At $4,293/yr net price, Albany Technical College graduates earn $30,541/yr within 10 years of enrollment.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $4,293 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $17,172 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $30,541/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | $-3,459/yr |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 34.1% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $12,412 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $3,928/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $4,471/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $6,399/yr |
| $110,001+ | $7,356/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electrical/Electronics Maintenance and Repair Technology. | Associate | $42,728 | |
| Heavy/Industrial Equipment Maintenance Technologies. | Certificate | $39,369 | |
| Practical Nursing, Vocational Nursing and Nursing Assistants. | Certificate | $38,649 | $9,641 |
| Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions. | Certificate | $35,772 | |
| Heating, Air Conditioning, Ventilation and Refrigeration Maintenance Technology/Technician (HAC, HACR, HVAC, HVACR). | Certificate | $35,600 | |
| Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions. | Associate | $33,993 | |
| Fire Protection. | Certificate | $33,993 | |
| Ground Transportation. | Certificate | $33,687 | $3,750 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Associate | $32,569 | $14,246 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Certificate | $29,685 | $11,080 |
The Risk Factor
34.1% of students at Albany Technical 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
Albany Technical College delivers solid returns for career-focused students willing to complete specific technical programs. At $4,293 annually, the school costs less than most alternatives, but the 34% graduation rate means many students leave without credentials.
Electrical and heavy equipment maintenance programs generate the strongest returns, with graduates earning over $39,000 annually against minimal debt loads. Practical nursing offers excellent value at $38,649 in median earnings with only $9,641 in typical debt. HVAC and allied health programs also produce earnings well above the school's overall median of $30,541.
The financial risk centers on program completion. If you struggle with hands-on technical coursework or lack clear career direction, you face high odds of dropping out with debt but no degree. The job market in southwest Georgia provides steady demand for skilled trades, making this location advantageous for technical graduates.
You should consider Albany Tech if you want direct entry into healthcare or skilled trades without the time and cost of a four-year degree. The school works best for students who know their target career and can handle technical training intensity. Avoid this path if you need extensive academic support or prefer classroom-based learning over practical skills training.
Financial aid covers 62% of students, and the low sticker price means most graduates avoid heavy debt burdens. Focus on programs with strong employment pipelines rather than general studies options that show weaker earnings potential.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Albany Technical College worth the cost?
Albany Technical College offers a low net price of $4,293 per year, making it affordable for technical training. However, the 34% graduation rate and median earnings of $30,541 after 10 years suggest mixed value depending on your program choice.
What are the highest paying programs at Albany Technical College?
Electrical/Electronics Maintenance leads with $42,728 median earnings, followed by Heavy Equipment Maintenance at $39,369 and Practical Nursing at $38,649. These technical programs offer the best return on investment at the college.
How much debt do Albany Technical College graduates have?
The median debt is $12,412, which is manageable given the low annual cost. With smart program selection in electrical or equipment maintenance, graduates can pay this off relatively quickly.
What is the graduation rate at Albany Technical College?
Only 34% of students graduate, which is concerning for completion risk. Students should have clear career goals and strong study habits before enrolling, as many don't finish their programs.