Fisk University
Fisk University — Earnings vs Cost (vs National Average)
Is Fisk University Worth It?
At a value score of 12/100, Fisk University is a below-average value relative to its cost. Graduates earn $45,454 — 15% below average — while paying $32,020/year. Consider alternatives with better earnings-to-cost ratios.
With a 2.8-year payback period, most graduates recoup their total cost of attendance relatively quickly.
A 35% graduation rate is a serious red flag — fewer than 3 in 10 students finish. Those who don't graduate may still carry student debt without the higher-earning credential to show for it.
With median debt of $27,000 representing 59% of first-year earnings, loan repayment will be a significant burden for most graduates.
Bottom line: consider whether the specific program you're interested in at Fisk University has outcomes that justify the cost — the institution-wide numbers suggest caution.
How Fisk University compares to peer private nonprofit colleges of similar tier nationally
Ranked #36 of 38 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 | College of Biblical Studies-Houston | 100 | $672 | $39,260 |
| #2 | Brescia University | 67 | $8,709 | $45,500 |
| #3 | College of Saint Mary | 49 | $16,590 | $54,338 |
| #4 | Pillar College | 49 | $8,470 | $45,577 |
| #5 | Heritage University | 39 | $14,598 | $49,416 |
| #6 | University of Lynchburg | 38 | $22,235 | $56,380 |
| #36 | Fisk University | 12 | $32,020 | $45,454 |
Peer group: private nonprofit colleges within ±60% of Fisk University's student body size and within a similar academic tier (SAT ±80, admit rate ±10pp, median earnings ±25%). 1 in TN.
Best Programs at Fisk University
Program-level earnings data isn't available for Fisk 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 $32,020/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 TN
Quick Facts
- Institution Type
- private
- Location
- Nashville, TN
- Student Body
- 1,035 students
- Admission Rate
- 37%
- Graduation Rate
- 35%
- Net Price (Annual)
- $32,020
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $45,454
- Median Student Debt
- $27,000