Utah Valley University delivers exceptional affordability without sacrificing meaningful career outcomes, making it one of the most cost-effective pathways to a four-year degree in the country.
Students benefit from remarkably low net prices across all income levels while still achieving solid long-term earnings that support middle-class careers.
Utah Valley University ranks among the most affordable public universities nationwide while delivering above-average earnings outcomes for graduates. Located in Orem, this large public institution serves over 40,000 students with a distinctive mission that combines university-level academics with community college accessibility. UVU stands out for its exceptionally low net prices—just $6,381 annually for low-income students and $8,871 for middle-income families—placing it in the top tier nationally for affordability.
What makes UVU particularly compelling is how it balances broad access with solid financial outcomes. Nearly a quarter of students receive Pell Grants, and 27% are first-generation college students, yet graduates still achieve median earnings of $55,486 ten years after enrollment. The university's 12% transfer-in rate reflects its role as a destination for students seeking to complete degrees or change academic direction without taking on excessive debt.
As Utah's largest public university by enrollment, UVU offers comprehensive program options while maintaining the affordability and flexibility that many students need. For families seeking predictable costs and reliable career preparation, UVU delivers both accessibility and meaningful long-term value in Utah's growing economy.
Utah Valley University's program portfolio emphasizes practical career preparation across business, technology, and liberal arts fields. Business Administration stands out as the institution's economic engine, combining high enrollment of 290 graduates with solid median earnings of $52,207. This program represents UVU's strength in preparing students for management and entrepreneurial roles throughout Utah's diverse economy.
Computer Science delivers the highest earnings at $77,401 for 83 annual graduates, reflecting strong demand for technology skills in Utah's growing tech sector. Psychology, the university's most popular major with 398 graduates, serves students interested in human services, education, and graduate school preparation, though early-career earnings of $30,520 reflect the field's typical trajectory. English majors, with 80 graduates earning around $28,055, often pursue careers in education, communications, and writing.
UVU's program mix reflects its mission as a comprehensive university serving diverse student goals. The institution balances high-return professional programs like business and computer science with foundational liberal arts disciplines that prepare students for graduate study or careers requiring strong communication skills. This breadth allows students to pursue both practical career training and traditional academic disciplines within an affordable, accessible environment.
Utah Valley University graduates achieve solid long-term earnings that exceed many expectations for such an affordable institution. Ten years after enrollment, graduates earn a median of $55,486, placing UVU above average nationally for earnings outcomes. While this represents a modest discount compared to more selective institutions, it reflects strong value given the university's exceptionally low cost structure and broad accessibility.
Program-level outcomes vary significantly, with Computer Science leading the way at $77,401 in median earnings for the 83 annual graduates. Business Administration, UVU's largest high-return program with 290 graduates, produces median earnings of $52,207 and represents the institution's strongest combination of scale and financial outcomes. Psychology, the university's most popular major with 398 graduates, shows more modest earnings at $30,520, while English majors typically earn around $28,055 early in their careers.
UVU's strength lies in providing accessible pathways to stable, middle-class careers rather than maximizing earnings potential. The university graduates substantial numbers of students into business, technology, education, and health fields that offer steady employment and reasonable compensation. For students prioritizing affordability and career stability over maximum earning potential, UVU's outcomes represent solid value in Utah's diverse economy.
Utah Valley University excels in affordability, ranking among the most cost-effective public universities nationwide. Low-income students pay just $6,381 annually in net price, well below national averages, while middle-income families see costs of $8,871 per year. Even high-income families pay only $14,064, making UVU accessible across income levels. This pricing structure reflects the university's commitment to broad access and its efficient operational model.
Debt levels remain remarkably manageable for most UVU students. Typical graduates leave with $14,750 in federal student loan debt, significantly lower than national averages for four-year institutions. Parent PLUS borrowing averages just $10,000, reflecting families' ability to cover most costs through the university's low sticker prices rather than extensive borrowing. The institution maintains a 0% federal loan default rate, indicating that graduates can comfortably manage their debt obligations.
UVU's affordability model works particularly well for Utah residents and students who can live at home or find affordable housing in the Provo-Orem area. The combination of low tuition, reasonable living costs, and strong state support creates an environment where students can complete degrees without accumulating burdensome debt, making it an attractive option for cost-conscious families throughout the region.
Utah Valley University Hub Overview
Executive summary with admissions, cost, outcomes, and program analysis
