University of New Mexico

What are the graduation rates for students at University of New Mexico?

The graduation rates at University of New Mexico reflect a performance that is generally categorized as average, though situated in the lower half compared to other institutions nationally. The overall graduation rate stands at 53%, placing the university in the bottom 45th percentile. This means just over half of the enrolled students complete their programs, which may be a consideration for prospective students assessing completion outcomes.

When broken down by gender, male students graduate at a slightly lower rate of 48%, while female students have a higher graduation rate of 56%. Both figures remain within the bottom 45% and 40% percentiles respectively, indicating a consistent trend across gender lines with room for improvement in student retention and completion.

Looking specifically at time-bound graduation milestones, only 36% of students finish their degree within four years. This four-year graduation rate is also in the bottom 40th percentile, suggesting that a relatively small proportion of undergraduates complete their studies within the traditional timeframe. The six-year graduation rate improves somewhat, rising to 52%, but still falls into the bottom 45th percentile, further emphasizing the challenges many students face in completing their degrees promptly.

The rate at which students return for their second year, or retention rate, is measured at 73%. While this rate surpasses the midway point, it remains in the bottom 45th percentile nationally, pointing toward potential issues with student engagement, satisfaction, or external circumstances affecting continuity.

What is the earning potential for graduates at University of New Mexico?

The earning potential for graduates of University of New Mexico varies widely depending on the chosen field of study, with some programs offering considerably higher starting salaries than others. Graduates holding degrees in engineering disciplines generally command strong earnings. For instance, chemical engineering graduates earn around $69,148 annually, mechanical engineering majors about $60,481, while electrical, electronics, and communications engineering graduates make approximately $56,927. Civil engineering and computer engineering degrees yield starting earnings of $55,370 and $54,348 respectively.

Among technology-related degrees, computer and information sciences stand out with an average earning of $66,115, reflecting the growing demand in tech industries. Registered nursing graduates also report high initial earnings, averaging $71,723, which is one of the highest reported in the available data.

In the business and social sciences, salaries are more moderate. Business administration graduates start around $37,077, while political science majors earn about $29,067, and sociology graduates approximately $30,251. Degrees focusing on communication such as journalism provide earnings near $32,991. Criminal justice graduates earn roughly $31,091.

Humanities and language studies typically have lower earning rates. For example, philosophy majors earn about $20,078, English language and literature graduates receive $24,310, and romance languages-related degrees bring in around $27,770. Linguistic and related language studies start near $19,169, which is among the lower figures observed.

Fields connected to health sciences other than nursing show varied results; dental support services report average earnings of about $48,521, allied health professions $49,483, and clinical laboratory sciences $44,649. These figures highlight solid options for students interested in healthcare careers aside from direct patient care.

Education degrees show potential for competitive earnings as well. Special education graduates average $33,226, teacher education for specific levels earns $33,445, and specialization in specific subject areas starts near $30,884. These salaries suggest respectable prospects for those pursuing teaching careers.