At $21,682/yr net price, American Academy McAllister Institute of Funeral Service graduates earn $54,695/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $20,695/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $21,682 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $86,728 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $54,695/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$20,695/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 4.2 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 28.6% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $21,150 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $18,630/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $24,735/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Funeral Service and Mortuary Science. | Associate | $46,217 | $22,300 |
The Risk Factor
28.6% of students at American Academy McAllister Institute of Funeral Service 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
American Academy McAllister Institute delivers questionable financial returns despite serving a specialized industry with steady demand. Your median debt of $21,150 creates a manageable burden, but the 28.6% graduation rate signals serious completion risks that could leave you with debt and no credential.
The school's single focus on funeral service limits your options if you change direction. Graduates earn $46,217 annually in their field, which covers loan payments but provides modest income growth potential. The funeral industry offers job security as an essential service, yet wages remain relatively flat compared to other healthcare-adjacent fields.
You face significant completion risk here. Nearly three in four students fail to graduate, making this program financially dangerous unless you have strong motivation for the funeral service profession specifically. The specialized nature means few credits transfer if you need to switch schools.
This school works financially if you have genuine interest in funeral service, can handle the program's demands, and live in the New York area where funeral directors earn above-national-average salaries. The debt load stays reasonable for the income level, and only 37% of students need financial aid, suggesting many can pay without borrowing.
Avoid McAllister if you are exploring career options, struggle with science coursework, or need backup plans. The low graduation rate combined with narrow career focus creates substantial financial risk. Consider community colleges offering mortuary science programs with better completion rates and lower costs before committing to this specialized institution.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is American Academy McAllister Institute of Funeral Service worth the cost?
The ROI is poor with graduates earning $54,695 ten years later while paying $21,682 annually. The 28.6% graduation rate is extremely low, meaning most students don't finish.
How much debt do American Academy McAllister Institute of Funeral Service graduates have?
Median debt is $21,150, which is manageable compared to other schools. However, the low earnings of $54,695 make repayment challenging relative to income.
What programs at American Academy McAllister Institute of Funeral Service have the best job prospects?
The school only offers Funeral Service and Mortuary Science programs, with graduates earning around $46,217. Job security in funeral services is steady, but pay growth is limited.
Should I attend American Academy McAllister Institute of Funeral Service or go elsewhere?
Consider community college mortuary programs first, as they cost less and lead to similar careers. The 28.6% graduation rate suggests many students struggle to complete this program.