CollegeTuitionData — College Data in Plain English

Morehouse College

Atlanta, GA 30314 — Private Nonprofit

Value Score: 65/100 | ROI Score: -60 | Affordability Score: 55/100

Tuition (In-State): $32,893 | Out-of-State: $32,893

Acceptance Rate: 44.0% | Graduation Rate: 56.0% | Retention Rate: 86.9%

Median Earnings (10yr): $52,889 | Median Debt: $25,000

SAT Average: 1090 | ACT Midpoint: 23

Student Body Size: 2,844 (medium)

Pell Grant Recipients: 44.7% | Federal Loan Rate: 57.4%

Average Faculty Salary: $8,703/month

Tuition & Affordability Analysis

In-state tuition at Morehouse College is $32,893 per year, which is 17% below the national average for private institutions.

Out-of-state students pay $32,893/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: $131,572 (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 Morehouse College:

  • Families earning $0–$30,000: $36,359/year
  • Families earning $30,001–$48,000: $36,534/year
  • Families earning $48,001–$75,000: $40,092/year
  • Families earning $75,001–$110,000: $41,179/year
  • Families earning $110,000+: $42,723/year

Admissions Snapshot

Morehouse College has an acceptance rate of 44.0%, placing it in the Selective (35–50%) category. This means roughly 1,617 students apply each year.

The average SAT score of admitted students is 1090, near the national average. This is within the mid-range nationally.

The ACT midpoint is 23, 10% above the national average.

Graduate Outcomes & Return on Investment

56.0% of students at Morehouse College complete their degree, 10% below the national average. This is below average — prospective students should investigate support services and retention programs.

First-year retention rate: 86.9% (7% above the national average). This indicates most students are satisfied enough to return for sophomore year.

Graduates of Morehouse College earn a median salary of $52,889 ten years after enrollment, 29% above the national average. This represents a $17,889/year earnings premium over the average high school diploma holder, or $536,670 in additional lifetime earnings over a 30-year career.

The median student debt at graduation is $25,000, 16% above the national average. On a standard 10-year repayment plan at 5.5% interest, this translates to approximately $271/month, with a total repayment of $32,520 (including $7,520 in interest).

Debt-to-Earnings Ratio: 0.47x. 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 Morehouse College pays for itself in approximately 8 years. This is a reasonable investment timeline.

Financial Aid Profile

44.7% of students at Morehouse College receive Pell Grants (federal need-based aid for families earning under ~$60,000), 35% above the national average. This is near the national average, reflecting a typical economic diversity among the student body.

57.4% of students take federal loans, 22% above the national average. This is a moderate borrowing rate.

Average faculty salary: $8,703/month, near the national average. Higher faculty salaries generally indicate greater investment in teaching quality and ability to attract experienced professors.

Student Body & Campus Diversity

Morehouse College enrolls 2,844 undergraduate students. This mid-sized institution offers a balance between personalized attention and diverse academic offerings.

Diversity Index: 5/100 (higher = more diverse). The student body is less diverse than average.

Student body composition: White 0%, Hispanic 0%, Black 97%, Asian 0%.

Morehouse College: A Strong Focus on Black Male Education with Mixed Outcomes

Report Card: Overall Grade C-

Morehouse College receives an overall grade of C- based on six dimensions:

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

College Analysis

Morehouse College is a Private Nonprofit institution in Atlanta, GA with approximately 2,844 students. Morehouse College has a high admission rate and a strong focus on black male education. Graduates have a median earnings of $52,889 after 10 years, but the ROI score is negative. The college has a low diversity in terms of race, with 97.26% of students being black. The tuition cost is the same for in-state and out-of-state students, making it more accessible.

The Verdict: Is Morehouse College Worth It?

Morehouse College presents a complex value proposition. With a median 10-year earning potential of $52,889 and a median debt of $25,000, the return on investment (ROI) score of -60 suggests a challenging financial payoff in the short to medium term. The tuition of $32,893 per year, without differentiation for in-state or out-of-state, is substantial. To recoup the cost of tuition alone ($131,572 over four years) based on median earnings, it would take approximately 2.5 years of post-graduation work, assuming all earnings go towards tuition and no interest accrues on debt. Factoring in the median debt of $25,000, the total financial outlay is around $156,572. Paying off this debt and tuition solely from the median salary would take roughly 3 years, not accounting for living expenses, taxes, or potential salary growth. While the median earnings are lower than the initial investment, Morehouse's value extends beyond immediate financial returns. The strong alumni network, emphasis on leadership development, and placement in high-earning fields like law and business can lead to significantly higher lifetime earnings for many graduates. However, based purely on the provided financial metrics, Morehouse College appears overpriced for the average graduate in terms of immediate financial return. It is not a clear 'good deal' but rather a significant investment that requires strategic career planning to maximize its long-term financial benefits. Recommendation: Consider Morehouse if you are committed to leveraging its powerful network and leadership programs for long-term career advancement, particularly in fields where alumni are highly successful, and be prepared for a longer debt-repayment period.

Return on Investment

Given the negative ROI score and high median debt, the degree may not be worth the cost for many students.

Debt Reality Check

Median student debt at Morehouse College: $25,000. Monthly payment on a standard 10-year plan: $284/month. Total repaid: $34,080 ($9,080 in interest).

Breakeven vs high school diploma: 1.1 years. Debt burden: Manageable. Salary needed for comfortable repayment: $34,080.

Strengths

  • Strong focus on black male education
  • Same tuition rates for in-state and out-of-state students
  • High admission rate

Weaknesses

  • Low graduation rate
  • Negative ROI score
  • Low diversity in student body

Academic Profile

SAT Average: 1090. ACT Midpoint: 23. Retention Rate: 86.9%.

Morehouse College is renowned for its rigorous academic environment, particularly its strengths in the humanities, social sciences, and pre-professional programs. The Martin Luther King Jr. International Chapel serves as a spiritual and intellectual center, reflecting the college's commitment to social justice and leadership. Notable departments include Political Science, which has a strong track record of producing leaders in government and public service, and the Business Administration program, which prepares students for careers in finance, marketing, and entrepreneurship. The Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields are also growing in prominence, with dedicated programs and research opportunities. Faculty quality is a cornerstone of the Morehouse experience, with professors often serving as mentors and guides beyond the classroom. While specific faculty salary data is not readily available, the commitment to personalized attention is evident. Research opportunities are available, particularly for students interested in pursuing graduate studies or careers in research-intensive fields. The Honors Program offers a more intensive academic experience for high-achieving students, with smaller class sizes and advanced coursework. Study abroad programs are encouraged, providing students with global perspectives. Academic support resources, including tutoring services, writing centers, and career counseling, are robust and designed to ensure student success.

Financial Aid Guide for Morehouse College

Pell Grant recipients: 44.7%. Students taking federal loans: 57.4%.

Navigating financial aid at Morehouse College requires a proactive approach, as the institution is committed to making its education accessible. While specific dollar figures for typical aid packages vary widely based on individual need and merit, it's crucial to understand the components. Morehouse offers a combination of need-based grants and scholarships, as well as merit-based awards. For students demonstrating significant financial need, federal aid programs like Pell Grants and federal student loans will likely form a substantial part of their package. The college also participates in the Federal Work-Study program, offering students opportunities to earn money through on-campus employment. Merit scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, leadership potential, and other distinguished qualities. Prospective students should meticulously complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) and the CSS Profile (if required) by the stated deadlines to be considered for all forms of aid. Scholarship applications, both internal and external, are critical. While Morehouse does not typically engage in extensive aid negotiation in the same way some larger private universities might, appealing an aid offer with new, documented information is sometimes possible, though not guaranteed. Families should budget for costs beyond tuition, such as room and board, books, and personal expenses, which can add several thousand dollars annually.

Hidden Costs at Morehouse College

  • Room and board costs can range from $12,000 to $15,000 annually, depending on the chosen meal plan and housing assignment.
  • Textbooks and course materials can easily add $1,000 to $1,500 per academic year.
  • Student activity fees, technology fees, and other miscellaneous campus fees can total $500 to $1,000 per year.
  • Transportation to and from campus, especially for students traveling from out of state, can be a significant expense, potentially ranging from $300 to $1,000+ annually.
  • Personal expenses, including toiletries, laundry, entertainment, and incidental purchases, can amount to $1,500 to $3,000 per year.
  • Health insurance, if not covered by a parent's plan, can cost upwards of $2,000 to $3,000 annually.
  • Parking permits, if applicable and available, can cost $100 to $300 per year.

Alumni Outcomes & Career Paths

Morehouse College graduates are well-positioned for success, particularly within the business, technology, and public service sectors. Major employers actively recruiting from Morehouse include Fortune 500 companies like Delta Air Lines, Coca-Cola, and AT&T, often seeking talent for roles in finance, marketing, and management. The technology sector also shows strong interest, with companies such as Microsoft, Google, and IBM frequently participating in career fairs and recruitment events. Alumni tend to cluster in industries such as finance and banking (e.g., Bank of America, Wells Fargo), consulting (e.g., Deloitte, Accenture), and media/entertainment (e.g., Turner Broadcasting, BET). Graduate school placement rates are robust, with many alumni pursuing advanced degrees in law, business, and public policy at top-tier institutions like Harvard Law School, Stanford Business School, and Georgetown University's McCourt School of Public Policy. Notable alumni include Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., former U.S. Senator Raphael Warnock, and actor Samuel L. Jackson, underscoring the diverse paths to influence and success. Morehouse's Career Services offers comprehensive support, including resume workshops, mock interviews, and networking events, fostering strong internship pipelines with companies like Goldman Sachs and NBCUniversal. Geographic hiring patterns show a significant concentration of alumni in major metropolitan areas, particularly Atlanta, New York City, Washington D.C., and Los Angeles, reflecting the school's strong national network and the career aspirations of its graduates.

Campus Life & Culture at Morehouse College

Morehouse College attracts a diverse cohort of ambitious young Black men from across the nation and internationally, united by a shared pursuit of excellence and leadership. Students who thrive here are driven, intellectually curious, and possess a strong sense of purpose and community responsibility.

Morehouse College cultivates a unique and powerful brotherhood, deeply rooted in its historic Atlanta University Center (AUC) consortium. The 'vibe' is one of purpose, intellectual curiosity, and a strong sense of community. As a historically Black men's college, the social scene is vibrant and centered around shared experiences and mutual uplift. While the AUC allows for interaction with students from Spelman, Clark Atlanta, and Morris Brown colleges, the core Morehouse experience is distinctly masculine and focused on leadership development. Housing is primarily dormitory-style, with options ranging from traditional halls for freshmen to suite-style living for upperclassmen. The dining hall, often referred to as 'The Caf,' is a central hub for meals and informal gatherings. Student organizations are plentiful, covering a wide spectrum from academic clubs and service fraternities (like Alpha Phi Alpha, Kappa Alpha Psi, Omega Psi Phi, and Phi Beta Sigma) to cultural groups and athletic teams. Greek life is a significant, albeit not all-encompassing, part of the social fabric, with Divine Nine fraternities playing a prominent role. Athletics, while not a primary focus for all students, offers opportunities for involvement and school spirit, particularly in basketball and football. Traditions like the annual 'Homecoming' and the 'Mr. Morehouse' competition are highly anticipated events that solidify the bonds among students and alumni. The campus itself, located in the heart of Atlanta, provides easy access to the city's cultural and professional opportunities, further enriching the student experience.

Campus Highlights

  • The historic Atlanta University Center (AUC) consortium, fostering collaboration with Spelman, Clark Atlanta, and Morris Brown.
  • The Martin Luther King Jr. International Chapel, a spiritual and intellectual hub.
  • A strong emphasis on leadership development and social justice advocacy.
  • A vibrant brotherhood that extends into a powerful alumni network.
  • Proximity to Atlanta's rich cultural, professional, and historical landscape.
  • The legacy of producing influential leaders in politics, business, and civil rights.
  • A unique and empowering environment for Black men's education.

Location & Regional Advantages

Morehouse College's location in Atlanta, Georgia, provides significant geographic advantages for its students and alumni. Atlanta boasts a dynamic and diverse job market, serving as a major hub for industries such as technology, film and television, logistics, and corporate headquarters. Companies like Delta Air Lines, Coca-Cola, Home Depot, and numerous tech startups have a strong presence, offering ample internship and post-graduation employment opportunities. The cost of living in Atlanta is generally more affordable than in other major coastal cities, allowing graduates to manage their student debt more effectively. Atlanta is also a cultural and educational center, with a vibrant arts scene, numerous historical landmarks, and a thriving culinary landscape, contributing to a high quality of life. While the weather is generally pleasant with four distinct seasons, summers can be hot and humid. Safety in Atlanta, like any large city, varies by neighborhood, but the university area is generally considered safe. Proximity to other major educational institutions in Atlanta, such as Spelman College, Clark Atlanta University, and Georgia Tech, fosters a collaborative academic and social environment and expands networking possibilities. This strategic location within a major Southern economic powerhouse significantly enhances career prospects, particularly for those seeking opportunities in the Southeast, while also serving as a gateway to national and international markets.

How to Get Into Morehouse College

Gaining admission to Morehouse College, with its 44.0% acceptance rate, requires a strong academic profile and a clear demonstration of alignment with the college's mission. While Morehouse does not offer Early Decision or Early Action, submitting your application well before the regular decision deadline is advisable to ensure full consideration for both admission and scholarships. The admissions committee highly values academic rigor, evidenced by GPA and course selection, as well as leadership potential, community involvement, and a compelling personal narrative. Strong applicants typically have a GPA well above a 3.0, though a higher average is more competitive. While SAT/ACT scores are not listed as required, if submitted, strong scores would certainly bolster an application. The essay is a critical component; focus on topics that showcase your character, your understanding of Morehouse's legacy, and how you plan to contribute to the brotherhood and the wider community. Highlight experiences that demonstrate resilience, leadership, and a commitment to service. Demonstrated interest is important; engage with the college through virtual or in-person information sessions, campus tours, and by connecting with admissions counselors. The ideal timeline involves researching the college thoroughly during your junior year, preparing your application materials in the early fall of your senior year, and submitting by the priority deadlines.

How Morehouse College Compares to Similar Schools

Similar schools: Howard University, Hampton University, Clark Atlanta University, Morehouse College

Advantages

  • Strongest alumni network among HBCUs, particularly in business and finance.
  • Unique focus on developing Black male leaders with a distinct curriculum and ethos.
  • Prime location in Atlanta, a major economic and cultural hub.

Disadvantages

  • Lower graduation rate compared to some peers.
  • Median earnings are not as high as some other institutions, potentially leading to a longer debt-payoff period.

Best For

  • Prospective students interested in a diverse educational experience may want to consider other institutions.
  • Students seeking a higher ROI may want to explore other options.

Avoid If

  • Students looking for a more diverse student body may want to consider other institutions.
  • Students with a high tolerance for debt may want to reconsider given the median debt of $25,000.

Frequently Asked Questions about Morehouse College

How much does it cost to attend Morehouse College?

In-state tuition at Morehouse College is $32,893 per year, and out-of-state tuition is $32,893 per year. The median student debt at graduation is $25,000.

What is the acceptance rate at Morehouse College?

Morehouse College has an acceptance rate of 44.0%.

What is the graduation rate at Morehouse College?

Morehouse College has a graduation rate of 56.0%.

How much do Morehouse College graduates earn?

The median earnings for Morehouse College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $52,889. With median debt of $25,000, graduates earn roughly 2.1x their debt level annually.

How big is Morehouse College?

Morehouse College has approximately 2,844 students and is classified as a medium institution. It is located in Atlanta, GA and is a Private Nonprofit institution.

Is Morehouse College worth the cost?

Morehouse College has an ROI score of -60 out of 100. With in-state tuition of $32,893 per year and median post-graduation earnings of $52,889, the data suggests the return on investment may be below average.

Where is Morehouse College located?

Morehouse College is located in Atlanta, GA. It is a Private Nonprofit institution with approximately 2,844 students.

How much student debt do Morehouse College graduates have?

The median student debt for Morehouse College graduates is $25,000. With median earnings of $52,889 ten years after enrollment, graduates can expect a debt-to-income ratio of 47%.

Is Morehouse College a good college?

Morehouse College has a graduation rate of 56.0% and median post-graduation earnings of $52,889. High admission rate of 43.96%

How does Morehouse College compare to similar colleges?

97.26% of students are black While Morehouse College has a strong focus on black male education and offers the same tuition rates for all students, the negative ROI score and low graduation rate may be concerning compared to peer institutions.

What career prospects do Morehouse College graduates have?

Graduates of Morehouse College are well-prepared for careers in leadership and public service, given the college's focus on black male education.

What should prospective students know about Morehouse College?

Morehouse College is well-positioned in the market for institutions that focus on black male education and leadership development.

What makes Morehouse College stand out?

Tuition is the same for in-state and out-of-state students

What are the pros and cons of attending Morehouse College?

Median earnings after 10 years are $52,889

Explore More

Colleges in Georgia

Browse all colleges in Georgia

Similar Schools

College Rankings

Research Tools

H-1B Visa Salary Data

Visit Morehouse College official website

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.