Franklin University: Programs, Cost & Outcomes (2026)

Franklin University is a private, nonprofit institution based in Columbus, OH. Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), Franklin is a smaller online university with 5,562 students enrolled — but it punches above its weight in graduate earnings. The university is known for its deep IT and computer science portfolio, unique business forensics program, and focus on serving working adults.

At a Glance

Cost and Financial Aid

Published tuition at Franklin University is $9,577 per year (same rate for all students). The average net price after grants and scholarships is $25,243 per year.

37% of students receive Federal Pell Grants, and 41% take out federal student loans. Median graduate debt is $20,836.

Net Price by Family Income

Franklin’s net price is relatively flat across income brackets, with lower-income students seeing minimal reduction from the average. Use the EFC Calculator to estimate your Student Aid Index and see what grants you may qualify for.

Student Outcomes

Franklin University graduates earn a median salary of $51,892 ten years after enrollment and $49,189 at the six-year mark. The relatively small gap between 6-year and 10-year earnings suggests that Franklin graduates enter the workforce at competitive salary levels and maintain growth.

ROI Snapshot

With median debt of $20,836 and median 10-year earnings of $51,892, Franklin graduates earn approximately $2.49 for every $1 of debt at graduation. While the 21% graduation rate is low, it may reflect Franklin’s adult student population — many of whom are working and attending part-time, which depresses the official rate. Use the ROI Calculator to model your personal scenario.

Programs

Franklin offers programs across 7 major fields, with particular depth in technology and business.

Nursing and Healthcare

Degree levels: Bachelor’s, Master’s, Doctoral

• Nursing (RN-BSN)
• M.S. Nursing
• Nurse Practitioner programs

RN-BSN plus advanced practice nursing programs, nurse preceptor partnerships.

Business and Management

Degree levels: Bachelor’s, Master’s, Doctoral

• B.S. Business Administration
• MBA
• DBA
• B.S. Management and Leadership
• B.S. Marketing

20+ business degree programs, applied management track, sport management.

Education and Teaching

Degree levels: Bachelor’s, Master’s

• B.S. Primary Education (PK-5)
• B.S. Middle Childhood Education
• B.S. Adolescence to Young Adult Education (7-12)
• M.Ed.

Multiple licensure tracks, intervention specialist programs (mild-moderate, moderate-intensive).

Technology and Computer Science

Degree levels: Bachelor’s, Master’s

• B.S. Computer Science
• B.S. Cybersecurity
• B.S. Information Technology
• B.S. Cloud Computing
• M.S. Computer Science

Deep IT/CS portfolio: cybersecurity, cloud computing, data analytics, and information systems.

Criminal Justice

Degree levels: Bachelor’s

• B.S. Criminal Justice Administration
• B.S. Public Safety Management and Leadership
• B.S. Business Forensics

Business forensics track unique to Franklin.

Psychology and Counseling

Degree levels: Bachelor’s, Master’s

• B.S. Psychology
• M.S. Business Psychology

Business psychology master’s bridges counseling and business disciplines.

Liberal Arts and Humanities

Degree levels: Bachelor’s, Master’s

• B.S. Communications
• B.S. Social Sciences
• B.S. Public Health
• M.S. Communications

Health communication and strategic communication master’s tracks.

Who Franklin Is Best For

Franklin University is a strong choice for students interested in technology, cybersecurity, or the unique business forensics program. The $51,892 median 10-year earnings rate is competitive, and the $20,836 median debt is moderate. Franklin’s smaller size means smaller class sections and potentially more faculty attention than mega-scale online programs.

Students who want a broader program catalog or higher graduation rates should compare ASU Online (350+ programs, 68% grad rate) or SNHU (200+ programs).

Data sourced from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Program availability and costs are subject to change. Contact Franklin University directly for the most current information.