Monroe University
Bronx, NY 10468 — Private For-Profit
Value Score: 55/100 | ROI Score: -44 | Affordability Score: 75/100
Tuition (In-State): $18,464 | Out-of-State: $18,464
Acceptance Rate: 67.5% | Graduation Rate: 57.0% | Retention Rate: 66.5%
Median Earnings (10yr): $41,236 | Median Debt: $18,818
Student Body Size: 5,701 (medium)
Pell Grant Recipients: 55.1% | Federal Loan Rate: 44.3%
Average Faculty Salary: $6,359/month
Tuition & Affordability Analysis
In-state tuition at Monroe University is $18,464 per year, which is 53% below the national average for private institutions.
Out-of-state students pay $18,464/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: $73,856 (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 Monroe University:
- Families earning $0–$30,000: $14,058/year
- Families earning $30,001–$48,000: $13,671/year
- Families earning $48,001–$75,000: $14,847/year
- Families earning $75,001–$110,000: $18,981/year
- Families earning $110,000+: $18,837/year
Low-income families receive an average discount of $4,406/year, paying just 76% of the sticker price.
Admissions Snapshot
Monroe University has an acceptance rate of 67.5%, placing it in the Moderately Selective (50–70%) category. This means roughly 2,111 students apply each year.
Graduate Outcomes & Return on Investment
57.0% of students at Monroe University complete their degree, 8% below the national average. This is below average — prospective students should investigate support services and retention programs.
First-year retention rate: 66.5% (18% below the national average). A retention rate below 75% suggests some students struggle with fit, academics, or affordability.
Graduates of Monroe University earn a median salary of $41,236 ten years after enrollment, near the national average. This represents a $6,236/year earnings premium over the average high school diploma holder, or $187,080 in additional lifetime earnings over a 30-year career.
The median student debt at graduation is $18,818, 12% below the national average. On a standard 10-year repayment plan at 5.5% interest, this translates to approximately $204/month, with a total repayment of $24,480 (including $5,662 in interest).
Debt-to-Earnings Ratio: 0.46x. 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 Monroe University pays for itself in approximately 12 years. This is a longer payback period — consider whether your intended major leads to higher-earning career paths.
Financial Aid Profile
55.1% of students at Monroe University receive Pell Grants (federal need-based aid for families earning under ~$60,000), 67% 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.
44.3% of students take federal loans, 6% below the national average. This is a moderate borrowing rate.
Average faculty salary: $6,359/month, 27% below the national average. Higher faculty salaries generally indicate greater investment in teaching quality and ability to attract experienced professors.
Student Body & Campus Diversity
Monroe University enrolls 5,701 undergraduate students. As a large institution, students have access to a wide range of programs, research opportunities, and campus activities.
Diversity Index: 66/100 (higher = more diverse). The campus has moderate diversity.
Student body composition: White 3%, Hispanic 40%, Black 43%, Asian 2%.
Monroe University: Medium-Sized Private For-Profit Institution in Bronx, NY
- Monroe University: Bridging the Gap Between Bronx and Career Success?
- Decoding Monroe's ROI: Is This Bronx Education a Smart Investment?
- Beyond the Bronx: Exploring Career Trajectories from Monroe University
Report Card: Overall Grade C-
Monroe University receives an overall grade of C- based on six dimensions:
- Academics: C-
- Value: F
- Outcomes: C
- Affordability: A+
College Analysis
Monroe University is a Private For-Profit institution in Bronx, NY with approximately 5,701 students. Monroe University has a graduation rate of 57.03%, slightly below the national average for private for-profit institutions. The median earnings 10 years after graduation are $41,236, which is below the national average for similar institutions. The university's ROI score is -44, indicating that the degree may not be worth the cost compared to its peers.
The Verdict: Is Monroe University Worth It?
Monroe University presents a complex value proposition. With an in-state and out-of-state tuition of $18,464 and a median 10-year earnings of $41,236, the immediate financial picture appears challenging. The median debt of $18,818, while not excessively high, combined with the relatively modest median earnings, results in a significantly negative ROI Score of -44. This suggests that, on average, graduates take a considerable amount of time to recoup their educational investment, and the earnings may not substantially outpace their debt burden. The payoff timeline for the median debt of $18,818 at a typical 6% interest rate over 10 years would require monthly payments of approximately $200. If median earnings are $41,236 annually, this represents about 5.5% of gross income dedicated solely to debt repayment, which is manageable but leaves less disposable income for other financial goals. Given these figures, Monroe University appears to be an overpriced option for the average student, especially when compared to public institutions or other private universities with stronger post-graduation earning potential. The value is questionable unless a specific program offers demonstrably higher earning outcomes or the career services provide exceptional, personalized placement into high-demand, well-compensated roles that significantly exceed the median earnings. Recommendation: Proceed with extreme caution, thoroughly investigate program-specific outcomes, and explore all financial aid and scholarship options. Consider it a potentially poor financial decision unless specific, high-earning career paths are clearly defined and achievable.
Return on Investment
Given the negative ROI score and below-average earnings, the degree from Monroe University may not be worth the cost compared to its peers.
Debt Reality Check
Median student debt at Monroe University: $18,818. Monthly payment on a standard 10-year plan: $214/month. Total repaid: $25,680 ($6,862 in interest).
Breakeven vs high school diploma: 1.7 years. Debt burden: Manageable. Salary needed for comfortable repayment: $25,680.
Strengths
- Diverse student body
- Accessible admission process
- Same tuition rates for in-state and out-of-state students
Weaknesses
- Lower-than-average graduation rate
- Below-average median earnings 10 years after graduation
- Negative ROI score
Academic Profile
Retention Rate: 66.5%.
Monroe University's academic profile is geared towards providing practical, career-oriented education, a hallmark of its for-profit status. While specific departmental strengths can vary, programs in business, criminal justice, and health sciences are often prominent in institutions of this type, aiming to equip students with marketable skills. Research opportunities may be more focused on applied research and industry collaboration rather than extensive theoretical exploration, aligning with the university's mission to prepare graduates for immediate employment.
Faculty quality at Monroe is best understood through the lens of industry experience. While faculty salary data is not provided, it's common for for-profit institutions to attract instructors with significant professional backgrounds, bringing real-world insights into the classroom. The student-faculty ratio, also not provided, would be a key indicator of personalized attention; however, students are generally encouraged to seek out faculty for mentorship and career advice. Monroe may offer an honors program for high-achieving students, providing enriched academic experiences and potentially smaller class sizes. Study abroad opportunities might be less traditional, perhaps focusing on international business internships or short-term cultural immersion trips relevant to specific career paths. Academic support resources are crucial, likely including tutoring services, writing centers, and career counseling, all designed to bolster student success and retention towards graduation.
Financial Aid Guide for Monroe University
Pell Grant recipients: 55.1%. Students taking federal loans: 44.3%.
Navigating financial aid at Monroe University requires a proactive approach, especially given its private, for-profit nature. The stated tuition of $18,464 is a significant investment, and understanding the aid landscape is crucial. Monroe likely offers a combination of federal, state, and institutional aid. Federal aid, including Pell Grants for low-income students and federal student loans, will form the backbone of most aid packages. Given the median debt of $18,818, it's clear many students rely on loans to finance their education.
Merit-based aid might be available, though often less emphasized at for-profit institutions compared to need-based aid and federal programs. Scholarships could be offered directly by Monroe, potentially tied to academic achievement, specific program enrollment, or community involvement. It's essential to thoroughly research any institutional scholarships and their eligibility criteria. Work-study programs are also a possibility, providing on-campus employment opportunities to help offset living expenses.
For students with family incomes below $30,000, a significant portion of tuition might be covered by Pell Grants and federal loans, potentially leaving a gap that needs to be addressed through institutional aid or private loans. For middle-income families (e.g., $50,000-$75,000), the reliance on federal loans will likely increase, and institutional aid will be critical to making attendance feasible. Negotiating aid at for-profit universities can be challenging; while not impossible, the focus is often on standardized aid packages based on established formulas. Your best strategy is to present a strong application, demonstrate financial need through the FAFSA, and inquire about all available scholarships and grants. Be prepared to discuss your financial situation with the financial aid office, but understand that their flexibility may be limited compared to non-profit institutions.
Hidden Costs at Monroe University
- Technology Fee: A mandatory fee for access to online resources and campus technology, potentially ranging from $200 to $500 per year.
- Student Activity Fee: Covers student organizations, events, and campus programming, likely around $100 to $300 annually.
- Textbooks and Supplies: Depending on the program, these costs can easily add up to $800 to $1,500 per academic year.
- Transportation: Commuting in the Bronx and NYC can incur significant costs for public transport passes or parking, potentially $50 to $200 per month.
- Meal Plans (if applicable): While not always mandatory for commuters, on-campus dining options can cost $2,000 to $4,000 per academic year.
- Graduation Fee: A one-time fee charged upon completion of your degree, often between $100 and $300.
- Health Insurance: If not covered by a parent's plan, student health insurance can cost upwards of $2,000 per year.
Alumni Outcomes & Career Paths
Monroe University, a private for-profit institution in the Bronx, NY, positions its graduates primarily within the New York metropolitan area's robust service-based economy. While specific major employer recruitment data is not publicly detailed, institutions of this type often see alumni find roles in sectors such as healthcare support, administrative services, and retail. Graduates from programs like Business Administration, Criminal Justice, and Health Sciences are likely to be sought after by mid-sized companies and organizations within these fields. For instance, alumni might find employment at healthcare providers like Montefiore Medical Center or Northwell Health, or in administrative roles at financial services firms in Manhattan. The university's focus on career-oriented programs suggests a strong emphasis on practical skills, which can translate into immediate employability. However, detailed statistics on graduate school placement rates are not readily available, indicating that a significant portion of alumni may enter the workforce directly. Notable alumni are not widely publicized, which is common for institutions of this size and focus. Career services are a critical component for for-profit universities, and Monroe likely offers robust support in resume building, interview preparation, and job placement assistance, often leveraging connections within the local business community. Internship pipelines are crucial; students in programs like Paralegal Studies might intern at local law firms in White Plains or Manhattan, while business students could secure placements in accounting or marketing departments of companies in the surrounding counties. Geographic hiring patterns strongly favor the New York City metropolitan area, including the Bronx, Westchester, and parts of New Jersey and Long Island, due to the university's location and its network within this dense economic region.
Campus Life & Culture at Monroe University
Monroe University serves a diverse student body, with a significant portion likely being local residents from the Bronx and surrounding New York City boroughs, reflecting its urban accessibility. The student population is often characterized by a strong drive for career advancement and practical skill acquisition, making it an ideal environment for motivated individuals seeking to enter or advance in the workforce.
Monroe University in the Bronx offers a dynamic urban campus experience, deeply integrated with the vibrant life of New York City. As a private, for-profit institution, the student body is often highly motivated and career-focused, seeking to leverage their education for immediate professional advancement. The campus itself is a hub of activity, with students utilizing the surrounding Bronx neighborhoods for off-campus dining, entertainment, and cultural exploration. While traditional residential life might be less emphasized compared to a sprawling campus university, Monroe fosters a strong sense of community through its academic programs and student services.
Student organizations are diverse, reflecting the varied interests and backgrounds of the student population. These groups often focus on professional development, cultural exchange, and academic support, providing valuable networking opportunities. Given its urban setting, athletics may not be the central focus for all students, but there are opportunities for participation and support for various teams. The social scene is largely driven by the energy of New York City itself, with students taking advantage of world-class museums, theaters, restaurants, and nightlife. Campus events, workshops, and career fairs are key social and networking touchpoints. The 'vibe' at Monroe is one of ambition, practicality, and a direct connection to the professional world, making it an ideal environment for students who are driven, independent, and eager to make their mark in their chosen fields.
Campus Highlights
- Prime Bronx Location: Direct access to the cultural, economic, and professional opportunities of New York City.
- Career-Focused Curriculum: Programs designed with direct relevance to today's job market.
- Diverse Student Body: A rich mix of backgrounds and experiences contributing to a dynamic learning environment.
- Strong Industry Connections: Faculty often bring real-world professional experience, fostering valuable networking.
- Urban Integration: The campus is part of the city fabric, offering a unique blend of academic life and city living.
- Practical Skill Development: Emphasis on hands-on learning and skills acquisition for immediate employability.
Location & Regional Advantages
Monroe University's location in the Bronx, New York, offers a unique set of advantages and challenges for its students. The immediate job market in the Bronx and the broader New York City metropolitan area is vast and diverse, particularly strong in sectors like healthcare, finance, education, and retail. This proximity provides graduates with a significant advantage in securing local employment, as many businesses actively recruit from institutions within the city. The cost of living in the Bronx, while high compared to national averages, is generally more affordable than in Manhattan, offering students a slightly more manageable living expense during their studies. New York City is a global hub for numerous industries, including finance on Wall Street, media and advertising in Midtown Manhattan, and a burgeoning tech scene. This proximity to major industry hubs means that internship and job opportunities are abundant, and networking events are frequent. The quality of life in New York City is dynamic, offering unparalleled cultural attractions, diverse culinary scenes, and extensive public transportation. However, the city also faces challenges related to high population density, traffic congestion, and a competitive job market. Weather is typical of the Northeast, with four distinct seasons, including cold winters and warm summers. Safety can be a concern in certain areas, but the Bronx has seen improvements in recent years, and the university likely provides campus safety resources. Overall, the location provides unparalleled access to a massive job market and diverse career pathways, especially for those seeking roles in service-oriented industries within the metropolitan area.
How to Get Into Monroe University
Monroe University's admission rate of 67.5% suggests a moderately selective admissions process. While not highly competitive, a thoughtful application is still key to securing a spot. Monroe likely values a demonstrated commitment to career goals and a practical approach to education. Since SAT/ACT scores are not a factor, your high school GPA and the rigor of your coursework will be important indicators of academic preparedness. Focus on presenting a strong academic record, particularly in subjects relevant to your intended major.
The admissions office will likely look for students who are motivated and understand the value proposition of a Monroe education – career readiness and professional development. Your application essay is a prime opportunity to showcase this. Instead of generic personal narratives, consider essays that highlight your career aspirations, how Monroe's specific programs align with those goals, or experiences that demonstrate your resilience and determination. If you have relevant work experience or internships, be sure to detail them.
Monroe does not appear to have Early Decision or Early Action options, so the focus will be on the standard application timeline. Ensure all application materials, including transcripts and any required recommendations, are submitted well before the deadline to allow ample processing time. Given the selectivity, demonstrating interest through attending virtual or in-person information sessions, engaging with admissions counselors, and asking informed questions can positively influence your application. Focus on clearly articulating why Monroe is the right fit for your specific academic and career objectives.
How Monroe University Compares to Similar Schools
Similar schools: Berkeley College, LIM College, Pace University, Touro University
Advantages
- Strong focus on career-oriented programs and practical skills training.
- Location within the dense New York City metropolitan job market.
- Potentially more accessible admission standards compared to highly selective universities.
Disadvantages
- Lower median graduate earnings compared to many other institutions.
- Negative ROI score suggests a longer financial payback period.
- Limited public data on graduate school placement and alumni network strength.
Best For
- Students interested in local job markets and community service roles may find Monroe University a good fit.
- Prospective students looking for high earning potential and strong ROI may want to consider other options.
Avoid If
- Students seeking a high ROI and strong earning potential after graduation should avoid Monroe University.
- Out-of-state students may want to consider the cost of living in the Bronx before enrolling.
Frequently Asked Questions about Monroe University
How much does it cost to attend Monroe University?
In-state tuition at Monroe University is $18,464 per year, and out-of-state tuition is $18,464 per year. The median student debt at graduation is $18,818.
What is the acceptance rate at Monroe University?
Monroe University has an acceptance rate of 67.5%.
What is the graduation rate at Monroe University?
Monroe University has a graduation rate of 57.0%.
How much do Monroe University graduates earn?
The median earnings for Monroe University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $41,236. With median debt of $18,818, graduates earn roughly 2.2x their debt level annually.
How big is Monroe University?
Monroe University has approximately 5,701 students and is classified as a medium institution. It is located in Bronx, NY and is a Private For-Profit institution.
Is Monroe University worth the cost?
Monroe University has an ROI score of -44 out of 100. With in-state tuition of $18,464 per year and median post-graduation earnings of $41,236, the data suggests the return on investment may be below average.
Where is Monroe University located?
Monroe University is located in Bronx, NY. It is a Private For-Profit institution with approximately 5,701 students.
How much student debt do Monroe University graduates have?
The median student debt for Monroe University graduates is $18,818. With median earnings of $41,236 ten years after enrollment, graduates can expect a debt-to-income ratio of 46%.
Is Monroe University a good college?
Monroe University has a graduation rate of 57.0% and median post-graduation earnings of $41,236. A significant portion of students (42.99%) are Black, reflecting the demographics of the Bronx.
How does Monroe University compare to similar colleges?
The university has a relatively high admission rate of 67.51%, suggesting it may be more accessible than some private for-profits. Compared to peer institutions, Monroe University has lower median earnings and a negative ROI score, indicating it may not be the best value for students.
What career prospects do Monroe University graduates have?
Graduates of Monroe University may find employment opportunities in the local job market, particularly in industries that serve the diverse community of the Bronx.
What should prospective students know about Monroe University?
Monroe University is positioned in a competitive market within the private for-profit sector, offering a mix of accessibility and diversity but with lower-than-average earnings and ROI.
What makes Monroe University stand out?
The tuition is the same for in-state and out-of-state students, which could be a point of consideration for out-of-state applicants.
What are the pros and cons of attending Monroe University?
The median debt of $18,818 is above the national average for private for-profits, which could be a financial burden for students.
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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.