Students at Dartmouth College achieve some of the highest earnings in the country, with graduates consistently reaching six-figure incomes that place the institution among the very best nationwide.
The college's exceptional outcomes extend across all income levels, with low-income graduates earning more than at virtually any other institution in America.
Dartmouth College represents the pinnacle of undergraduate education outcomes, ranking among the most elite institutions nationwide for long-term financial returns. With median 10-year earnings of $97,434 and graduates consistently reaching six-figure incomes, Dartmouth delivers exceptional career preparation that justifies its premium positioning. Nearly 96% of students graduate within six years, and the college's extensive alumni network opens doors to high-paying careers in finance, consulting, technology, and other prestigious fields.
What makes Dartmouth particularly compelling is its commitment to affordability for lower-income students despite its elite status. Low-income families pay just $2,978 annually after aid, while middle-income families see net costs around $5,841 per year. This generous financial aid model ensures that qualified students from diverse economic backgrounds can access Dartmouth's transformative educational experience and career outcomes.
As a highly selective private college in New Hampshire, Dartmouth combines the intimate learning environment of a liberal arts institution with the career placement power of an Ivy League university. The college serves about 15% Pell Grant recipients and 17% first-generation students, demonstrating meaningful access within its selective framework while maintaining the academic excellence and alumni connections that drive extraordinary post-graduation success.
Dartmouth College's academic programs consistently deliver exceptional career outcomes across diverse fields of study. Computer Science stands out with the highest median earnings at $113,015 for 99 graduates, reflecting both the field's market demand and Dartmouth's strong technical reputation among elite employers. Applied Economics represents the college's highest aggregate-return program, combining substantial enrollment of 166 students with solid earnings of $87,604, making it a cornerstone of Dartmouth's overall financial success.
The college's program mix reflects its liberal arts foundation with professional preparation, as evidenced by strong enrollment in American Government and Politics with 129 graduates earning median salaries of $62,192. Even traditionally lower-earning fields like Biology, with 53 graduates earning $32,563, benefit from Dartmouth's extensive alumni network and graduate school placement success, as many biology majors pursue advanced degrees in medicine, research, or other professional fields.
What distinguishes Dartmouth is how consistently its programs outperform national averages, regardless of field. The college's small class sizes, renowned faculty, and extensive career services ensure that students across all majors benefit from exceptional preparation and alumni connections that translate into superior long-term career outcomes and earning potential.
Dartmouth College graduates achieve exceptional long-term financial outcomes that place the institution among the very best in the country. Ten years after enrollment, graduates earn a median of $97,434, with many reaching well into six-figure territory as their careers progress. The college's 98th percentile ranking for earnings reflects both the caliber of students it attracts and the transformative power of its academic programs and alumni network.
Program-level outcomes vary significantly but remain strong across disciplines. Computer Science leads with median 10-year earnings of $113,015 for 99 graduates, reflecting the field's market demand and Dartmouth's technical reputation. Applied Economics, the college's highest aggregate-return program, combines strong enrollment of 166 students with solid earnings of $87,604, making it a key driver of overall institutional outcomes. Even traditionally lower-earning fields like Biology show the Dartmouth premium, though at $32,563 for 53 graduates, these outcomes reflect the reality that many biology majors pursue graduate school rather than immediate career entry.
The college's exceptional loan repayment performance underscores the financial security its graduates achieve. With 92% of borrowers successfully repaying loans and virtually no defaults, Dartmouth graduates demonstrate the earning power needed to manage debt comfortably while building wealth over time.
Dartmouth College's affordability story varies dramatically by family income, reflecting both generous need-based aid and premium private pricing. Low-income families experience exceptional value, paying just $2,978 annually after financial aid, while middle-income families see net costs around $5,841 per year. These figures place Dartmouth among the most affordable options for aided students, despite its elite private status and $80,000+ sticker price.
High-income families face the full weight of private college pricing, with net costs reaching $51,575 annually. This substantial investment reflects Dartmouth's premium positioning and the comprehensive educational experience it provides, from small class sizes and renowned faculty to extensive career services and alumni networks. For families at this income level, the decision often comes down to whether the long-term career advantages and earning potential justify the significant upfront costs.
Debt levels remain manageable relative to outcomes for most students. Typical federal loan debt of $17,500 is modest compared to Dartmouth's strong graduate earnings, while Parent PLUS borrowing averages $42,827 for families who choose this option. The college's exceptional loan repayment rates and virtually zero default rate demonstrate that graduates can comfortably service their educational investments while building substantial wealth over time.
Dartmouth College Hub Overview
Executive summary with admissions, cost, outcomes, and program analysis
