At $5,919/yr net price, Belmont College graduates earn $35,329/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $1,329/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $5,919 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $23,676 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $35,329/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$1,329/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 17.8 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 38.5% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $8,747 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $4,732/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $5,324/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $6,493/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $8,778/yr |
| $110,001+ | $7,401/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Associate | $49,136 | $13,038 |
| Civil Engineering Technologies/Technicians. | Associate | $37,208 | |
| Electrical Engineering Technologies/Technicians. | Associate | $36,134 | |
| Precision Metal Working. | Associate | $26,353 | |
| Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management. | Associate | $25,967 | |
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. | Associate | $22,420 | |
| Accounting and Related Services. | Associate | $20,140 | |
| Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services. | Associate | $19,045 |
The Risk Factor
38.5% of students at Belmont 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
Belmont College delivers solid financial returns for a community college, particularly if you choose the right program. The nursing program stands out as the clear winner, producing graduates who earn $49,136 annually against modest debt of $13,038. This puts nursing graduates well above the school's overall median of $35,329 and creates a strong payback scenario.
The engineering technology tracks also perform well, with civil and electrical programs both generating mid-to-upper $30,000 earnings ranges. These technical programs align with regional manufacturing and infrastructure needs in eastern Ohio, giving graduates access to stable employment opportunities.
You should avoid the computer technology and precision metalworking programs, which produce earnings below $27,000 despite similar time investments. The low graduation rate of 38.5% signals retention challenges, though this partly reflects the school's open-access mission serving many part-time and working students.
The financial risk profile remains manageable with median debt under $9,000 and an annual net price of $5,919. Only 31% of students receive financial aid, suggesting many pay out-of-pocket or rely on employer sponsorship. This makes Belmont particularly attractive for working adults seeking specific technical credentials without accumulating significant debt.
Belmont works best for career-focused students targeting nursing or engineering technology fields who want practical training at low cost. You should look elsewhere if you need extensive student support services or plan to transfer to a four-year program, as the low graduation rate suggests limited academic scaffolding for students requiring additional guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Belmont College worth the cost?
Belmont College offers solid value with a low net price of $5,919 annually and minimal debt load averaging $8,747. However, the 38.5% graduation rate is concerning, and median earnings of $35,329 after 10 years are below average for college graduates.
What are the best paying programs at Belmont College?
Nursing programs at Belmont College provide the strongest ROI, with graduates earning around $49,136 annually. Engineering technology programs also pay well, with civil engineering techs averaging $37,208 and electrical engineering techs earning $36,134.
How much debt do Belmont College students typically graduate with?
Belmont College students graduate with relatively low debt, with a median of $8,747. This manageable debt load, combined with the school's affordable tuition, reduces financial risk for graduates.
Does Belmont College have a good graduation rate?
Belmont College's 38.5% graduation rate is below national averages and represents a significant completion risk. Many students do not finish their programs, which impacts the overall value proposition despite the school's low costs.