According to the U.S. Department of Education, Athens State University is ranked number one for its return on investment for any public college of its size in Alabama. According to the Department’s College Scoreboard, Athens State graduates earn an average of $39,700 annually at 10 years after attending the school. This salary amount places Athens State at the top of the list among Alabama small public colleges with student populations under 5,000.
“What is impressive about our graduates’ compensation levels is the fact that they are $5,000 over the national average of earnings at the 10 year mark,” states Athens State University President Bob Glenn. “It is well known that Athens State has the lowest tuition rate in the state, but with the release of these salary figures it is clearly evident that we are producing well-educated and career-ready graduates who are excelling. I attribute this to an exceptional faculty and innovative delivery methods.”
Of the 28 total baccalaureate institutions in the state, Athens State was ranked eighth overall for its graduates’ return on investment. This category pitted Athens State against some of the largest institutions in Alabama, both public and private.
The College Scoreboard is an online listing that compares U.S. colleges by programs, location, and size according to the Department of Education. More information can be found at collegescorecard.ed.gov.