American University vs Gallaudet University
A side-by-side look at cost, graduate earnings, debt and return on investment. The better figure in each row is highlighted.
| American University Washington, DC | Gallaudet University Washington, DC | |
|---|---|---|
| ROI verdict | Strong return | Poor return |
| 10-year ROI | +81% | -42% |
| 10-year net gain | $143,068 | $-29,539 |
| Median earnings (5 yr) | $76,913 | $49,040 |
| Median earnings (1 yr) | $51,222 | $37,258 |
| Average net price | $41,943 | $15,845 |
| Median debt | $22,750 | $18,000 |
| Break-even | 5.5 yrs | 17.3 yrs |
| Graduation rate | 76% | 47% |
| Admission rate | 62% | 58% |
American University
Strong return
+$143,068 over 10 years
Graduate earnings clearly outpace the cost and debt — this degree pays back quickly.
Gallaudet University
Poor return
$-29,539 over 10 years
On these figures the cost and debt outweigh the earnings premium.
Source: U.S. Department of Education, College Scorecard. ROI is computed by Degree Return — see how. Read the methodology. Data as of 2024.