Georgetown University graduates achieve some of the highest earnings in American higher education, with median income exceeding $103,000 ten years after enrollment.
The university delivers transformational outcomes for students from all backgrounds, including the nation's highest earnings for low-income graduates at over $150,000 annually.
Georgetown University stands among the most financially rewarding institutions in the country, delivering outcomes that place it in the top 1% nationally for long-term earnings. With graduates earning a median of $103,494 ten years after enrollment, Georgetown consistently produces some of the highest-earning alumni in higher education. The university's location in Washington, D.C., combined with its strong alumni networks in finance, government, and international affairs, creates exceptional career opportunities that translate into sustained financial success.
What makes Georgetown particularly distinctive is its ability to deliver outstanding outcomes for the limited number of low-income students it enrolls. Despite serving only about 10% Pell Grant recipients, those students achieve remarkable success, earning a median of $150,200 ten years out—placing Georgetown at the very top nationally for low-income student earnings. This performance reflects the university's intensive support systems and the power of its professional networks.
As a highly selective private research university, Georgetown combines academic excellence with practical career preparation. The institution's strength in fields like finance, government, computer science, and international relations, paired with its D.C. location and extensive alumni connections, creates a unique environment where academic rigor translates directly into exceptional career outcomes and long-term financial security.
Georgetown's program portfolio reflects its strategic position at the intersection of business, government, and international affairs. Banking and Financial Support Services leads in aggregate economic impact, with 202 graduates earning strong median salaries of $85,538 and generating over $17 million in total returns. This program exemplifies Georgetown's strength in preparing students for high-value careers in finance and consulting, where the university's alumni networks provide exceptional access and advancement opportunities.
American Government and Politics, as Georgetown's largest major with 280 graduates, demonstrates the university's unique positioning in Washington D.C. While early-career earnings of $52,524 may appear modest, this figure reflects the typical trajectory for government and public service careers that often lead to substantial long-term earning growth through senior positions in federal agencies, law firms, lobbying, and international organizations. Computer Science, though smaller with 52 graduates, produces the highest individual earnings at $88,639, reflecting Georgetown's growing strength in technology fields.
The university's location in the nation's capital amplifies the value of every program, providing students with internship opportunities, networking access, and career pathways that are simply unavailable elsewhere. Whether in finance, government, international relations, or technology, Georgetown students benefit from direct exposure to industry leaders and decision-makers, creating career advantages that translate into the exceptional long-term earnings outcomes that define the Georgetown experience.
Georgetown University delivers exceptional financial returns that rank among the very best in American higher education. Graduates earn a median of $103,494 ten years after enrollment, placing the university in the top 1% nationally for long-term earnings. This performance reflects both the quality of Georgetown's academic programs and the strength of its alumni networks, particularly in high-paying fields like finance, consulting, law, and government service.
The university's program mix drives these outstanding outcomes. Banking and Financial Support Services stands out as Georgetown's highest aggregate-return major, with 202 graduates earning a median of $85,538 and generating over $17 million in total economic impact. Computer Science, though smaller with 52 graduates, produces the highest individual earnings at $88,639 median income. American Government and Politics, Georgetown's largest program with 280 graduates, reflects the university's strength in preparing students for careers in public service, law, and policy, with graduates earning $52,524 early in their careers—a figure that typically grows substantially as alumni advance into senior government and legal positions.
Georgetown's location in Washington, D.C., amplifies these earnings advantages. Graduates enter one of the nation's highest-opportunity job markets, with direct access to federal government, international organizations, major law firms, and consulting companies. The combination of Georgetown's academic reputation, extensive alumni networks, and strategic location creates career pathways that consistently deliver exceptional long-term financial outcomes across multiple high-value industries.
Georgetown University represents a significant financial investment, with affordability varying dramatically by family income level. Low-income students benefit from generous financial aid, paying an average net price of just $5,340 annually—making Georgetown remarkably accessible for families who qualify for the most substantial aid packages. Middle-income families face moderate costs at $13,464 per year, while high-income families pay the full freight of approximately $57,166 annually, reflecting Georgetown's high sticker price.
The debt picture at Georgetown is manageable relative to the institution's earning potential. Typical graduates leave with about $15,500 in federal student loan debt, a relatively modest amount that reflects both the university's strong financial aid and the fact that many families can afford to pay substantial amounts out of pocket. Parent PLUS borrowing averages $31,162, higher than many institutions but still reasonable given Georgetown's exceptional career outcomes and the earning capacity of families who choose this investment.
What makes Georgetown's cost structure sustainable is the remarkable earning power of its graduates. With median 10-year earnings exceeding $103,000, most borrowers can comfortably handle their debt obligations while building substantial wealth over time. The university's 0% default rate and exceptional loan repayment performance demonstrate that Georgetown graduates consistently achieve the financial success needed to justify the institution's premium pricing.
Georgetown University Hub Overview
Executive summary with admissions, cost, outcomes, and program analysis
