Andrews University
Andrews University — Earnings vs Cost (vs National Average)
Andrews University at a Glance
Andrews University (Andrews) is a private Seventh-day Adventist university in Berrien Springs, Michigan. Founded in 1874 as Battle Creek College, it was the first higher education facility started by Seventh-day Adventists and is the flagship university of the Seventh-day Adventist school system, the world's second largest Christian school system.
1874
152 years old
$70M
$70.1 million as of 2021
2,858
3,815 undergrad · 1,563 grad
197
2,400 acres
Identity
Is Andrews University Worth It?
Andrews University delivers solid financial returns for its graduates. At $12,547/year, it's priced 38% below average, while graduates go on to earn $53,187 — near the national average.
The investment pays for itself in just 0.9 years — among the fastest payback periods of any college we track.
The 69% graduation rate means roughly 31% of students leave without a degree — taking on debt without the earnings boost that completion brings.
Bottom line: Andrews University delivers strong financial returns that justify the investment for most students.
How Andrews University compares to peer private nonprofit colleges of similar tier in MI
Ranked #2 of 159 on value score. Peers are matched by size, median earnings, SAT, and admission rate — not just geography.
| Rank | College | Value | Net price / yr | Median earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | Christian Brothers University | 81 | $9,854 | $57,478 |
| #2 | Andrews University | 73 | $12,547 | $53,187 |
| #3 | Albion College | 61 | $14,301 | $58,799 |
| #4 | Canisius University | 58 | $17,940 | $60,681 |
| #5 | Clarkson College | 57 | $19,241 | $64,876 |
| #6 | Goldey-Beacom College | 56 | $15,554 | $59,892 |
Peer group: private nonprofit colleges within ±60% of Andrews University's student body size and within a similar academic tier (SAT ±80, admit rate ±10pp, median earnings ±25%). 3 in MI.
Best Programs at Andrews University
Program-level earnings data isn't available for Andrews University. When evaluating whether to attend, research outcomes for your specific major using the Department of Education's College Scorecard or ask the admissions office for placement rates.
As a general rule: STEM, nursing, accounting, and computer science programs tend to deliver the strongest ROI regardless of institution. Humanities and arts programs can still be worthwhile, but require more intentional career planning to achieve financial payoff.
Return on Investment
Estimated 4-Year Cost
Based on $12,547/yr net price × 4 years
Earnings Premium
vs. national average of $53,787/yr
Payback Period
Time to recoup the total cost through higher earnings
10-Year Net Gain
Median earnings over 10 years minus total cost of attendance
Similar Colleges in MI
Quick Facts
- Institution Type
- private
- Location
- Berrien Springs, MI
- Student Body
- 1,224 students
- Admission Rate
- 82%
- Graduation Rate
- 69%
- Net Price (Annual)
- $12,547
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $53,187
- Median Student Debt
- $26,000