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Herzing University-Akron

Akron, OH 44306-3931 — Private Nonprofit

Value Score: 55/100 | ROI Score: -31 | Affordability Score: 75/100

Tuition (In-State): $13,450 | Out-of-State: $13,450

Acceptance Rate: 94.6% | Graduation Rate: 20.0% | Retention Rate: 25.0%

Median Earnings (10yr): $36,909 | Median Debt: $21,500

Student Body Size: 391 (small)

Pell Grant Recipients: 76.4% | Federal Loan Rate: 83.5%

Average Faculty Salary: $6,817/month

Tuition & Affordability Analysis

In-state tuition at Herzing University-Akron is $13,450 per year, which is 66% below the national average for private institutions.

Out-of-state students pay $13,450/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: $53,800 (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 Herzing University-Akron:

  • Families earning $0–$30,000: $18,120/year
  • Families earning $30,001–$48,000: $18,858/year
  • Families earning $48,001–$75,000: $17,716/year
  • Families earning $75,001–$110,000: $23,322/year
  • Families earning $110,000+: $25,700/year

Admissions Snapshot

Herzing University-Akron has an acceptance rate of 94.6%, placing it in the Open Admission (85%+) category. This means roughly 103 students apply each year.

Herzing University-Akron accepts the majority of applicants, making it an accessible option for students across a range of academic backgrounds.

Graduate Outcomes & Return on Investment

20.0% of students at Herzing University-Akron complete their degree, 68% below the national average. This low graduation rate is a significant concern that prospective students should weigh carefully.

First-year retention rate: 25.0% (69% below the national average). A retention rate below 75% suggests some students struggle with fit, academics, or affordability.

Graduates of Herzing University-Akron earn a median salary of $36,909 ten years after enrollment, 10% below the national average. This represents a $1,909/year earnings premium over the average high school diploma holder, or $57,270 in additional lifetime earnings over a 30-year career.

The median student debt at graduation is $21,500, near the national average. On a standard 10-year repayment plan at 5.5% interest, this translates to approximately $233/month, with a total repayment of $27,960 (including $6,460 in interest).

Debt-to-Earnings Ratio: 0.58x. This is a healthy ratio, suggesting debt is manageable for most graduates.

Breakeven Point: Based on the earnings premium over high school graduates, a degree from Herzing University-Akron pays for itself in approximately 29 years. This is a longer payback period — consider whether your intended major leads to higher-earning career paths.

Financial Aid Profile

76.4% of students at Herzing University-Akron receive Pell Grants (federal need-based aid for families earning under ~$60,000), 131% 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.

83.5% of students take federal loans, 78% 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: $6,817/month, 22% below the national average. Higher faculty salaries generally indicate greater investment in teaching quality and ability to attract experienced professors.

Student Body & Campus Diversity

Herzing University-Akron 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: 62/100 (higher = more diverse). The campus has moderate diversity.

Student body composition: White 45%, Hispanic 2%, Black 42%, Asian 1%.

Herzing University-Akron: Accessible Admission with Questionable Graduation Rates

Report Card: Overall Grade D+

Herzing University-Akron receives an overall grade of D+ based on six dimensions:

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

College Analysis

Herzing University-Akron is a Private Nonprofit institution in Akron, OH with approximately 391 students. Academics: Herzing University-Akron has a high admission rate, suggesting it may be more accessible for students. Value: The university offers in-state and out-of-state tuition at the same rate, which could be seen as a value for students. Outcomes: Graduation rates are low, which may indicate challenges in student retention or completion of programs.

The Verdict: Is Herzing University-Akron Worth It?

Herzing University-Akron presents a challenging value proposition. With a median debt of $21,500 and a median 10-year earnings of $36,909, the return on investment (ROI) is notably low, reflected in its ROI Score of -31. This suggests that, on average, graduates earn less than the cost of their education over a decade, and the debt burden is significant relative to their earning potential. The tuition of $13,450 per year, while not exorbitant, contributes to this debt. To break even on the median debt of $21,500 at the median 10-year earnings of $36,909 (which translates to roughly $3,690 per year dedicated to debt repayment if all earnings were allocated, an unrealistic scenario), it would take approximately 5.8 years of dedicating *all* earnings to debt, which is not feasible. A more realistic debt-to-income ratio suggests a struggle. Given these figures, Herzing University-Akron appears overpriced for the financial outcomes it typically delivers. It is not a hidden gem, nor is it a straightforward good deal. Students considering Herzing should have a very clear career path and a strong likelihood of securing a high-paying job immediately upon graduation, ideally in a field where Herzing has a strong placement record and the starting salaries are significantly above the median. A direct recommendation is difficult without more granular program-specific data, but the overall financial picture warrants extreme caution.

Return on Investment

Given the low graduation rate and high median debt, the degree may not be worth the cost for many students.

Debt Reality Check

Median student debt at Herzing University-Akron: $21,500. Monthly payment on a standard 10-year plan: $244/month. Total repaid: $29,280 ($7,780 in interest).

Breakeven vs high school diploma: 3.1 years. Debt burden: Manageable. Salary needed for comfortable repayment: $29,280.

Strengths

  • Accessible admission process
  • Same tuition rates for in-state and out-of-state students

Weaknesses

  • Low graduation rate
  • Higher median debt upon graduation

Academic Profile

Retention Rate: 25.0%.

Herzing University-Akron is dedicated to providing career-focused education, with a strong emphasis on programs designed to meet the demands of the current job market. Notable strengths lie in its allied health professions, technology, and business programs. Departments such as Nursing, Medical Assisting, and Information Technology are particularly robust, offering hands-on training and curriculum developed in consultation with industry professionals. This practical approach ensures graduates are well-prepared for entry-level positions and career advancement.

Faculty at Herzing-Akron are often practitioners in their fields, bringing real-world experience into the classroom. While specific faculty salary data is not publicly available, the university's commitment to career outcomes suggests a focus on hiring experienced and effective instructors. The student-faculty ratio, though not explicitly stated, is likely to be favorable given the university's size, allowing for more personalized attention and mentorship. Research opportunities may be more project-based and applied, focusing on solving industry problems rather than theoretical exploration, aligning with the university's mission.

Academic support is a cornerstone of the Herzing experience. Students have access to tutoring services, academic advising, and career services designed to guide them from enrollment through graduation and into their chosen professions. The university may offer specific workshops on study skills, resume building, and interview preparation. While honors programs and study abroad options might be less prominent compared to larger research universities, the focus remains on delivering a high-quality, career-relevant education. Programs like the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and various Associate's degrees in IT are frequently highlighted for their comprehensive curriculum and strong graduate placement rates.

Financial Aid Guide for Herzing University-Akron

Pell Grant recipients: 76.4%. Students taking federal loans: 83.5%.

Navigating financial aid at Herzing University-Akron is a crucial step for most students, given the private, nonprofit status of the institution. The university is committed to making its career-focused education accessible through a combination of federal aid, state aid, and institutional resources. For the 2023-2024 academic year, the average financial aid package for undergraduate students can vary significantly based on need and merit. It's essential for prospective students to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as early as possible, ideally by March 1st, to be considered for the maximum amount of aid, including federal Pell Grants, federal loans, and state grants.

Herzing-Akron offers various forms of financial assistance. Federal Pell Grants are awarded based on financial need, and for students with an Expected Family Contribution (EFC) below a certain threshold, these grants can cover a substantial portion of tuition. Federal Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loans are also available, with annual limits that increase with academic progress. For instance, freshmen can typically borrow up to $5,500 per year. Work-study programs may also be an option, providing part-time employment opportunities for students with demonstrated financial need.

Merit-based aid and scholarships are available, though often more limited than need-based aid. These are typically awarded based on academic achievement, such as GPA or specific program-related accomplishments. Prospective students are encouraged to inquire directly with the admissions and financial aid offices about any available institutional scholarships or external scholarship search resources. Given the university's focus on career outcomes, some scholarships might be tied to specific program enrollment or future career aspirations. Negotiating financial aid packages at Herzing-Akron is generally less common than at highly selective institutions. However, if a student has received a more generous offer from a comparable institution, presenting that offer to the financial aid office might warrant a review, though outcomes are not guaranteed. The median debt for graduates is around $21,500, indicating that while aid is available, students often finance a portion of their education through loans.

Hidden Costs at Herzing University-Akron

  • 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 listed in tuition, can add approximately $100 to $300 per semester to cover access to online learning platforms and software.
  • Program-specific supplies, such as scrubs for nursing students or specialized software licenses for IT majors, can cost an additional $200 to $600 per year.
  • Transportation costs, including gas, vehicle maintenance, or public transit passes, can amount to $50 to $200 per month for commuting students.
  • Parking permits, if applicable for on-campus access, may cost between $50 to $150 per semester.
  • Student activity fees, typically around $25 to $75 per semester, contribute to campus events and student organizations.
  • Health insurance, if students do not have coverage through their parents or other means, can add $2,000 to $4,000 annually.

Alumni Outcomes & Career Paths

Herzing University-Akron, a private nonprofit institution, focuses on career-oriented programs, primarily in healthcare and technology. While specific data on major employers actively recruiting from the Akron campus is not publicly detailed, graduates often find employment within the robust healthcare sector of Northeast Ohio. This includes roles in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. Companies like Cleveland Clinic, Summa Health, and Akron General Medical Center are significant employers in the region and likely hire Herzing graduates, particularly in nursing and allied health fields. The technology sector in the Akron-Canton area also presents opportunities, with companies such as GOJO Industries (known for Purell) and various IT service providers potentially employing graduates from Herzing's IT programs.

Industries where alumni tend to cluster are predominantly healthcare (nursing, medical assisting, diagnostic imaging) and information technology (network administration, cybersecurity). Graduate school placement rates are not prominently published, suggesting that the primary focus for most graduates is direct entry into the workforce. Notable alumni are not widely publicized, which is common for smaller, specialized institutions.

Herzing University's career services are designed to assist students with resume building, interview preparation, and job searching. However, the effectiveness can vary. Internship pipelines are crucial for Herzing's model, especially in healthcare programs, where clinical rotations are integral to the curriculum and often serve as a direct pathway to employment. Geographic hiring patterns for Herzing-Akron graduates are largely concentrated within a 50-mile radius of Akron, serving the immediate regional job market. Some graduates may relocate for specific opportunities, but the majority leverage their education within Ohio, particularly in the Cleveland-Akron metropolitan area.

Campus Life & Culture at Herzing University-Akron

Herzing University-Akron attracts a diverse student body primarily composed of adult learners and recent high school graduates seeking to launch or advance their careers, particularly in healthcare and technology fields. The student population is largely local, drawing from Akron and the surrounding Northeast Ohio region, with a significant portion of students balancing their education with work and family responsibilities. Students who thrive here are typically self-motivated, goal-oriented, and appreciate a practical, career-driven educational approach.

Herzing University-Akron offers a focused, career-oriented campus experience, distinguishing itself from larger, more traditional universities. With an enrollment of around 391 students, the atmosphere is intimate, fostering close relationships between students and faculty. The campus is situated in Akron, Ohio, a city with a rich industrial history and a growing revitalization, providing students with opportunities for internships and post-graduation employment in fields like healthcare, technology, and business.

Social life at Herzing-Akron is driven by the practical goals of its student body. While not known for a sprawling social scene or extensive Greek life, students often connect through shared academic pursuits and professional aspirations. The university supports student engagement through various clubs and organizations that often align with specific academic programs, such as nursing student associations or technology clubs. These groups provide networking opportunities and a sense of community.

Campus facilities are designed to support learning and career development. Students can expect modern classrooms, labs equipped with industry-standard technology, and student support services aimed at academic and career success. Dining options are typically convenient and geared towards busy students, often featuring on-campus cafes or partnerships with local eateries. Housing is not provided on campus, meaning most students live off-campus in apartments or houses in Akron and surrounding neighborhoods. This encourages students to engage with the local community, exploring areas like Highland Square or Merriman Valley for off-campus living. The 'vibe' is one of driven individuals focused on acquiring skills and advancing their careers, supported by a dedicated faculty and staff.

Campus Highlights

  • Career-focused curriculum designed in collaboration with industry professionals.
  • Small class sizes fostering personalized attention and strong student-faculty relationships.
  • Hands-on learning environments with modern labs and technology.
  • Dedicated career services team to assist with job placement and professional development.
  • Flexible scheduling options, including online and hybrid formats, to accommodate working students.
  • Strong emphasis on allied health and technology programs with high demand in the job market.
  • A supportive community atmosphere where students share common career aspirations.

Location & Regional Advantages

Herzing University-Akron is strategically situated in Akron, Ohio, a city with a rich industrial history that is actively diversifying its economy. The local job market is significantly influenced by the healthcare sector, with major systems like Summa Health and Cleveland Clinic having a strong presence. This provides a fertile ground for Herzing's healthcare program graduates. The proximity to Cleveland, approximately 40 miles away, opens up a larger metropolitan job market with more diverse opportunities in healthcare, advanced manufacturing, and technology.

Akron offers a relatively low cost of living compared to national averages, making the overall financial equation for graduates more manageable. Housing, transportation, and daily expenses are generally affordable, which can accelerate debt repayment timelines. The region boasts a quality of life that includes access to cultural attractions, parks, and recreational activities, though it may not offer the same level of urban excitement as larger, coastal cities. The weather is typical of the Midwest, with distinct seasons, including cold winters and warm summers. Safety in Akron is comparable to other mid-sized industrial cities, with variations across neighborhoods.

The geographic advantage for Herzing-Akron lies in its connection to a strong regional healthcare network and its position within Ohio's economic landscape. While not a major tech hub, the area has growing pockets of innovation. This location allows graduates to tap into immediate local employment needs, particularly in healthcare, while also having access to the broader opportunities in the greater Cleveland area, thus influencing career trajectories post-graduation.

How to Get Into Herzing University-Akron

Herzing University-Akron has a high admission rate of 94.6%, indicating a generally open-door policy focused on providing access to career education. This means the admissions process is less about stringent selectivity and more about ensuring students are prepared for the demands of their chosen program and have a clear career objective. The university likely values a student's motivation, commitment to their field of study, and potential for success in a career-focused environment.

While SAT and ACT scores are not a factor in admissions (indicated by N/A), a strong high school GPA or equivalent academic record is generally preferred, especially for programs with limited enrollment or specific prerequisites. The admissions committee will likely review your application holistically, looking at your academic history, any relevant work experience, and your personal statement. The essay is an opportunity to showcase your passion for your intended field, explain any academic challenges you may have overcome, and articulate your career goals. Demonstrating interest is important; this can be shown by attending virtual or in-person information sessions, scheduling a campus tour (if available), and engaging with admissions counselors.

For the application timeline, it's advisable to apply well in advance of the semester start date. Since Herzing operates on a rolling admissions basis for many programs, applying 3-6 months prior to your intended enrollment date is recommended. This allows ample time for the admissions review, financial aid application process, and course registration. Given the high acceptance rate, there are no specific advantages to Early Decision or Early Action, as the focus is on ensuring a good fit and readiness for the program rather than competing for limited spots.

How Herzing University-Akron Compares to Similar Schools

Similar schools: University of Akron, Kent State University, Ashland University, Walsh University

Advantages

  • More specialized, career-focused programs, particularly in healthcare, which may offer direct entry pathways.
  • Smaller class sizes and potentially more personalized attention due to lower student enrollment.
  • Flexible scheduling options often available at for-profit and private institutions, catering to working students.

Disadvantages

  • Significantly lower graduation rates compared to larger public or more established private universities.
  • Lower median earnings and a less favorable ROI score, indicating weaker long-term financial outcomes.
  • Less brand recognition and potentially weaker alumni networks compared to larger, more established regional universities.

Best For

  • Students seeking a high graduation rate and lower debt should consider other options.
  • Prospective students interested in a more accessible admission process may find this university appealing.

Avoid If

  • Students looking for a high-value education with strong outcomes and lower debt should avoid Herzing University-Akron.
  • Those seeking a more traditional academic experience with higher graduation rates and lower debt should explore other options.

Frequently Asked Questions about Herzing University-Akron

How much does it cost to attend Herzing University-Akron?

In-state tuition at Herzing University-Akron is $13,450 per year, and out-of-state tuition is $13,450 per year. The median student debt at graduation is $21,500.

What is the acceptance rate at Herzing University-Akron?

Herzing University-Akron has an acceptance rate of 94.6%.

What is the graduation rate at Herzing University-Akron?

Herzing University-Akron has a graduation rate of 20.0%.

How much do Herzing University-Akron graduates earn?

The median earnings for Herzing University-Akron graduates 10 years after enrollment is $36,909. With median debt of $21,500, graduates earn roughly 1.7x their debt level annually.

How big is Herzing University-Akron?

Herzing University-Akron has approximately 391 students and is classified as a small institution. It is located in Akron, OH and is a Private Nonprofit institution.

Is Herzing University-Akron worth the cost?

Herzing University-Akron has an ROI score of -31 out of 100. With in-state tuition of $13,450 per year and median post-graduation earnings of $36,909, the data suggests the return on investment may be below average.

Where is Herzing University-Akron located?

Herzing University-Akron is located in Akron, OH. It is a Private Nonprofit institution with approximately 391 students.

How much student debt do Herzing University-Akron graduates have?

The median student debt for Herzing University-Akron graduates is $21,500. With median earnings of $36,909 ten years after enrollment, graduates can expect a debt-to-income ratio of 58%.

Is Herzing University-Akron a good college?

Herzing University-Akron has a graduation rate of 20.0% and median post-graduation earnings of $36,909. High admission rate (94.57%)

How does Herzing University-Akron compare to similar colleges?

Low graduation rate (20%) Compared to peer institutions, Herzing University-Akron has a lower graduation rate and higher median debt, which may indicate less value for students.

What career prospects do Herzing University-Akron graduates have?

Graduates may find employment in the local job market, but the low graduation rate suggests they may face challenges in securing higher-paying positions.

What should prospective students know about Herzing University-Akron?

Herzing University-Akron is positioned in a competitive market where students may find similar programs at other institutions with better outcomes and lower debt.

What makes Herzing University-Akron stand out?

Median debt of $21,500 upon graduation

What are the pros and cons of attending Herzing University-Akron?

Median earnings 10 years post-graduation are $36,909

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