The Risk Score formula combines three critical factors impacting student outcomes: debt burden (annual debt payments), earning potential (expected annual salary), and program completion probability (1 minus graduation rate). This metric creates a comprehensive risk assessment by multiplying the debt-to-income ratio by the likelihood of non-completion. The formula provides higher scores for institutions where students take on significant debt relative to potential earnings and have a lower chance of graduating, effectively identifying schools that pose the greatest financial risk to students. The statistical validity stems from using standardized federal data points and creating a normalized score that enables direct comparison across institutions.

From a student perspective, this metric provides crucial insights into the return on educational investment. The debt-to-income component (Annual Debt / Expected Salary) measures affordability of loan repayment, while the completion factor (1 - Graduation Rate) accounts for the risk of taking on debt without obtaining a degree. By combining these elements multiplicatively rather than additively, the formula appropriately amplifies risk when multiple negative factors are present. For example, a school with high debt relative to earnings ($40,000 debt / $30,000 salary = 1.33) and a low graduation rate (20% completion = 0.8 non-completion) would receive a high risk score of 1.064, alerting prospective students to the compounded financial danger. However, the formula's limitation is that it doesn't account for variations in program quality, student demographics, or institutional resources that may influence individual student outcomes.

Harris-Stowe State University

Institutional Overview Harris-Stowe State University is a public, historically Black university located in St. Louis, Missouri. Founded in 1857, the university has a total enrollment of around 1,400 students, primarily Black undergraduates. As an HBCU, Harris-Stowe plays a vital role in providing higher education access and opportunities for underrepresented minority students in the region. The university's mission focuses on delivering affordable, quality education to this student population.

Strengths

Harris-Stowe is praised for its supportive campus environment, with students describing a "home-felt vibe" and "great community spirit." The university maintains a low 8:1 student-faculty ratio, which could enable more personalized attention for students. Harris-Stowe also offers a diverse range of undergraduate programs, including popular majors in biology, criminal justice, and business administration. Additionally, the university provides robust online learning options, with 16% of students enrolled exclusively in distance education.

Weaknesses

Despite its strengths, Harris-Stowe faces significant challenges in student outcomes. The university has a low 20% six-year graduation rate and an 18.1% student loan default rate, indicating that many students struggle to successfully complete their degrees. As one student noted, "The school needs more resources and opportunities." Harris-Stowe's median graduate salary of $24,000 ten years after enrollment also raises concerns about the long-term value proposition for students.

Outcomes and Impacts

Harris-Stowe's poor performance is reflected in its #67 ranking out of 94 regional colleges, placing it in the bottom third of its peer institutions. While the university has maintained its accreditation status, it has faced accreditation concerns in the past due to its persistent challenges. As another student commented, "The professors are dedicated, but the university lacks the funding and infrastructure to truly support student success."

Bottom Line

To address its pressing weaknesses, Harris-Stowe should prioritize investments in comprehensive student support services, including enhanced academic advising, tutoring programs, and mental health resources. Improving graduation and default rates should be a key focus area, as these metrics are critical indicators of the university's ability to effectively serve its students.

Additionally, Harris-Stowe should explore strategic partnerships with local employers, nonprofits, and community organizations to create more internship and career placement opportunities for its students. Strengthening these connections could help better prepare graduates for in-demand careers and improve long-term outcomes.

Ultimately, while Harris-Stowe provides an affordable, supportive environment for its predominantly Black student body, its persistently low graduation rates and graduate earnings raise serious concerns about the institution's ability to deliver a high-quality, valuable education. Substantial reforms and strategic investments will be necessary for Harris-Stowe to address these challenges and position the university for long-term success.

Private Equity Zone

Student Voice

Students describe Harris-Stowe State University as having a supportive campus environment and dedicated faculty, but also lacking in resources and opportunities. They praise the school's affordability and diversity, while expressing frustration with administrative issues and a need for more scholarships and support, especially for international students. Overall, students report having a positive experience at Harris-Stowe, but believe the university could improve by investing in its campus and student services.

Here are student quotations demonstrating weaknesses at Harris-Stowe State University:

1."I would like to see more campus involvement and more safety officers here."

2. "The school needs more resources and opportunities."

3. "Administrative issues can be frustrating at times."

4. "I feel more scholarships and more attention can be put in place for international students."

Supportive Campus Environment: "The campus has a very home-felt vibe and the campus activities are always the best." "I'm proud to call Harris-Stowe my home for the next 3 years."

Dedicated Faculty: "The faculty are really dedicated, but the school could use more resources and opportunities." "The professors were very caring and attentive to their students."

Lack of Resources: "I would like to see more campus involvement and more safety officers here." "The school needs more resources and opportunities."

Valuable Opportunities: "Harris-Stowe gives you many opportunities, jobs, and even internships." "I particularly appreciated that the curriculum was challenging, yet comprehensive."

Frustrating Challenges: "Administrative issues can be frustrating at times." "I feel more scholarships and more attention can be put in place for international students."

Supportive Community: "The faculty and community at Bennett are amazing." "The campus vibe is great."

Need for Improvement: "I would like to see more change for international students with the financial side." "The school could use more resources and opportunities."

Overall Satisfaction: "I had a great experience there." "Harris-Stowe is affordable, accessible, and diverse."

Education Note: Harris-Stowe State, Hidden Private Equity

Education Note: Naropa University

Scenario: Within 8 years, and in a dramatic turn of fortunes, Putin claims the Weddell Oil Field as a Russian asset and asks Texas if it needs help with succession (Probability .39)