Villanova Graduate Programs Earn High Marks in Debt-to-Income Study

Is graduate school worth the debt? A recent study by The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) shows that, in many cases, it is. In fact, the two Villanova College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (CLAS) graduate programs included in the study, Human Resource Development and Public Administration, show a strong income-to-debt ratio, meaning that the median income of graduates far exceeds the median debt incurred during their studies.

Of course, many factors influence students decisions to take out loans, including the job market, inflation and interest rates, as this WSJ article notes. There is also a vast discrepancy in income-to-debt ratios among schools offering similar degrees. Another WSJ article includes an interactive tool to compare schools.

"The results of this study are not unexpected, as Villanova offers excellent graduate programs at an affordable cost when compared to our peer schools," says Emory H. Woodard IV, PhD, Dean of CLAS Graduate Studies. "Our faculty and alumni connections also help our graduates embark on meaningful and well-paying careers. Apart from career earnings, though, our programs help instill a passion for lifelong learning and help form compassionate leaders who are committed to sparking positive change."