Towson University's published cost of attendance reaches $26,621 annually, including $11,306 in-state tuition, $15,644 for room and board, and $960 for books and supplies. Out-of-state students pay $28,326 in tuition.
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Net prices are averages and may vary. Based on federal data for first-time, full-time students receiving aid.
| Cost Category | Amount |
|---|---|
| Total Cost of Attendance (Sticker Price) | $26,621 |
| Tuition and Fees | $28,326 |
| Room and Board | $15,644 |
| Books and Supplies | $960 |
| Average Financial Aid (Grants and Scholarships) | -$9,830 |
| Average Net Price (What Families Pay) | $16,791 |
| Family Income | Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0–30k | $6,677 |
| $30–48k | $10,748 |
| $48–75k | $16,686 |
| $75–110k | $22,490 |
| $110k+ | $25,031 |
Towson University's published cost of attendance reaches $26,621 annually, including $11,306 in-state tuition, $15,644 for room and board, and $960 for books and supplies. Out-of-state students pay $28,326 in tuition. However, the average student pays just $16,791 after financial aid, representing $9,830 in average aid savings.
This net price falls $1,201 below the peer median of $15,590, making Towson relatively affordable among comparable public universities. The financial aid system provides substantial support across income levels, with net prices ranging from $6,677 for families earning under $30,000 to $25,031 for families earning over $110,000. Financial aid savings average nearly $10,000 annually, indicating robust need-based and merit-based assistance.
Towson University's financial aid profile reflects its commitment to educational access and economic diversity. With 33.5% of students receiving Pell grants, the university serves substantially more lower-income students than typical institutions, requiring robust need-based aid systems.
The $9,830 average aid savings demonstrates significant institutional investment in affordability, covering 37% of published costs for the average student. Aid concentration toward lower-income students creates net prices well below published rates for families most needing assistance.
The financial aid system supports the university's role as a Mobility Engine institution, enabling students from diverse economic backgrounds to access higher education. Merit-based aid supplements need-based programs, helping middle-income families manage costs while rewarding academic achievement.
How much students borrow and whether debt is manageable given outcomes.
Debt is well below typical first-year earnings — generally considered very manageable.
Towson University graduates manage debt levels that remain below national averages and support long-term financial stability. Median student debt reaches $18,718, falling $1,282 below the peer median of $20,000 and ranking in the 77th percentile for debt control.
Debt levels span from $7,283 at the 25th percentile to $23,991 at the 75th percentile, indicating variation based on family resources and borrowing choices. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.29 indicates that typical graduates dedicate less than 30% of first-year earnings to debt service, well within manageable ranges.
With median earnings of $64,390, graduates can handle debt obligations without excessive financial stress. Parent PLUS borrowing averages $24,083 with monthly payments of $317, reflecting moderate family borrowing to support educational costs.
How cost compares to graduate earnings and value added.
Towson University provides solid return on educational investment through the combination of controlled costs and strong earnings outcomes. While graduates earn $3,140 below expectations relative to similar students nationally, they achieve median earnings of $64,390 that rank in the 80th percentile and exceed peer institutions by $3,847 annually.
The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.29 indicates manageable financial obligations that preserve long-term economic mobility. Net prices below peer averages combined with above-peer earnings create favorable value proposition for Maryland families.
The university's ranking as a top 25 institution for median earnings nationally demonstrates strong absolute performance despite modest value-added metrics. Investment quality varies significantly by program, with Computer Science ($92,268 earnings), Nursing ($74,833), and Business Administration ($67,968) providing exceptional returns on educational investment.
