Boricua College
New York, NY 10032-1560 — Private Nonprofit
Value Score: 75/100 | ROI Score: -32 | Affordability Score: 75/100
Tuition (In-State): $13,025 | Out-of-State: $13,025
Graduation Rate: 74.1% | Retention Rate: 86.5%
Median Earnings (10yr): $35,348 | Median Debt: $6,733
Student Body Size: 391 (small)
Pell Grant Recipients: 86.0% | Federal Loan Rate: 13.7%
Average Faculty Salary: $5,110/month
Tuition & Affordability Analysis
In-state tuition at Boricua College is $13,025 per year, which is 67% below the national average for private institutions.
Out-of-state students pay $13,025/year — a premium of $0 over in-state rates. Over four years, out-of-state students pay approximately $0 more than their in-state peers.
Estimated four-year tuition cost: $52,100 (tuition only, not including room, board, and fees).
What You Actually Pay: Net Price by Family Income
The sticker price rarely reflects what families actually pay. After grants and scholarships, here is the average net price by family income bracket at Boricua College:
- Families earning $0–$30,000: $14,809/year
- Families earning $30,001–$48,000: $13,907/year
- Families earning $48,001–$75,000: $23,253/year
Graduate Outcomes & Return on Investment
74.1% of students at Boricua College complete their degree, 20% above the national average. This is a solid graduation rate.
First-year retention rate: 86.5% (7% above the national average). This indicates most students are satisfied enough to return for sophomore year.
Graduates of Boricua College earn a median salary of $35,348 ten years after enrollment, 14% below the national average. This represents a $348/year earnings premium over the average high school diploma holder, or $10,440 in additional lifetime earnings over a 30-year career.
The median student debt at graduation is $6,733, 69% below the national average. On a standard 10-year repayment plan at 5.5% interest, this translates to approximately $73/month, with a total repayment of $8,760 (including $2,027 in interest).
Debt-to-Earnings Ratio: 0.19x. This is an excellent ratio — graduates carry manageable debt relative to their earning power.
Breakeven Point: Based on the earnings premium over high school graduates, a degree from Boricua College pays for itself in approximately 150 years. This is a longer payback period — consider whether your intended major leads to higher-earning career paths.
Financial Aid Profile
86.0% of students at Boricua College receive Pell Grants (federal need-based aid for families earning under ~$60,000), 161% above the national average. This high Pell rate indicates the school serves a large proportion of lower-income students and likely has strong need-based aid programs.
13.7% of students take federal loans, 71% below the national average. A low loan rate suggests strong institutional aid or a wealthier student body that doesn't need to borrow.
Average faculty salary: $5,110/month, 41% below the national average. Higher faculty salaries generally indicate greater investment in teaching quality and ability to attract experienced professors.
Student Body & Campus Diversity
Boricua College enrolls 391 undergraduate students. As a small institution, students can expect smaller class sizes, closer faculty relationships, and a tight-knit campus community.
Diversity Index: 37/100 (higher = more diverse). The student body is less diverse than average.
Student body composition: White 1%, Hispanic 77%, Black 20%, Asian 1%.
Boricua College: Moderate Academic Success with Good Value and Below-Average Earnings
- Boricua College: A Foundation for Community Impact, Not Just a Paycheck
- Unlock Your Potential in NYC: Boricua College's Path to Local Careers
- Affordable Education, Enduring Values: Is Boricua College the Right Fit for You?
Report Card: Overall Grade C
Boricua College receives an overall grade of C based on six dimensions:
- Academics: C+
- Value: F
- Outcomes: C
- Affordability: A+
College Analysis
Boricua College is a Private Nonprofit institution in New York, NY with approximately 391 students. Academics: Boricua College has a graduation rate of 74.09%, indicating a moderate success rate in student completion. Value: The median debt of $6,733 is relatively low compared to tuition, suggesting a good value proposition. Outcomes: Graduates earn a median salary of $35,348 after 10 years, which is below the national average for similar institutions.
The Verdict: Is Boricua College Worth It?
Boricua College presents a complex value proposition. With a median 10-year earning of $35,348 and a median debt of $6,733, the financial picture is mixed. The low median debt is a significant positive, suggesting graduates are not burdened by excessive loans. However, the median earnings are considerably lower than the national average for college graduates, and the ROI score of -32 indicates a negative return on investment over a decade. This suggests that, purely from a financial standpoint, the immediate post-graduation earning potential may not justify the cost of attendance for many students, especially when compared to other institutions. The tuition of $13,025 is relatively modest for a private institution in New York City, which is a point in its favor. However, the low earnings mean the debt payoff timeline, while short due to low debt, is still a significant portion of a graduate's income. Boricua College appears to be a hidden gem for students prioritizing accessibility, community support, and a pathway to public service or local employment over high earning potential. For those seeking a strong financial return, it may not be the best choice. Recommendation: Boricua College is a worthwhile investment for students whose primary goals are personal growth, community engagement, and securing employment within the New York City service sector, provided they are aware of the modest earning potential. It is not recommended for students solely focused on maximizing long-term financial gains.
Return on Investment
While the degree from Boricua College is affordable, the low median earnings after 10 years suggest that the return on investment may not be as strong as at other institutions.
Debt Reality Check
Median student debt at Boricua College: $6,733. Monthly payment on a standard 10-year plan: $76/month. Total repaid: $9,120 ($2,387 in interest).
Breakeven vs high school diploma: 1.3 years. Debt burden: Low. Salary needed for comfortable repayment: $9,120.
Strengths
- Good value proposition with low median debt.
- Located in New York City, offering access to diverse cultural and professional opportunities.
Weaknesses
- Below-average median earnings after 10 years.
- Moderate graduation rate, indicating some challenges in student completion.
Academic Profile
Retention Rate: 86.5%.
Boricua College's academic environment is characterized by its commitment to providing accessible higher education with a strong focus on practical application and cultural relevance. While specific departmental strengths are not extensively detailed in public data, the college's mission suggests a dedication to programs that empower its student body, likely including fields such as business, social sciences, education, and human services, designed to meet the needs of the urban community it serves. Given its size and private nonprofit status, faculty engagement is likely high, with professors often serving as mentors as well as instructors. The student-faculty ratio, though not explicitly provided, can be inferred to be low due to the small student population, allowing for personalized attention and more direct interaction with educators. Research opportunities, while perhaps not on the scale of large research universities, are likely integrated into coursework and capstone projects, encouraging students to apply their learning to real-world issues relevant to their communities. Academic support resources are crucial for a student body that may be balancing work, family, and studies; expect robust advising, tutoring services, and potentially workshops focused on study skills and academic success strategies. The college's emphasis on serving its community suggests that programs are designed to foster critical thinking and problem-solving skills applicable to urban challenges. While honors programs and extensive study abroad options might be less common due to the college's specific mission and size, the immersive New York City environment itself serves as a unique 'study abroad' experience, offering unparalleled opportunities for cultural immersion and practical learning.
Financial Aid Guide for Boricua College
Pell Grant recipients: 86.0%. Students taking federal loans: 13.7%.
Navigating financial aid at Boricua College is a critical step for most students, given its mission to provide accessible education. As a private nonprofit institution, Boricua College likely offers a combination of federal, state, and institutional aid. The stated tuition of $13,025 is a starting point, but the actual cost for students will vary significantly based on their financial circumstances. Need-based aid, derived from the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), will be a primary component. This includes federal Pell Grants, which are awarded to students with exceptional financial need, and state grants specific to New York residents. Institutional aid, funded by the college's endowment and donations, will also play a role. Given the median debt of $6,733, it suggests that many students receive substantial aid packages that minimize their reliance on loans. For students from lower-income backgrounds, it's plausible that aid packages could cover a significant portion, if not all, of the tuition and fees, potentially reaching $10,000-$12,000 in grants and scholarships annually. Work-study opportunities are also likely available, providing on-campus employment to help cover living expenses. Merit-based aid might be less emphasized compared to need-based aid, aligning with the college's mission to serve a diverse student population. Scholarship tips would include actively seeking out external scholarships, particularly those focused on Hispanic/Latinx students, community service, or specific fields of study. Negotiating aid at a smaller institution like Boricua College can be possible, especially if you have competing offers from other institutions or can demonstrate a significant change in financial circumstances, though it may be less formalized than at larger universities. It's essential to connect directly with the Boricua College Financial Aid Office early in the application process to understand your specific aid eligibility and explore all available options.
Hidden Costs at Boricua College
- Transportation costs within New York City can range from $121 per month for a monthly MetroCard to significantly more depending on travel frequency and distance.
- Textbooks and course materials can add an estimated $800 to $1,200 per academic year.
- Personal living expenses, including food outside of any potential meal plan, toiletries, and entertainment, could easily amount to $300-$500 per month.
- Technology fees or costs for a reliable laptop and software may range from $500 to $1,500 upfront or over a few years.
- Potential costs for internships or co-op programs, which may require specific attire or transportation, could add $200-$500 annually.
- Health insurance, if not covered by a parent's plan or a student plan, can cost upwards of $2,000-$3,000 per year.
- Application fees for graduate school or professional certifications after graduation can range from $50 to $150 per application.
Alumni Outcomes & Career Paths
Boricua College, situated in New York City, serves a unique demographic, often focusing on students seeking accessible higher education. While specific data on major employers actively recruiting from Boricua College is not readily available, the college's mission suggests graduates are likely to find opportunities within the vast New York metropolitan area's service-oriented economy. Industries where alumni might cluster include healthcare support, social services, education, and administrative roles, reflecting the practical, career-focused nature of many programs. Given the college's size and focus, formal graduate school placement rates are not a primary metric highlighted, but alumni pursuing further education would likely target programs in fields aligned with their undergraduate studies, such as social work, public administration, or specialized healthcare fields. Notable alumni are not widely publicized, which is common for smaller institutions with a strong community focus. Career services at Boricua College likely emphasize practical job placement assistance, resume building, and interview preparation tailored to the local job market. Internship pipelines are probably developed through local partnerships, connecting students with organizations in sectors like non-profits, community health centers, and small to medium-sized businesses within the five boroughs. Geographic hiring patterns for Boricua College graduates are overwhelmingly concentrated in the New York City metropolitan area, leveraging their understanding of the local community and its needs. This focus on local impact is a defining characteristic of the college's graduate outcomes.
Campus Life & Culture at Boricua College
Boricua College serves a predominantly urban student body, with a significant representation of Hispanic/Latinx students, reflecting its mission to provide educational opportunities within these communities. The student who thrives here is often self-motivated, community-oriented, and seeking a supportive academic environment that values cultural identity and practical application of knowledge.
Boricua College, nestled in the vibrant heart of New York City, offers a unique campus experience deeply intertwined with its urban environment. With a small student body of around 391, the campus culture is intimate and community-focused. Forget sprawling quads and traditional dormitories; Boricua College's 'campus' is more about shared spaces and a sense of belonging within the bustling city. Students often describe the vibe as familial, with a strong emphasis on mutual support and shared cultural identity. Social life isn't dictated by Greek rows or large athletic events, but rather by smaller gatherings, student-led initiatives, and leveraging the vast cultural and social offerings of New York City itself. Think exploring museums in Midtown, attending community events in Washington Heights, or grabbing a bite in a local eatery. Student organizations tend to be focused on cultural heritage, academic interests, and community service, reflecting the college's mission. While formal housing isn't a central feature, the college assists students in navigating the city's housing market, often leading to shared apartments or living arrangements that foster independence and urban living skills. Dining is similarly integrated into the city experience, with students frequenting local delis, cafes, and restaurants, making meal plans less of a structured affair and more of a personal choice. The close-knit community means that student leaders play a significant role in shaping campus events and activities, fostering a sense of ownership and engagement. Athletics are not a primary focus, but intramural activities or participation in city-wide leagues might be an option for engaged students. The overall atmosphere is one of resilience, cultural pride, and academic ambition, where students are encouraged to learn both inside and outside the classroom, using New York City as their extended campus.
Campus Highlights
- Deeply rooted in the New York City urban landscape, offering a unique 'city as campus' experience.
- Strong emphasis on cultural heritage and community empowerment, particularly for the Hispanic/Latinx population.
- Intimate learning environment with a small student body fostering close relationships with faculty and peers.
- Commitment to accessibility and providing a pathway to higher education for diverse student populations.
- Focus on practical skills and community-relevant education, preparing students for local and global impact.
- Affordable tuition compared to many private institutions, especially when factoring in potential aid.
- A supportive, familial atmosphere where students are encouraged to grow both academically and personally.
Location & Regional Advantages
Boricua College's location in New York, NY, offers a dynamic and challenging environment for its students and graduates. The local job market is one of the largest and most diverse in the United States, providing a wide array of opportunities, particularly in sectors like healthcare, social services, education, finance, and technology. While the cost of living in New York City is notoriously high, it is offset by the sheer volume and variety of potential employment. Proximity to numerous industry hubs, including the financial district, healthcare corridors, and burgeoning tech scenes in Manhattan and Brooklyn, provides graduates with direct access to potential employers. The quality of life in New York City is unparalleled for those who thrive in a fast-paced, culturally rich urban setting, offering world-class museums, entertainment, and dining. However, the city also presents challenges such as a demanding pace, high competition, and a less predictable climate compared to other regions. Safety can be a concern, as with any major metropolis, requiring vigilance. For Boricua College graduates, this location is a double-edged sword: it offers immense career potential and exposure to diverse industries, but also demands resilience and adaptability to navigate the competitive landscape and high cost of living. The strong emphasis on community and service within Boricua's ethos aligns well with the needs of many New York-based non-profits and public service organizations, creating specific career pathways.
How to Get Into Boricua College
Gaining admission to Boricua College requires a thoughtful approach that highlights your commitment to education and community. As a private institution with a specific mission, the admissions committee likely looks beyond just grades and test scores, seeking students who align with the college's values. Since SAT/ACT scores are not a factor, your high school transcript, GPA, and any college coursework will be paramount. Focus on presenting a strong academic record, demonstrating resilience and a capacity for learning. The essay is your opportunity to shine; craft a narrative that showcases your personal journey, your motivations for pursuing higher education, and how Boricua College specifically fits into your aspirations. Consider topics related to your cultural background, community involvement, or overcoming challenges. Since the college serves a specific demographic and community, articulating how you will contribute to and benefit from this environment will be key. Demonstrated interest isn't typically a formal policy at smaller institutions, but engaging with the college through information sessions (virtual or in-person if available), reaching out to the admissions office with thoughtful questions, and thoroughly researching the college's programs will show your genuine commitment. The application timeline should align with standard deadlines, typically with applications opening in the fall and decisions released in the spring. For those needing to secure financial aid, applying early is always advisable to ensure all necessary forms are processed promptly.
How Boricua College Compares to Similar Schools
Similar schools: Medgar Evers College, York College, CUNY, Touro College
Advantages
- Lower median student debt compared to many NYC institutions.
- Strong focus on serving the local Puerto Rican and Latino communities.
- Potentially more personalized attention due to smaller student body.
Disadvantages
- Significantly lower median graduate earnings compared to peers.
- Less brand recognition and perceived prestige in the broader job market.
- Limited data available on specific employer recruitment and graduate outcomes.
Best For
- Students interested in high-earning careers may want to consider other institutions with stronger job placement records.
- Those seeking a larger campus with more resources might find Boricua College too small.
Avoid If
- Students looking for a more diverse student body might find other institutions more suitable.
- Those in need of extensive research facilities or specialized programs may want to explore larger, more research-focused institutions.
Frequently Asked Questions about Boricua College
How much does it cost to attend Boricua College?
In-state tuition at Boricua College is $13,025 per year, and out-of-state tuition is $13,025 per year. The median student debt at graduation is $6,733.
What is the graduation rate at Boricua College?
Boricua College has a graduation rate of 74.1%.
How much do Boricua College graduates earn?
The median earnings for Boricua College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $35,348. With median debt of $6,733, graduates earn roughly 5.2x their debt level annually.
How big is Boricua College?
Boricua College has approximately 391 students and is classified as a small institution. It is located in New York, NY and is a Private Nonprofit institution.
Is Boricua College worth the cost?
Boricua College has an ROI score of -32 out of 100. With in-state tuition of $13,025 per year and median post-graduation earnings of $35,348, the data suggests the return on investment may be below average.
Where is Boricua College located?
Boricua College is located in New York, NY. It is a Private Nonprofit institution with approximately 391 students.
How much student debt do Boricua College graduates have?
The median student debt for Boricua College graduates is $6,733. With median earnings of $35,348 ten years after enrollment, graduates can expect a debt-to-income ratio of 19%.
Is Boricua College a good college?
Boricua College has a graduation rate of 74.1% and median post-graduation earnings of $35,348. Hispanic students make up the majority of the student body, at 76.98%.
How does Boricua College compare to similar colleges?
The college is located in New York City, providing access to a diverse range of cultural and professional opportunities. Compared to peer institutions, Boricua College offers a good value proposition with low median debt, but graduates earn below-average salaries.
What career prospects do Boricua College graduates have?
Graduates of Boricua College are well-positioned for careers in New York City, particularly in fields that value cultural diversity and community engagement.
What should prospective students know about Boricua College?
Boricua College is well-suited for students seeking a culturally rich educational experience in a major city, but may not be the best choice for those prioritizing high earning potential.
What makes Boricua College stand out?
The tuition is the same for in-state and out-of-state students, which is uncommon and may indicate a focus on accessibility.
What are the pros and cons of attending Boricua College?
The college has a small size category, which might offer a more personalized educational experience.
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Analysis based on U.S. Department of Education data. Not enrollment advice. Verify information with the institution directly.