Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) recently made the Top 10 list of Affordable Colleges Online's (ACO) "Million Dollar ROI" rankings for 2013, a new list of private universities whose graduates out-earn non-degree holders by at least $1 million during their careers. Institutions on the list make up the top 1 percent of U.S. colleges as measured by return on investment.
"Some of today’s most recognizable universities appear on the list, despite higher tuition rates," ACO founder Dan Schuessler said in a prepared statement. "While ACO is dedicated to promoting affordability, these colleges provide significant value to their students. Students pay to gain the skills necessary for long-term career success."
Out of several thousand colleges analyzed, 46 total private colleges made the list. WPI ranked ninth on the list, just after Harvard University, Stanford University, and Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
In its listing, ACO says WPI "…offers top-notch education with a strong balance of practice and theory. WPI not only teaches some of today’s best and brightest, but they encourage betterment through action."
ACO notes that WPI's 30-year net return on investment is $1,316,000. Each school's return on investment figure derives from a three-tiered calculation: estimated 30-year earnings of graduates minus both projected earnings without a degree and four years of tuition and fees.
"More than ever families are insisting that colleges provide a strong return for their financial investment," said Kristin R. Tichenor, senior vice president at WPI. "We remain committed to providing challenging and comprehensive project-based learning that results in long and successful careers for our graduates. We are pleased to be recognized on this list for the value that we provide."
To view the complete list, visit Affordable Colleges Online.
