Students at Taylor University achieve strong long-term earnings that place the institution in the top quarter nationally for return on investment among similar colleges.
Graduates benefit from the university's combination of rigorous academics, personal attention, and career preparation that leads to solid middle-class outcomes across diverse fields.
Taylor University is a small private Christian liberal arts college in Upland, Indiana, known for combining rigorous academics with strong career outcomes. While the university serves a relatively affluent student body—only about 13% receive Pell Grants—graduates achieve solid long-term earnings that place Taylor in the 74th percentile nationally for return on investment among similar institutions.
What sets Taylor apart is its ability to prepare students for meaningful careers across diverse fields. Computer science graduates earn around $64,773 ten years out, while education and business majors also see competitive outcomes. The university's small size allows for personalized attention and mentorship that helps students transition successfully into their chosen careers.
As a faith-based institution, Taylor attracts students who want to integrate their Christian values with academic excellence. The university's strong graduation rates—77% complete their degrees within six years—reflect both the supportive campus environment and the academic preparation students receive. For families seeking a private college experience that balances spiritual formation with practical career preparation, Taylor offers a distinctive combination of personal growth and professional readiness.
Taylor University's program mix reflects its liberal arts mission while maintaining strong career preparation across key fields. Computer Science, despite graduating only 21 students annually, delivers the strongest financial returns with median earnings of $64,773 ten years out. This small but focused program benefits from personalized attention and strong industry connections that help graduates launch successful technology careers.
Education represents Taylor's largest program commitment, graduating 29 students annually who earn about $38,529—typical for teaching careers but reflecting the university's mission to prepare servant leaders. Banking and Financial Support Services graduates earn around $54,109, demonstrating Taylor's ability to prepare students for business careers across various sectors.
The university's small scale allows for deep mentorship and individualized career guidance across all programs. While Taylor doesn't graduate massive cohorts in any single field, its focused approach and strong alumni networks help students in every major develop the professional skills and connections needed for career success in their chosen fields.
Taylor University graduates achieve strong long-term financial outcomes, with median earnings of $52,198 ten years after enrollment. This performance places the university in the 74th percentile nationally for return on investment, reflecting the value of its rigorous academic programs and career preparation. While graduates don't necessarily out-earn peers from similar backgrounds at other institutions, they consistently achieve solid middle-class incomes across various fields.
The university's strongest financial returns come from its computer science program, where 21 graduates earn a median of $64,773 ten years out, representing the highest aggregate return among Taylor's programs. Banking and financial services graduates also perform well, earning around $54,109, while education majors—the university's largest program with 29 graduates—earn about $38,529, typical for the teaching profession. This mix reflects Taylor's balanced approach to career preparation, supporting students whether they pursue high-earning technical fields or service-oriented careers in education and ministry.
Taylor's small size and personalized approach help students across all majors develop the skills and networks needed for career success. The university's Christian mission attracts employers who value graduates' character and work ethic, contributing to strong job placement rates and career advancement over time.
Taylor University's affordability varies significantly by family income, reflecting its position as a private liberal arts college. Low-income families pay about $12,612 annually after aid, which is competitive for a private institution, while middle-income families see net costs around $21,003 per year. High-income families pay closer to the full cost at $28,408 annually, typical for private colleges that concentrate aid on students with the greatest financial need.
Most Taylor students graduate with manageable debt levels relative to their post-graduation earnings. Typical federal student loan debt is $20,500, well within reasonable bounds given the university's strong career outcomes and median earnings of $52,198. Parent PLUS borrowing averages $27,183, reflecting many families' choice to invest in Taylor's distinctive educational experience. The university's 0% federal loan default rate indicates that graduates successfully manage their debt obligations after graduation.
While Taylor's private college pricing puts it out of reach for some families, those who can afford it generally find the investment worthwhile. The combination of strong career preparation, high graduation rates, and solid earnings outcomes helps justify the higher upfront costs compared to public alternatives.
Taylor University Hub Overview
Executive summary with admissions, cost, outcomes, and program analysis
