At $4,067/yr net price, Alpena Community College graduates earn $36,442/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $2,442/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $4,067 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $16,268 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $36,442/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$2,442/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 6.7 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 50.2% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $9,024 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $1,336/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $1,608/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $5,127/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $7,747/yr |
| $110,001+ | $10,113/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Civil Engineering Technologies/Technicians. | Associate | $52,107 | |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Associate | $49,214 | |
| Electrical and Power Transmission Installers. | Certificate | $46,478 | $5,500 |
| Electrical and Power Transmission Installers. | Associate | $44,933 | |
| Health/Medical Preparatory Programs. | Associate | $44,649 | |
| Criminal Justice and Corrections. | Associate | $31,038 | |
| Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services. | Associate | $27,440 | |
| Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies. | Certificate | $22,578 | |
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. | Associate | $17,489 |
The Risk Factor
50.2% of students at Alpena Community College graduate within 6 years. More than half of students finish, but the dropout rate is a real factor in whether this investment pays off.
Analysis
Alpena Community College delivers strong financial returns for a community college, with a remarkably low net price of just over $4,000 annually and manageable debt loads under $10,000 for most graduates. Your biggest financial wins come from technical programs that align with northern Michigan's infrastructure and healthcare needs.
The nursing program stands out with graduates earning $49,214 annually, while civil engineering technology graduates command over $52,000. Electrical and power transmission programs offer excellent value, producing $44,000-$46,000 earners with debt as low as $5,500. These technical fields capitalize on the region's energy infrastructure and healthcare systems.
The 50% graduation rate creates significant financial risk if you struggle with self-direction or need extensive academic support. You could waste time and money without completing your credential. The 75% retention rate suggests many students who start do continue, but finishing requires commitment.
This school works best financially if you want practical, job-ready skills in healthcare or trades rather than academic transfer preparation. The low cost makes it ideal for career changers or working adults who need flexible, affordable training. Skip Alpena if you need a traditional college experience or plan to transfer to a four-year university, as the limited course offerings may not align with transfer requirements.
With only 21% of students receiving financial aid, most pay the low sticker price directly. This suggests either a self-selecting population of students who can afford the modest costs or limited aid availability. The combination of low costs and strong technical program outcomes makes this a solid financial bet for the right student.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Alpena Community College worth the money?
Alpena Community College offers solid value with a low net price of $4,067 per year and median debt of just $9,024. However, graduates earn $36,442 ten years later, which is below average for college graduates.
What programs at Alpena Community College have the best job prospects?
Civil engineering technology and nursing programs lead earnings at Alpena Community College, with graduates making $49,000-$52,000 annually. Electrical and power transmission programs also pay well at around $45,000-$46,000.
How much student debt do Alpena Community College graduates have?
Alpena Community College graduates typically leave with $9,024 in debt, which is manageable compared to four-year schools. The low debt load helps offset the modest earnings potential.
What is the graduation rate at Alpena Community College?
Alpena Community College has a 50% graduation rate. About half of students who start the program finish within the expected timeframe.