Students at the University of Louisiana at Monroe benefit from exceptionally affordable education with net prices well below national averages and a proven track record of graduates successfully managing their debt.
The university's zero percent default rate and reasonable borrowing levels create a financially sustainable path to degree completion.
The University of Louisiana at Monroe delivers solid value as a comprehensive public university, though it doesn't rank among the top tier nationally for overall outcomes. What makes ULM noteworthy is its strong affordability profile—net prices remain well below national averages across all income levels, and the university maintains a 0% federal loan default rate, indicating graduates can successfully manage their debt obligations. About one-third of students receive Pell Grants, and 38% are first-generation college students, reflecting the institution's role in serving diverse populations.
ULM graduates earn a median of $46,769 ten years after enrollment, with some variation across programs. Nursing stands out as a particularly strong pathway, with graduates earning over $61,000 and representing the university's highest aggregate return program. Computer Science also delivers competitive outcomes at nearly $59,000 in median earnings, though with smaller enrollment numbers.
As a medium-sized public university in Louisiana, ULM provides the accessibility and support systems that many students need to complete their degrees and enter stable careers. The combination of affordable pricing, manageable debt levels, and diverse program offerings makes it a practical choice for students focused on educational value and financial sustainability.
The University of Louisiana at Monroe offers a diverse program portfolio with particularly strong outcomes in health sciences and technology fields. Adult Health Nursing stands out as the university's flagship program, graduating 116 students annually with median earnings of $61,516—reflecting both the high demand for healthcare professionals and ULM's established reputation in nursing education. Computer Science, though smaller with 37 graduates, delivers similarly impressive outcomes at $59,124, positioning graduates well for technology careers in Louisiana and beyond.
Psychology represents ULM's largest program with 153 graduates, though early-career earnings of $27,280 reflect the field's typical trajectory where advanced degrees or specialized experience often drive higher compensation over time. Exercise Science and Kinesiology graduates earn around $24,615 initially, but many pursue additional certifications or graduate study that can significantly improve long-term earning potential.
The university's program mix reflects its comprehensive mission and regional focus, preparing students for careers in healthcare, education, business, and public service. While not all programs deliver exceptional early-career earnings, ULM's strength lies in providing solid preparation for stable careers that serve Louisiana communities and contribute to regional economic development.
University of Louisiana at Monroe graduates achieve moderate but steady earnings outcomes. Ten years after enrollment, they earn a median of $46,769, which places the university around the national average for similar institutions. The university shows a modest earnings advantage of about $1,807 beyond what might be expected given its student profile, indicating that ULM adds some value to student outcomes through its academic programs and support systems.
Program choice significantly influences earning potential at ULM. Adult Health Nursing leads the way with graduates earning $61,516 and representing the university's strongest aggregate return program with 116 graduates. Computer Science delivers similarly strong outcomes at $59,124 median earnings, though with a smaller cohort of 37 graduates. Psychology, the university's largest program with 153 graduates, shows more modest earnings at $27,280, while Exercise Science and Kinesiology graduates earn around $24,615 early in their careers.
The university's program mix reflects its comprehensive mission, with substantial enrollment in health sciences, education, and liberal arts fields that prepare students for stable, service-oriented careers. Many graduates enter local and regional job markets where ULM's reputation and alumni networks provide solid employment connections, contributing to the university's ability to help students achieve financial stability even if not exceptional earnings growth.
The University of Louisiana at Monroe stands out for its strong affordability across all income levels. Low-income students pay just $9,709 annually in net price, well below what most public universities charge, while middle-income families see costs around $12,001 per year. Even high-income families pay a reasonable $15,747, making ULM accessible to students from diverse economic backgrounds without creating significant financial strain.
Debt levels remain manageable for most ULM students. Typical graduates leave with $21,500 in federal student loan debt, a moderate amount that aligns with the university's focus on keeping education affordable. Parent PLUS borrowing averages $10,000, indicating that many families can cover a substantial portion of costs through grants, work-study, and personal contributions rather than relying heavily on parent loans. The university's 0% federal loan default rate demonstrates that graduates can successfully manage their debt obligations after graduation.
What makes ULM particularly sustainable financially is the combination of low upfront costs and predictable debt levels. The university's strong financial aid programs help keep net prices low, while graduates' steady earnings provide sufficient income to handle standard loan repayment without significant financial stress.
University Of Louisiana At Monroe Hub Overview
Executive summary with admissions, cost, outcomes, and program analysis
