Saint Augustine's University
Saint Augustine's University — Earnings vs Cost (vs National Average)
Saint Augustine's University at a Glance
Saint Augustine's University is a private unaccredited historically Black Christian college in Raleigh, North Carolina. It discontinued academic degree offerings in 2026. Founded in 1867 by Episcopal Church clergy to educate formerly enslaved Black people, Saint Augustine's has traditionally focused its mission around first-generation college students and students "who otherwise wouldn't get the opportunity" to receive a college education. Over its history, it progressively evolved from a normal…
Is Saint Augustine's University Worth It?
At a value score of 11/100, Saint Augustine's University is a below-average value relative to its cost. Graduates earn $35,730 — 34% below average — while paying $24,313/year. Consider alternatives with better earnings-to-cost ratios.
With a 2.7-year payback period, most graduates recoup their total cost of attendance relatively quickly.
A 30% 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 $29,669 representing 83% 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 Saint Augustine's University has outcomes that justify the cost — the institution-wide numbers suggest caution.
Best Programs at Saint Augustine's University
The highest-earning program at Saint Augustine's University is Business Administration, Management and Operations at $31,800/year (4 years after graduation). The lowest is Health and Physical Education/Fitness at $17,800/year.
Your major matters more than the school name — a Business Administration, Management and Operations graduate from Saint Augustine's University earns $31,800, while a Health and Physical Education/Fitness graduate earns $17,800. Choose your program carefully — it's the single biggest lever you control.
Debt also varies by program: Business Administration, Management and Operations graduates carry $38,125 in median debt vs. $27,000 for Health and Physical Education/Fitness.
Return on Investment
Estimated 4-Year Cost
Based on $24,313/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
Programs & Earnings by Major
Graduate earnings data by field of study (4 years after graduation):
| Major | Earnings (4yr) | Earnings (1yr) | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration, Management and Operations | $31,800 | $31,800 | $38,125 |
| Criminal Justice and Corrections | $27,300 | $27,300 | $33,250 |
| Health and Physical Education/Fitness | $17,800 | $17,800 | $27,000 |
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Quick Facts
- Institution Type
- private
- Location
- Raleigh, NC
- Student Body
- 172 students
- Admission Rate
- 34%
- Graduation Rate
- 30%
- Net Price (Annual)
- $24,313
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $35,730
- Median Student Debt
- $29,669