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Strayer University-Tennessee

Memphis, TN 38118 — Private For-Profit

Value Score: 65/100 | ROI Score: -28 | Affordability Score: 75/100

Tuition (In-State): $13,920 | Out-of-State: $13,920

Retention Rate: 100.0%

Median Earnings (10yr): $40,092 | Median Debt: $40,621

Student Body Size: 1,784 (small)

Pell Grant Recipients: 86.9% | Federal Loan Rate: 91.6%

Average Faculty Salary: $8,381/month

Tuition & Affordability Analysis

In-state tuition at Strayer University-Tennessee is $13,920 per year, which is 65% below the national average for private institutions.

Out-of-state students pay $13,920/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: $55,680 (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 Strayer University-Tennessee:

  • Families earning $0–$30,000: $3,078/year
  • Families earning $110,000+: $20,213/year

Low-income families receive an average discount of $10,842/year, paying just 22% of the sticker price.

Graduate Outcomes & Return on Investment

First-year retention rate: 100.0% (23% above the national average). A retention rate above 90% signals high student satisfaction and strong first-year experience programs.

Graduates of Strayer University-Tennessee earn a median salary of $40,092 ten years after enrollment, near the national average. This represents a $5,092/year earnings premium over the average high school diploma holder, or $152,760 in additional lifetime earnings over a 30-year career.

The median student debt at graduation is $40,621, 89% above the national average. On a standard 10-year repayment plan at 5.5% interest, this translates to approximately $441/month, with a total repayment of $52,920 (including $12,299 in interest).

Debt-to-Earnings Ratio: 1.01x. This is a concerning ratio. Graduates may struggle with loan repayment. Consider financial aid options carefully.

Breakeven Point: Based on the earnings premium over high school graduates, a degree from Strayer University-Tennessee pays for itself in approximately 11 years. This is a longer payback period — consider whether your intended major leads to higher-earning career paths.

Financial Aid Profile

86.9% of students at Strayer University-Tennessee receive Pell Grants (federal need-based aid for families earning under ~$60,000), 163% 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.

91.6% of students take federal loans, 95% 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: $8,381/month, 4% below the national average. Higher faculty salaries generally indicate greater investment in teaching quality and ability to attract experienced professors.

Student Body & Campus Diversity

Strayer University-Tennessee enrolls 1,784 undergraduate students. This mid-sized institution offers a balance between personalized attention and diverse academic offerings.

Diversity Index: 50/100 (higher = more diverse). The campus has moderate diversity.

Student body composition: White 30%, Hispanic 1%, Black 64%, Asian 0%.

Strayer University-Tennessee: Small Private For-Profit Institution with Online Focus

Report Card: Overall Grade D+

Strayer University-Tennessee receives an overall grade of D+ based on six dimensions:

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

College Analysis

Strayer University-Tennessee is a Private For-Profit institution in Memphis, TN with approximately 1,784 students. Strayer University-Tennessee offers a small, private for-profit education with a focus on online and hybrid learning. The university has a high median debt for graduates, which may impact their financial stability post-graduation. Strayer University-Tennessee has a strong online presence, making it accessible to students in various locations. The university's earnings 10 years after graduation are below the national average, indicating potential career challenges.

The Verdict: Is Strayer University-Tennessee Worth It?

Strayer University-Tennessee presents a challenging value proposition. With a median 10-year earnings of $40,092 and median debt of $40,621, graduates are essentially starting their careers with debt equal to their annual earnings. The ROI Score of -28 strongly indicates a negative return on investment, suggesting that the earnings potential post-graduation does not adequately compensate for the cost of the degree and the incurred debt. The tuition of $13,920 per year, while in line with many private institutions, becomes a significant burden when coupled with the relatively modest median earnings. A rough calculation suggests it would take over 10 years to pay off the debt solely from the median earnings, without accounting for living expenses or interest. This school is not a good deal. It appears overpriced for the career outcomes it delivers. The recommendation is to carefully consider alternative institutions that offer stronger earning potential relative to their cost and debt load, or to explore programs with demonstrably higher ROI.

Return on Investment

The degree from Strayer University-Tennessee may not be worth the cost given the high tuition and median debt, but the online learning options can be valuable.

Debt Reality Check

Median student debt at Strayer University-Tennessee: $40,621. Monthly payment on a standard 10-year plan: $461/month. Total repaid: $55,320 ($14,699 in interest).

Breakeven vs high school diploma: 4 years. Debt burden: Moderate. Salary needed for comfortable repayment: $55,320.

Strengths

  • Strong online and hybrid learning options
  • Accessible to students in various locations

Weaknesses

  • High tuition and median debt
  • Below-average earnings 10 years post-graduation

Academic Profile

Retention Rate: 100.0%.

Strayer University-Tennessee's academic offerings are strategically designed to meet the demands of the current job market, with a strong emphasis on career-relevant programs. Key areas of strength often include business administration, information technology, and healthcare management, reflecting the needs of the Memphis economy and beyond. While specific research opportunities for undergraduates may be limited compared to traditional research universities, faculty engagement often takes the form of applied projects and case studies that prepare students for real-world challenges. Faculty quality is a critical component, and while specific salary data isn't provided, Strayer's model typically involves experienced practitioners and educators who bring practical industry knowledge into the classroom. The student-faculty ratio, though not explicitly stated, is generally managed to allow for personalized attention, especially in smaller class settings common in adult education models. Honors programs are not a primary focus, as the university prioritizes accessible pathways to degrees for its working student population. Study abroad opportunities are typically not a feature of Strayer's model, which is more focused on local and online learning. Academic support resources are robust, including tutoring services, writing centers, and career services, all aimed at ensuring student success and degree completion.

Financial Aid Guide for Strayer University-Tennessee

Pell Grant recipients: 86.9%. Students taking federal loans: 91.6%.

Navigating financial aid at Strayer University-Tennessee requires a clear understanding of its tuition structure and available support. The stated in-state and out-of-state tuition of $13,920 per year forms the baseline cost. Strayer, as a for-profit institution, primarily relies on federal financial aid, including Pell Grants for eligible students with demonstrated financial need, and federal student loans. Merit-based aid and institutional scholarships are less common compared to traditional non-profit universities; the focus is more on making education accessible through federal programs and payment plans. For students with a Pell Grant eligibility, a significant portion of tuition could be covered. For example, a student receiving the maximum Pell Grant ($7,395 for 2023-2024) would still need to cover approximately $6,525 annually. Federal loan programs are widely utilized, with the median debt of $40,621 suggesting many students finance a substantial part of their education this way. Work-study opportunities may be available but are often limited. Typical aid packages will vary greatly based on individual financial circumstances, FAFSA results, and eligibility for federal aid. Negotiating aid is generally not a standard practice at Strayer; the focus is on providing clear pathways to financing through established federal and private loan options. Students should meticulously complete their FAFSA to maximize eligibility for grants and loans.

Hidden Costs at Strayer University-Tennessee

  • Textbooks and course materials can range from $800 to $1,500 per academic year, depending on the program and required readings.
  • Technology fees, often around $100-$200 per term, contribute to the upkeep of online learning platforms and campus IT infrastructure.
  • Transportation costs, including gas, vehicle maintenance, or public transit fares, can add $500 to $2,000 annually, especially for commuting students in Memphis.
  • Parking permits, if required for on-campus access, might cost $50 to $150 per semester.
  • Student activity fees, typically $25-$50 per term, support campus services and student organizations.
  • Potential costs for professional certifications or licensing exams related to specific programs can range from $100 to $500 or more.
  • Graduation fees, often a one-time charge of $100-$200, are assessed upon completion of degree requirements.

Alumni Outcomes & Career Paths

Strayer University-Tennessee, located in Memphis, primarily serves a student population seeking career advancement and flexibility. While specific data on major employers actively recruiting from the Tennessee campus is limited, Strayer's national network suggests alumni often find roles within the business services, healthcare administration, and IT sectors. Graduates may find employment with large regional employers in Memphis such as FedEx, International Paper, and St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, particularly in administrative, operational, or support roles. The for-profit model often emphasizes practical, career-focused programs, meaning alumni are likely to cluster in industries that value immediate workforce readiness. Graduate school placement rates are not prominently published, suggesting a primary focus on direct entry into the workforce rather than advanced academic pursuits. Notable alumni are not widely publicized for this specific campus, reflecting its focus on serving the local and regional working adult population. Career services at Strayer aim to provide resume assistance, interview preparation, and job search strategies, though the depth of employer partnerships and internship pipelines can vary. Given the university's national presence, internship opportunities might be more prevalent in larger metropolitan areas where Strayer has a stronger footprint. Geographic hiring patterns for Strayer-Tennessee graduates are likely concentrated within the Memphis metropolitan area and surrounding Tennessee, Mississippi, and Arkansas regions, aligning with the university's mission to serve local communities.

Campus Life & Culture at Strayer University-Tennessee

The student body at Strayer University-Tennessee is predominantly composed of adult learners, many of whom are working professionals seeking to enhance their career prospects or transition into new fields. This demographic typically leads to a diverse student population in terms of age, background, and life experience, fostering a collaborative and mature learning environment where students often share valuable real-world insights. Students who thrive here are typically self-motivated, goal-oriented, and possess strong time-management skills to balance academic demands with existing life commitments.

Strayer University-Tennessee, located in Memphis, offers a distinct campus experience primarily geared towards adult learners and those balancing education with work and family commitments. The student body is largely comprised of working professionals seeking to advance their careers, which shapes a campus culture that is focused, driven, and practical. Social life isn't centered around traditional residential campus activities like dorm parties or large-scale events, but rather on networking and peer support within a professional development context. Student organizations tend to be program-specific or career-focused, providing opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals in fields such as business, IT, and healthcare. While there isn't a traditional Greek life or extensive athletics program, the university fosters a sense of community through shared academic goals and professional aspirations. The campus itself is designed for accessibility and convenience, with facilities supporting focused study and interaction. Dining options are typically limited to what's available in the immediate vicinity of the campus, encouraging students to utilize local Memphis eateries or bring their own meals. The 'vibe' is one of serious academic pursuit and career enhancement, where students are motivated by tangible outcomes and the pursuit of higher earning potential. Expect a mature student population where interactions are often professional and geared towards mutual advancement.

Campus Highlights

  • Career-focused curriculum designed for immediate job market relevance.
  • Flexible scheduling options, including evening and online classes, catering to working adults.
  • Emphasis on practical skills and real-world application of knowledge.
  • Supportive environment for adult learners balancing education with personal and professional responsibilities.
  • Proximity to Memphis's diverse job market and professional networking opportunities.
  • Dedicated career services to assist with job placement and advancement.
  • Accessible learning environment with a focus on student success and degree completion.

Location & Regional Advantages

Strayer University-Tennessee's location in Memphis, TN, offers a mixed bag of geographic advantages for its students. Memphis boasts a significant logistics and transportation hub, with major employers like FedEx and UPS having a substantial presence, creating potential opportunities for graduates in supply chain management, operations, and related fields. The city also has a growing healthcare sector, anchored by institutions like Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare and St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, which can be advantageous for those in healthcare administration or related programs. The cost of living in Memphis is generally lower than the national average, making the overall financial burden of education and living more manageable for students. However, Memphis faces challenges related to crime rates and economic disparities, which can impact the perceived quality of life and safety for some students. Proximity to major industry hubs is moderate; while Memphis is a significant regional center, it's not as close to the scale of diverse industries found in cities like Nashville or Atlanta. The weather is characterized by hot, humid summers and mild winters, which is a typical Southern climate. Post-graduation, the local job market in Memphis offers opportunities, but the breadth of industries may be narrower compared to larger, more diversified economies, potentially limiting career mobility for some graduates without further specialization or relocation.

How to Get Into Strayer University-Tennessee

Gaining admission to Strayer University-Tennessee is generally a straightforward process, as the institution prioritizes accessibility and providing pathways to higher education for motivated individuals. Unlike highly selective universities, Strayer does not typically utilize Early Decision or Early Action programs, nor do they place significant emphasis on GPA or standardized test scores (SAT/ACT are not required). The admissions office primarily looks for a commitment to academic success and a clear career objective. Applicants are typically required to have a high school diploma or GED. Essays are not usually a significant part of the application; the focus is more on completing the application form accurately and providing necessary documentation. Demonstrated interest is not a formal factor in admissions decisions. The timeline is flexible, with rolling admissions being common, allowing students to apply and enroll throughout the year. The key to a successful application is ensuring all prerequisite documentation is submitted promptly and that the applicant demonstrates a genuine desire to complete their chosen program and advance their career.

How Strayer University-Tennessee Compares to Similar Schools

Similar schools: Remington College-Memphis Campus, Southwest Tennessee Community College, Christian Brothers University

Advantages

  • Focus on career-oriented programs designed for working adults.
  • Flexible scheduling options often available, catering to students balancing work and education.
  • National network of campuses and online programs can offer broader reach for some career paths.

Disadvantages

  • Lower median earnings compared to many traditional universities.
  • Higher debt-to-earnings ratio, indicating a potentially weaker return on investment.
  • For-profit status can sometimes lead to perceptions of lower academic rigor compared to non-profit institutions.

Best For

  • Students looking for flexible online education options
  • Working professionals seeking to balance education with work

Avoid If

  • Students prioritizing low tuition and debt
  • Those seeking on-campus experiences

Frequently Asked Questions about Strayer University-Tennessee

How much does it cost to attend Strayer University-Tennessee?

In-state tuition at Strayer University-Tennessee is $13,920 per year, and out-of-state tuition is $13,920 per year. The median student debt at graduation is $40,621.

How much do Strayer University-Tennessee graduates earn?

The median earnings for Strayer University-Tennessee graduates 10 years after enrollment is $40,092. With median debt of $40,621, graduates earn roughly 1.0x their debt level annually.

How big is Strayer University-Tennessee?

Strayer University-Tennessee has approximately 1,784 students and is classified as a small institution. It is located in Memphis, TN and is a Private For-Profit institution.

Is Strayer University-Tennessee worth the cost?

Strayer University-Tennessee has an ROI score of -28 out of 100. With in-state tuition of $13,920 per year and median post-graduation earnings of $40,092, the data suggests the return on investment may be below average.

Where is Strayer University-Tennessee located?

Strayer University-Tennessee is located in Memphis, TN. It is a Private For-Profit institution with approximately 1,784 students.

How much student debt do Strayer University-Tennessee graduates have?

The median student debt for Strayer University-Tennessee graduates is $40,621. With median earnings of $40,092 ten years after enrollment, graduates can expect a debt-to-income ratio of 101%.

Is Strayer University-Tennessee a good college?

Strayer University-Tennessee has a graduation rate of N/A and median post-graduation earnings of $40,092. High tuition and median debt for students

How does Strayer University-Tennessee compare to similar colleges?

Strong online and hybrid learning options Compared to peer institutions, Strayer University-Tennessee has higher tuition and median debt, but offers strong online learning options.

What career prospects do Strayer University-Tennessee graduates have?

Graduates may find career opportunities limited, but the online learning options can be beneficial for those seeking flexible education.

What should prospective students know about Strayer University-Tennessee?

Strayer University-Tennessee is well-positioned for students seeking online education but may struggle in the job market compared to public institutions.

What makes Strayer University-Tennessee stand out?

Predominantly African American student body

What are the pros and cons of attending Strayer University-Tennessee?

Below-average earnings 10 years post-graduation

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