American InterContinental University System vs University of Arizona
A side-by-side look at cost, graduate earnings, debt and return on investment. The better figure in each row is highlighted.
| American InterContinental University System Chandler, AZ | University of Arizona Tucson, AZ | |
|---|---|---|
| ROI verdict | Poor return | Strong return |
| 10-year ROI | -27% | +188% |
| 10-year net gain | $-19,575 | $138,874 |
| Median earnings (5 yr) | $50,241 | $66,272 |
| Median earnings (1 yr) | $45,753 | $45,236 |
| Average net price | $15,172 | $16,674 |
| Median debt | $31,000 | $19,620 |
| Break-even | 13.7 yrs | 3.5 yrs |
| Graduation rate | 9% | 68% |
| Admission rate | — | 86% |
American InterContinental University System
Poor return
$-19,575 over 10 years
On these figures the cost and debt outweigh the earnings premium.
University of Arizona
Strong return
+$138,874 over 10 years
Graduate earnings clearly outpace the cost and debt — this degree pays back quickly.
Source: U.S. Department of Education, College Scorecard. ROI is computed by Degree Return — see how. Read the methodology. Data as of 2024.