Students at The University of the South achieve exceptional long-term earnings that place the institution among the top 10% of colleges nationwide for financial outcomes.
This prestigious liberal arts education delivers strong career preparation and alumni networks that translate into meaningful earning advantages throughout graduates' careers.
The University of the South, commonly known as Sewanee, delivers exceptional long-term financial outcomes that place it among the top-performing institutions nationwide. With earnings outcomes in the 89th percentile nationally, Sewanee graduates achieve a median income of $64,911 ten years after enrollment, reflecting the strong career preparation and alumni networks that define this prestigious liberal arts college. The university's small size and highly selective admissions create an intimate academic environment where students receive personalized attention and mentorship.
Sewanee's strength lies in preparing students for careers that reward critical thinking, communication skills, and intellectual depth. The university's liberal arts foundation, combined with strong programs in economics and political science, positions graduates for success in fields like finance, law, consulting, and public service. While the institution serves a relatively affluent student population, with only 15% receiving Pell Grants, those who attend benefit from generous financial aid that significantly reduces net costs for lower-income families.
As a small private college nestled in the mountains of Tennessee, Sewanee offers a distinctive educational experience that emphasizes academic excellence, honor, and community. The university's 82% six-year graduation rate and strong alumni loyalty create lasting professional networks that continue to benefit graduates throughout their careers.
The University of the South's program portfolio reflects the strengths of a traditional liberal arts education, with particular excellence in economics and political science. Applied Economics leads both in graduate numbers and total economic impact, with 62 graduates earning solid early-career salaries of $47,595 that position them well for advancement in finance, consulting, and business roles. This program exemplifies Sewanee's ability to combine rigorous analytical training with the communication skills that employers value.
English Language and Literature represents the university's largest single program with 49 graduates, though early earnings of $25,194 reflect the longer career development typical of humanities fields. These graduates often pursue advanced degrees or enter careers in education, publishing, and nonprofit work where compensation grows over time. American Government and Politics graduates earn around $37,568 early in their careers, preparing them for law school, public service, and policy work where Sewanee's reputation and alumni networks provide significant advantages.
The university's small scale means each program maintains close faculty-student relationships and intensive mentorship that helps graduates navigate competitive career paths. While early earnings vary by field, Sewanee's strong long-term outcomes suggest that graduates successfully leverage their liberal arts foundation and professional networks to advance into leadership roles across various industries, particularly in fields that value critical thinking and communication skills.
Graduates of The University of the South achieve strong long-term earnings that reflect the value of a rigorous liberal arts education. Ten years after enrollment, they earn a median of $64,911, placing the university in the 89th percentile nationally for earnings outcomes. This performance demonstrates how Sewanee's academic rigor, close faculty mentorship, and extensive alumni networks translate into meaningful career advantages for graduates.
The university's program mix emphasizes fields that reward analytical thinking and communication skills. Applied Economics stands out as both the highest-return program and largest by total impact, with 62 graduates earning a median of $47,595 early in their careers. English Language and Literature represents the largest single program with 49 graduates, though early earnings of $25,194 reflect the longer career development typical of humanities fields. American Government and Politics graduates earn around $37,568, positioning them well for careers in law, public service, and policy work.
Sewanee's liberal arts approach means many graduates pursue careers that build value over time rather than offering immediate high salaries. The university's strong performance in long-term earnings suggests that graduates successfully leverage their broad intellectual foundation and professional networks to advance into leadership roles across various industries. This pattern is particularly common among graduates who enter fields like finance, consulting, law, and nonprofit leadership where Sewanee's reputation and alumni connections provide significant career advantages.
Affordability at The University of the South varies significantly by family income, reflecting the institution's high sticker price but generous financial aid for lower-income students. Low-income families pay an average net price of $10,970 annually, representing substantial aid that makes this prestigious education accessible to students from modest backgrounds. Middle-income families face higher costs at $18,421 per year, while high-income families pay $37,122 annually, closer to the full cost of attendance.
Debt levels require careful consideration given the university's private college pricing structure. Typical graduates leave with $22,855 in federal student loan debt, a manageable amount relative to their strong earning potential. However, Parent PLUS borrowing averages $42,756, reflecting the reality that many families supplement financial aid with additional borrowing to cover the full cost of a Sewanee education. The university's zero percent federal loan default rate indicates that graduates generally manage their debt obligations successfully.
The key to Sewanee's affordability equation lies in the long-term return on investment. While upfront costs are substantial, particularly for middle- and upper-income families, the strong earnings outcomes and extensive alumni networks help justify the investment. Families should carefully evaluate their ability to manage both student and parent debt levels, but those who can afford the initial investment typically see strong financial returns over time.
The University Of The South Hub Overview
Executive summary with admissions, cost, outcomes, and program analysis
