At $24,592/yr net price, Aviation Institute of Maintenance-Atlanta graduates earn $48,191/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $14,191/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $24,592 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $98,368 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $48,191/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$14,191/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 6.9 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 52.0% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $31,500 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $23,499/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $24,074/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $25,482/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $27,946/yr |
| $110,001+ | $29,136/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies. | Certificate | $39,099 | $31,281 |
| Precision Metal Working. | Certificate | $28,598 | $14,750 |
The Risk Factor
52.0% of students at Aviation Institute of Maintenance-Atlanta 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
Aviation Institute of Maintenance-Atlanta delivers mixed financial returns that depend heavily on your career goals and debt tolerance. The school's $48,191 median earnings after 10 years provide a reasonable foundation, but the $31,500 typical debt load creates a challenging payback period for most graduates.
Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies generates the strongest earnings at $39,099 annually, though this comes with higher debt of $31,281. Your monthly loan payments will likely consume a significant portion of your starting salary. Precision Metal Working offers lower earnings at $28,598 but requires substantially less borrowing at $14,750, creating a more manageable debt-to-income ratio.
The 52% graduation rate signals retention challenges that increase your financial risk. If you struggle to complete the program, you'll face loan payments without the credential needed for higher-paying aviation maintenance roles. This makes your academic preparedness and commitment level critical factors in the investment decision.
You're a good financial fit for this school if you have clear career goals in aircraft maintenance, strong mechanical aptitude, and can minimize living expenses during the program. The aviation industry's growth in the Atlanta region supports job placement, but entry-level positions may not immediately justify the debt load.
Avoid this investment if you're uncertain about aviation careers or have other affordable pathways into mechanical trades. Community colleges often offer similar programs at lower costs, though potentially with less specialized aviation focus.
With 62% of students receiving financial aid, explore all grant and scholarship opportunities before borrowing. The school's for-profit status limits some federal aid options, making careful financial planning essential before enrollment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Aviation Institute of Maintenance-Atlanta worth the cost?
With graduates earning $48,191 ten years after enrollment and typical debt of $31,500, the school offers modest returns. The 52% graduation rate means nearly half of students don't complete their programs, adding financial risk.
What programs at Aviation Institute of Maintenance-Atlanta have the best ROI?
Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies graduates earn $39,099 annually, which is the highest-paying program at the school. Precision Metal Working graduates earn significantly less at $28,598, making it a weaker financial choice.
How much debt do Aviation Institute of Maintenance-Atlanta graduates typically have?
Graduates typically carry $31,500 in debt, which takes several years to pay off given the median earnings of $48,191. This debt load is manageable but requires steady employment in the aviation field.
What are the risks of attending Aviation Institute of Maintenance-Atlanta?
The biggest risk is the 52% graduation rate, meaning many students pay tuition but don't complete their programs. Students who do graduate face a competitive job market with starting salaries that may not immediately justify the $24,592 annual cost.