At $31,307/yr net price, Academy College graduates earn $48,300/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $14,300/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $31,307 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $125,228 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $48,300/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$14,300/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 8.8 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 100.0% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $29,500 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $31,383/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $34,240/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $27,918/yr |
The Risk Factor
100.0% of students at Academy College graduate within 6 years. Most students who start here finish their degree.
Analysis
Academy College delivers mixed financial returns that heavily depend on your chosen program and career goals. The median earnings of $48,300 ten years after graduation create a challenging payback scenario when weighed against the $31,307 annual net price and typical debt load of $29,500.
Your program choice makes or breaks the financial equation here. Technology and healthcare programs align better with local Twin Cities job market demands and salary expectations, while general business or liberal arts tracks may struggle to justify the investment. The aviation maintenance and IT programs historically produce graduates who can service the debt load more comfortably than those in lower-paying fields.
The 100% graduation rate looks impressive but masks retention concerns, with only 67% of students returning after freshman year. This suggests many students discover the financial reality doesn't match expectations early on. If you transfer out, you'll carry debt without the credential.
Academy College works financially if you're targeting specific technical careers where the training directly translates to employment in Minneapolis-St. Paul's strong healthcare and technology sectors. The school's career services focus on job placement rather than broad education, which can benefit your earning potential if you pick the right program.
With only 32% of students receiving financial aid, most students pay close to sticker price. Merit scholarships are limited, so expect to cover costs through loans or out-of-pocket payment. Community college alternatives for similar technical training often provide better value, making Academy College a viable choice primarily if you need the specific certifications or industry connections this school provides in your target field.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Academy College worth the cost?
Academy College graduates earn $48,300 annually after 10 years, which is relatively low given the $31,307 yearly cost. The high debt burden compared to earnings makes the financial return questionable for most students.
What is the return on investment for Academy College?
With graduates earning $48,300 after 10 years and typical debt of $29,500, Academy College shows poor ROI metrics. Students pay premium private college prices but see earnings closer to community college levels.
How much debt do Academy College students graduate with?
Academy College graduates carry a median debt of $29,500, which represents over 60% of their expected first-year earnings. This debt-to-income ratio creates significant financial stress for new graduates.
What programs at Academy College have the best job prospects?
Academy College focuses on career-oriented programs in technology and business, with a 100% graduation rate. However, even with strong completion rates, graduate earnings remain below average for the tuition investment required.