Risepoint, a leading education technology company, today shared findings from a new Ipsos study showing a strong return on investment (ROI) for graduates of Risepoint-supported degree programs. Risepoint is an education technology company that helps regional universities launch and grow high-quality programs for modern learners in nursing, teaching, business, and other high-demand sectors.
Amidst the continued national conversation around the cost and value of higher education, Risepoint commissioned its fourth annual ROI study with global research leader Ipsos. Ipsos surveyed 8,565 graduates of university partners supported by Risepoint. Graduates were working either full- or part-time both before and after completing their degree program.
The survey found that recent graduates of Risepoint-supported programs averaged low total tuition ($22,000), significant salary increases one year after graduation (+18 percent), and a short tuition payback period of 1.8 years. The study’s results continue to reflect how the Risepoint model enables universities to deliver high-value, workforce-relevant programs that strengthen student outcomes and local communities.
Additional key findings from the 2026 Ipsos study include:
- Graduates saw an even larger average salary increase (33 percent) three years after degree completion.
- A majority (52 percent) funded their degrees without taking out any student loans.
- An overwhelming majority of graduates (85 percent) agree their degree was worth the investment.
- 78 percent of graduates would recommend their degree program to a friend or colleague.
- The ability to continue working was the top reason for choosing online over on-campus or hybrid (59 percent), and 99 percent stayed employed during their program.
- 89 percent agree that, because of their online degree, they were able to continue living and working in their local communities.
“As advances in AI and economic shifts fuel new questions about the future of work, modern learners need confidence that higher education will deliver practical, lasting value,” said Fernando Bleichmar, CEO of Risepoint. “For the fourth consecutive year, these results prove that when regional universities offer flexible, high-demand programs, graduates achieve rapid payback, build meaningful careers, and strengthen their local communities. Risepoint remains deeply committed to helping our partner institutions expand access to education that genuinely pays off.”
“What stands out in this research is the consistency of outcomes,” said Chris Moessner, Executive Vice President at Ipsos. “From career growth and earnings to community impact, graduates of Risepoint-supported programs continue to study strong satisfaction with their investment in higher education. These findings highlight the important role that accessible, career-focused education can play in helping learners achieve their professional ambitions.”
The full Ipsos survey results can be found here.
About Risepoint
Risepoint is a global education technology company that helps regional universities launch and grow online programs for modern learners. Risepoint supports more than 100 universities and colleges across five countries, with programs concentrated in high-demand fields including nursing, healthcare, teaching, business, technology, and public service. Our suite of products and services supports the full student journey and each university’s long-term goals. Together, we increase access to affordable education that delivers a strong return on investment for learners and meets employer and community needs. Learn more at risepoint.com.
About Ipsos
Ipsos is one of the world’s leading market research and opinion polling companies, operating in 90 markets and employing nearly 20,000 people. Our passionately curious research professionals, analysts and scientists have built unique multi-specialist capabilities that provide true understanding and powerful insights into the actions, opinions and motivations of citizens, consumers, patients, customers or employees. Our 75 business solutions are based on primary data from our surveys, social media monitoring, and qualitative or observational techniques. “Game Changers” – our tagline – summarizes our ambition to help our 5,000 clients navigate with confidence our rapidly changing world.
