At $11,811/yr net price, Aaniiih Nakoda College graduates earn $30,528/yr within 10 years of enrollment.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $11,811 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $47,244 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $30,528/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | $-3,472/yr |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 32.4% |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $11,685/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $12,083/yr |
The Risk Factor
32.4% of students at Aaniiih Nakoda College graduate within 6 years. Fewer than half of students complete their degree. If you don't graduate, the financial investment may not pay off.
Analysis
Aaniiih Nakoda College presents a challenging financial picture with low returns and high completion risks. The median earnings of $30,528 ten years after enrollment barely justify the annual net price of $11,811, creating a payback timeline that stretches well beyond typical degree completion.
The 32% graduation rate poses the biggest financial threat to your investment. You face better than two-to-one odds of leaving without completing your degree while still carrying debt. This risk factor alone makes the college financially unsuitable for most students who have other viable options.
The school functions primarily as a tribal college serving the Fort Belknap Indian Reservation, which creates specific financial considerations. If you qualify for tribal educational benefits or specialized Native American scholarships, these can significantly improve your cost structure. The college's focus on culturally relevant education and local community needs may justify the investment despite lower earnings if you plan to work within the tribal community or in fields where cultural competency commands premium pay.
Your strongest financial strategy involves maximizing federal Pell Grants and tribal funding sources before taking any loans. Given the earnings outcomes, borrowing beyond minimal amounts creates long-term financial strain. The college works best financially for students who can attend with little to no debt and have specific career goals tied to the local community or tribal services.
If you need higher earning potential and have access to other institutions, you should explore those options. The financial case for Aaniiih Nakoda College depends heavily on non-monetary factors like cultural connection and community service rather than pure return on investment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Aaniiih Nakoda College worth the cost?
Aaniiih Nakoda College graduates earn $30,528 ten years after enrollment, which is below the national average for college graduates. With a net price of $11,811 annually, the return on investment is modest compared to other colleges.
What is the graduation rate at Aaniiih Nakoda College?
Aaniiih Nakoda College has a 32% graduation rate, which means about two-thirds of students do not complete their degree. This low completion rate significantly affects the school's overall value proposition.
How much debt do Aaniiih Nakoda College students typically have?
With a net price of $11,811 per year, students who complete a two-year program could face around $24,000 in total costs. Given the low graduation rate and modest post-graduation earnings, debt management is a serious concern.
Which programs at Aaniiih Nakoda College have the best job prospects?
As a tribal college, Aaniiih Nakoda College focuses on serving the Fort Belknap community with programs in education, business, and cultural studies. Career outcomes vary significantly by program, and students should research specific field employment rates before enrolling.