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Bryan University

Springfield, MO 65804 — Private For-Profit

Value Score: 55/100 | ROI Score: -55 | Affordability Score: 55/100

Tuition (In-State): $15,868 | Out-of-State: $15,868

Graduation Rate: 61.4%

Median Earnings (10yr): $28,725 | Median Debt: $22,764

Student Body Size: 144 (small)

Pell Grant Recipients: 84.4% | Federal Loan Rate: 77.9%

Average Faculty Salary: $3,000/month

Tuition & Affordability Analysis

In-state tuition at Bryan University is $15,868 per year, which is 60% below the national average for private institutions.

Out-of-state students pay $15,868/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: $63,472 (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 Bryan University:

  • Families earning $0–$30,000: $20,053/year

Graduate Outcomes & Return on Investment

61.4% of students at Bryan University complete their degree, near the national average. This is a solid graduation rate.

Graduates of Bryan University earn a median salary of $28,725 ten years after enrollment, 30% below the national average.

The median student debt at graduation is $22,764, 6% above the national average. On a standard 10-year repayment plan at 5.5% interest, this translates to approximately $247/month, with a total repayment of $29,640 (including $6,876 in interest).

Debt-to-Earnings Ratio: 0.79x. This ratio is approaching the caution zone. Graduates may face significant loan payments relative to income.

Financial Aid Profile

84.4% of students at Bryan University receive Pell Grants (federal need-based aid for families earning under ~$60,000), 156% 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.

77.9% of students take federal loans, 66% above the national average. This high borrowing rate means most students need loans to attend. Factor loan payments into your decision carefully.

Average faculty salary: $3,000/month, 66% below the national average. Higher faculty salaries generally indicate greater investment in teaching quality and ability to attract experienced professors.

Student Body & Campus Diversity

Bryan University enrolls 144 undergraduate students. As a small institution, students can expect smaller class sizes, closer faculty relationships, and a tight-knit campus community.

Diversity Index: 49/100 (higher = more diverse). The student body is less diverse than average.

Student body composition: White 67%, Hispanic 3%, Black 24%, Asian 1%.

Bryan University: Graduation and Earnings Below National Averages

Report Card: Overall Grade D+

Bryan University receives an overall grade of D+ based on six dimensions:

  • Academics: C
  • Value: F
  • Outcomes: D
  • Affordability: A+

College Analysis

Bryan University is a Private For-Profit institution in Springfield, MO with approximately 144 students. Bryan University has a graduation rate of 61.36%, slightly below the national average for private for-profit institutions. Median earnings 10 years after graduation are $28,725, which is below the national average for similar institutions. The median student debt upon graduation is $22,764, which is above the national average for private for-profit institutions. The university's ROI score is -55, indicating that the degree may not be worth the cost.

The Verdict: Is Bryan University Worth It?

Bryan University presents a concerning value proposition, primarily due to its low median earnings relative to its cost and the significant median debt incurred by students. With a 10-year median earning of $28,725 and median debt of $22,764, graduates face a challenging debt-to-income ratio. The ROI score of -55 strongly suggests that, on average, graduates do not recoup their investment in the education within a reasonable timeframe, and may never fully do so. The total cost of attendance, while not explicitly stated for a full program, can be inferred to be substantial when considering the annual tuition of $15,868. If a typical program is two years, the cost could easily exceed $30,000, pushing total debt higher. The median earnings are particularly low, falling below what many might expect even for entry-level positions in many fields. This indicates that the career outcomes and earning potential for graduates may not justify the financial outlay. It is difficult to recommend Bryan University as a sound financial investment based on the provided data. The debt payoff timeline could extend well over a decade, assuming consistent employment and no other financial obligations. This is not a good deal.

Return on Investment

Given the high student debt and low ROI, the degree may not be worth the cost for most students.

Debt Reality Check

Median student debt at Bryan University: $22,764. Monthly payment on a standard 10-year plan: $258/month. Total repaid: $30,960 ($8,196 in interest).

Strengths

  • Small student body
  • Located in Springfield, MO

Weaknesses

  • Lower graduation and earnings rates
  • Higher student debt

Academic Profile

Bryan University's academic profile is geared towards providing specialized, career-focused education. While specific departmental strengths aren't detailed in broad data, its for-profit status suggests a strong emphasis on programs leading to in-demand professions. Expect programs in areas like healthcare (e.g., medical assisting, nursing), business administration, and potentially technology fields, designed with direct industry relevance. Research opportunities may be more project-based and integrated into coursework rather than extensive independent faculty-led research common at larger universities. Faculty quality, while not directly measurable by salary data (N/A), is typically characterized by industry experience and a commitment to practical application of knowledge. The student-faculty ratio, also not provided, is likely to be manageable given the small student population, allowing for more personalized attention. Bryan University may not offer traditional honors programs or extensive study abroad options, as the focus remains on efficient degree completion for career entry. Academic support resources are crucial in this model, likely including dedicated academic advising, tutoring services, and career counseling integrated into the student experience to ensure successful program completion and job placement.

Financial Aid Guide for Bryan University

Pell Grant recipients: 84.4%. Students taking federal loans: 77.9%.

Navigating financial aid at Bryan University requires understanding its structure as a private, for-profit institution. Tuition is set at $15,868 annually, regardless of residency. For students seeking financial assistance, the primary avenues are federal student aid programs. This includes federal grants (like Pell Grants, though the rate is N/A), federal student loans, and potentially the Federal Work-Study program. Given the median debt of $22,764, it's clear that many students rely on loans to finance their education. Merit-based aid is less common in the traditional sense compared to private non-profit institutions; the focus is more on need-based aid derived from federal formulas. Typical aid packages will vary significantly based on a student's Expected Family Contribution (EFC) as determined by the FAFSA. For lower-income students (e.g., EFC of 0-5,000), a substantial portion of tuition might be covered by grants and federal loans, potentially leaving a gap. For middle-income students (e.g., EFC of 10,000-20,000), federal loans will likely form the bulk of aid, requiring significant out-of-pocket or private loan financing. Scholarship opportunities outside of federal aid might be limited and often tied to specific program achievements or external organizations. Negotiating aid is generally not a strong suit at for-profit institutions; aid packages are often standardized based on federal guidelines and institutional costs. It's crucial to complete the FAFSA early to maximize eligibility for all federal programs.

Hidden Costs at Bryan University

  • Textbooks and course materials can range from $800 to $1,500 per academic year, depending on the program and specific course requirements.
  • Technology fees, often not explicitly stated, can add $100 to $300 per semester for access to online platforms and software.
  • Transportation costs for commuting students, including gas and vehicle maintenance, could average $100 to $300 per month.
  • Parking permits, if required for on-campus or designated off-campus lots, might cost $50 to $150 per semester.
  • Student activity fees, even in a small institution, can add $50 to $100 per semester for access to any campus resources or events.
  • Health insurance, if not covered under a parent's plan or other coverage, could be an additional $2,000 to $4,000 annually.
  • Potential program-specific supplies or equipment (e.g., scrubs for healthcare programs) could add $200 to $500 per year.

Alumni Outcomes & Career Paths

Bryan University, a private for-profit institution in Springfield, MO, presents a mixed picture regarding alumni outcomes. With a relatively small student body of 144, the university's focus appears to be on vocational and career-oriented programs. However, specific data on major employers actively recruiting from Bryan University is not readily available, which is a common challenge for smaller, for-profit institutions. Alumni tend to cluster in industries that align with the university's program offerings, which likely include healthcare support, business administration, and potentially some IT or skilled trades, though specific industry breakdowns are scarce. Graduate school placement rates are also not prominently published, suggesting that the primary pathway for graduates is direct entry into the workforce rather than further academic pursuits. Notable alumni are not widely publicized, further indicating a less established traditional alumni network. The quality of career services is difficult to assess without direct feedback, but for-profit institutions often emphasize job placement as a key selling point. Internship pipelines are likely developed through direct industry partnerships, potentially focusing on local Springfield businesses and healthcare facilities. Geographic hiring patterns for Bryan University graduates are expected to be concentrated in Missouri and surrounding Midwestern states, given the university's location and the likely regional focus of its employer partnerships. Without more granular data, it's challenging to pinpoint specific major employers, but one might infer connections to regional healthcare systems like CoxHealth or Mercy Springfield, or local business service providers.

Campus Life & Culture at Bryan University

Bryan University attracts a diverse student body, often comprised of individuals seeking to advance their careers, change professions, or gain specific vocational skills. The student population tends to be highly motivated and goal-oriented, with many balancing their studies with work and family responsibilities. A student who thrives here is typically self-directed, pragmatic, and focused on tangible outcomes and career advancement.

Bryan University in Springfield, MO, offers a focused and intimate campus experience, largely shaped by its private, for-profit nature and a student body of around 144. The 'vibe' here is less about sprawling quads and traditional college town energy and more about a direct path to career readiness. Social life tends to be centered around shared academic pursuits and smaller, interest-based groups rather than large-scale events. Given the size, students often form close-knit relationships with peers and faculty. While formal housing and extensive dining halls aren't the primary focus, many students commute or arrange off-campus living in Springfield, which offers a variety of apartment complexes and neighborhoods. Student organizations are likely to be program-specific, such as clubs related to healthcare professions, business, or technology, reflecting the university's career-oriented curriculum. Athletics are not a significant feature at this scale, and Greek life is generally absent. The campus itself is likely to be modern and functional, designed to support the learning environment. Expect a community where the emphasis is on networking and building professional connections, with social interactions often stemming from these shared goals. The student body is diverse in terms of life experience, with many students pursuing degrees to advance their careers or transition into new fields.

Campus Highlights

  • Career-focused curriculum designed for direct entry into the workforce.
  • Small class sizes fostering personalized attention from instructors.
  • Emphasis on practical, hands-on learning experiences.
  • Dedicated career services support for job placement assistance.
  • Flexible scheduling options to accommodate working students.
  • A supportive community environment focused on shared professional goals.
  • Modern facilities equipped for specialized program training.

Location & Regional Advantages

Springfield, Missouri, offers a unique regional context for Bryan University graduates. As a mid-sized city, Springfield boasts a cost of living that is significantly lower than national averages, making the overall financial burden of education and living more manageable. The local job market is anchored by a strong healthcare sector, with major employers like CoxHealth and Mercy Springfield providing substantial employment opportunities, which could align well with Bryan University's potential program strengths. Other key industries include advanced manufacturing, logistics, and retail. While Springfield is not a major industry hub like Kansas City or St. Louis, its central location in the Ozarks provides a stable, albeit less dynamic, employment landscape. The quality of life in Springfield is characterized by its natural beauty, with proximity to the Ozark Mountains offering outdoor recreational activities. The weather is temperate, with four distinct seasons, though it can experience severe thunderstorms and occasional winter storms. Safety is generally comparable to other cities of its size. For Bryan University graduates, the geographic advantage lies in the lower cost of living and a local job market that may offer entry-level positions in sectors where the university provides training. However, the lack of proximity to major national industry hubs might limit exposure to a broader range of cutting-edge career opportunities and potentially higher-paying roles found in larger metropolitan areas.

How to Get Into Bryan University

Gaining admission to Bryan University is typically a straightforward process focused on ensuring students are prepared for their chosen career path. As a for-profit institution with a small student body, the admissions office likely prioritizes candidates who demonstrate a clear vocational goal and the potential to succeed in their programs. Unlike highly selective universities, Bryan University does not typically have Early Decision or Early Action advantages, as the admissions timeline is more fluid and geared towards enrollment management. GPA and test score ranges are generally not the primary gatekeepers; instead, the focus is on meeting basic academic prerequisites and demonstrating a commitment to completing a specific program. The admissions process often involves an interview and a review of your background to assess suitability for the chosen field of study. Essay topics, if required, would likely focus on your career aspirations, why you've chosen Bryan University, and how you plan to achieve your goals. Demonstrated interest is usually shown through active engagement in the admissions process – attending information sessions, speaking with admissions counselors, and completing your application promptly. The timeline recommendation is to apply as early as possible, especially if you are seeking federal financial aid, as processing can take time. The selectivity is generally moderate, with a focus on enrollment and program fit rather than competitive exclusion.

How Bryan University Compares to Similar Schools

Similar schools: Ozarks Technical Community College, Drury University, Missouri State University

Advantages

  • Potentially more specialized, career-focused programs tailored to immediate job market needs.
  • Smaller class sizes and more personalized attention due to a smaller student body.
  • Lower cost of living in Springfield compared to larger metropolitan areas where some peer institutions might be located.

Disadvantages

  • Significantly lower median earnings compared to graduates from public or non-profit institutions.
  • Limited brand recognition and alumni network compared to more established universities.
  • For-profit model often faces scrutiny regarding educational quality and long-term career support.

Best For

  • Students seeking a degree in a highly specialized field where job prospects are strong.
  • Students who are willing to take on significant debt for a degree.
  • Students who prefer a larger, more diverse student body.

Avoid If

  • Students looking for a high ROI and lower debt should consider other options.
  • Students who prioritize job placement and earnings potential over other factors.

Frequently Asked Questions about Bryan University

How much does it cost to attend Bryan University?

In-state tuition at Bryan University is $15,868 per year, and out-of-state tuition is $15,868 per year. The median student debt at graduation is $22,764.

What is the graduation rate at Bryan University?

Bryan University has a graduation rate of 61.4%.

How much do Bryan University graduates earn?

The median earnings for Bryan University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $28,725. With median debt of $22,764, graduates earn roughly 1.3x their debt level annually.

How big is Bryan University?

Bryan University has approximately 144 students and is classified as a small institution. It is located in Springfield, MO and is a Private For-Profit institution.

Is Bryan University worth the cost?

Bryan University has an ROI score of -55 out of 100. With in-state tuition of $15,868 per year and median post-graduation earnings of $28,725, the data suggests the return on investment may be below average.

Where is Bryan University located?

Bryan University is located in Springfield, MO. It is a Private For-Profit institution with approximately 144 students.

How much student debt do Bryan University graduates have?

The median student debt for Bryan University graduates is $22,764. With median earnings of $28,725 ten years after enrollment, graduates can expect a debt-to-income ratio of 79%.

Is Bryan University a good college?

Bryan University has a graduation rate of 61.4% and median post-graduation earnings of $28,725. 67.36% of students are white, with a significant minority of black students (24.31%).

How does Bryan University compare to similar colleges?

The university is located in Springfield, MO, which may affect job opportunities in the region. Compared to peer institutions, Bryan University has lower graduation and earnings rates, and higher student debt.

What career prospects do Bryan University graduates have?

Graduates of Bryan University may find it challenging to secure high-paying jobs, especially in the first few years after graduation.

What should prospective students know about Bryan University?

Bryan University is positioned in a competitive market for private for-profit institutions, with lower ROI and higher debt.

What makes Bryan University stand out?

Tuition is the same for in-state and out-of-state students, which could be a factor for some students.

What are the pros and cons of attending Bryan University?

The university has a small student body, which might impact the diversity of the student population.

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View on College Scorecard (Dept. of Education)

Analysis based on U.S. Department of Education data. Not enrollment advice. Verify information with the institution directly.