At $5,427/yr net price, Alaska Christian College graduates earn $25,787/yr within 10 years of enrollment.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $5,427 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $21,708 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $25,787/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | $-8,213/yr |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 11.6% |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $3,744/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $6,998/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $9,429/yr |
The Risk Factor
11.6% of students at Alaska Christian 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
Alaska Christian College presents serious financial risks that outweigh its low cost. The 11.6% graduation rate means most students leave without completing their programs, and the $25,787 median earnings after 10 years barely exceed what many high school graduates earn in Alaska's economy.
The extremely low graduation rate creates the biggest financial hazard. You face high odds of accumulating debt and lost time without earning a credential. Even students who do graduate see modest earnings that may not justify the opportunity cost of two years out of the workforce.
Alaska's job market favors trades and resource extraction over the liberal arts and ministry programs this college emphasizes. The disconnect between curriculum and regional employment opportunities explains why graduates struggle to find well-paying positions locally.
This school might work financially if you plan to transfer credits to a four-year institution and can handle the low completion rates. The $5,427 annual cost makes it affordable compared to most colleges, but only if you actually finish your program and successfully transfer.
You should look elsewhere if you need strong career placement support or want reasonable assurance of completing your degree. The combination of poor retention and limited local job prospects for graduates creates substantial financial risk. Consider Alaska's community college system instead, which offers better completion rates and programs aligned with the state's economy at similar price points.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Alaska Christian College worth the cost?
Alaska Christian College has very poor return on investment with graduates earning only $25,787 annually ten years after enrollment. The extremely low 11.6% graduation rate means most students don't complete their programs, making the investment risky even at the relatively low net price of $5,427 per year.
What is the job outlook for Alaska Christian College graduates?
Alaska Christian College graduates face limited earning potential with median salaries of $25,787 ten years post-enrollment. This income level is well below national averages and may not provide sufficient return on educational investment.
How much debt do Alaska Christian College students typically have?
While Alaska Christian College has a lower net price at $5,427 annually, the 11.6% graduation rate means most students may accumulate debt without completing their degree. Even modest debt becomes problematic when paired with low graduation rates and below-average earning outcomes.
Should I attend Alaska Christian College or look at other options?
The combination of Alaska Christian College's 11.6% graduation rate and low graduate earnings suggests exploring other educational options. Students should carefully consider whether this institution provides adequate preparation for career success given its completion and earnings track record.