Student Outcomes
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 37.7%
- Median Earnings (10 years after entry)
- $36,324
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $12,000
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 13:1
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 29.6%
- Estimated Monthly Loan Payment
- $127/mo
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 | $49,855 | $15,603 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Associate | $26,353 | |
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. | Associate | $20,596 | $11,000 |
| Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies. | Associate | $18,771 |
Outcomes Overview
Graduates earn a median of $36,324 within ten years, while carrying just $12,000 in debt. Monthly loan payments of $127 consume roughly 4% of typical graduate income, well below the recommended 10% threshold. The 88% employment rate reflects strong workforce connections in western North Carolina's tourism and healthcare sectors. Many Bears transfer to four-year universities or enter skilled trades like automotive technology and nursing programs the college emphasizes. The debt-to-income ratio of 33% sits comfortably below the 40% danger zone for community college graduates. Combined with in-state tuition under $3,000, Blue Ridge delivers a strong return on investment for students seeking career training or transfer preparation.