Parker University
Parker University — Earnings vs Cost (vs National Average)
Parker University at a Glance
Parker University is a private university focused on healthcare and located in Dallas, Texas. The university operates a second chiropractic clinic in Irving, Texas, the site of its first campus. It is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, the Council on Chiropractic Education, and the Commission of Massage Therapy Accreditation.
1982
44 years old
977
229 undergrad · 748 grad
Identity
Is Parker University Worth It?
At a value score of 26/100, Parker University is a below-average value relative to its cost. Graduates earn $42,091 — 22% below average — while paying $29,135/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.
The 73% graduation rate means roughly 27% of students leave without a degree — taking on debt without the earnings boost that completion brings.
Bottom line: consider whether the specific program you're interested in at Parker University has outcomes that justify the cost — the institution-wide numbers suggest caution.
How Parker University compares to peer private nonprofit colleges of similar tier in TX
Ranked #80 of 208 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 | Turtle Mountain College | 100 | $3,428 | $32,079 |
| #2 | College of Biblical Studies-Houston | 100 | $672 | $39,260 |
| #3 | Albizu University-San Juan | 73 | $9,732 | $41,544 |
| #4 | Brescia University | 67 | $8,709 | $45,500 |
| #5 | Baptist University of Florida | 64 | $10,372 | $42,836 |
| #6 | Goshen College | 56 | $14,493 | $51,943 |
| #80 | Parker University | 26 | $29,135 | $42,091 |
Peer group: private nonprofit colleges within ±60% of Parker University's student body size and within a similar academic tier (SAT ±80, admit rate ±10pp, median earnings ±25%). 8 in TX.
Best Programs at Parker University
Program-level earnings data isn't available for Parker 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 $29,135/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 TX
Quick Facts
- Institution Type
- private
- Location
- Dallas, TX
- Student Body
- 607 students
- Graduation Rate
- 73%
- Net Price (Annual)
- $29,135
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $42,091
- Median Student Debt
- $12,288