decades, the return on investment at Morris is projected at -$106,800—but the immeasurable value of acquiring knowledge and skills is priceless.
Morris College – Sumter, South Carolina
The University of Montana Western – Dillon, Montana
Located in Dillon, Montana, the University of Montana Western, formerly known as the Montana State Normal School, was established with the primary goal of teacher education. Throughout its history, it underwent several name changes – from Western Montana College of the University of Montana to its current designation as part of the Montana University system since 2000. Currently, the institution accommodates approximately 1,500 students, with a graduation rate of 46% within four years, following tuition expenses of $109,000. However, considering the cost, the negative 20-year ROI of -$71,400 raises concerns about the value of this investment.
The University Of Montana Western – Dillon, Montana
Maine College of Art – Portland, Maine
Maine College of Art, commonly known as MECA, stands as a hub of artistic expression and learning for numerous students in New England. However, this privilege comes at a considerable cost, with a four-year degree amounting to a staggering $184,000. Remarkable, isn’t it? Unfortunately, the return on investment (ROI) is a discouraging -$163,600, making it difficult for graduates to anticipate significant financial gains from their art degree. While MECA promises to “educate artists for life,” it appears that integrating into the workforce might not be part of the equation.
Maine College Of Art – Portland, Maine
Brewton-Parker College – Mount Vernon, Georgia
Nestled in the serene village of Mount Vernon, Georgia, Brewton-Parker offers students a quaint and close-knit academic setting. Out of the 2,451 residents in town, 1,119 are proud college students. While the proximity to the locals is appealing, it comes at a considerable price. The cost for a four-year college education amounts to $113,000, with a mere 17% of students completing their studies on time. Regrettably, the 20-year net return on investment stands at a disheartening -$92,200.
Brewton Parker College – Mount Vernon, Georgia
University of South Carolina Aiken – Aiken, South Carolina
The University of South Carolina Aiken, located in Aiken, South Carolina, is a distinguished institution under the University of South Carolina system. Renowned for its rapid growth, it stands out as one of the most affordable choices for in-state students. However, the four-year tuition fee for out-of-state students is a staggering $130,000. Regrettably, after two decades, the return on investment for these students is a mere -$66,000. This insufficient figure fails to justify the decision to pursue a college education far away from the supportive presence of your parents.
University Of South Carolina Aiken – Aiken, South Carolina