New federal earnings data from the U.S. Department of Education demonstrates that a Stevens degree provides a strong return on investment (ROI). The data, which displays median salaries of graduates four years after completing their degree, places Stevens at number one among all institutions in New Jersey and 32nd nationally out of nearly 5,000 colleges. With a reported median salary of $111,977, Stevens ranks in the top 1% of schools nationwide, standing alongside the country’s most selective universities. The data is available for download on the Federal Student Aid website.
The federal analysis also highlights Stevens’ significant impact on upward economic mobility. The data shows that Pell Grant recipients at Stevens achieve median earnings closely aligned with the overall graduate median, placing the university among a select group of schools that provide both high earnings and accessibility. “These results reflect our unwavering commitment to preparing students not just for their first job, but for lifelong career success,” said President Nariman Farvardin. “At Stevens, we combine rigorous academics with real-world experience through co-ops, internships, and industry partnerships, and these outcomes show that approach works.”
The findings reinforce Stevens’ consistent recognition for ROI. The university currently ranks No. 9 on U.S. News & World Report’s list of “Colleges With the Best Return on Investment” and No. 12 on The Princeton Review’s “Top 20 Best Career Placement” list. The federal data also aligns with Stevens’ own career reports. The Class of 2024 Career Outcomes Report showed that 96.8% of graduates were either employed, with an average starting salary of $84,800, or continuing their education within six months of graduation.
With this recognition serving as a benchmark, the university continues to focus on its strategic initiatives. Programs like The Stevens Investment, which will provide full tuition coverage for qualifying students whose families earn under $75,000 annually, aim to ensure that this proven return on investment is accessible to all.
