At $6,075/yr net price, Butler County Community College graduates earn $38,891/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $4,891/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $6,075 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $24,300 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $38,891/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$4,891/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 5 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 31.2% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $10,020 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $2,746/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $3,893/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $6,555/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $10,146/yr |
| $110,001+ | $10,967/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. | Certificate | $56,641 | |
| Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services. | Certificate | $34,704 | |
| Business/Commerce, General. | Certificate | $28,598 | |
| Health and Medical Administrative Services. | Certificate | $27,874 | |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Certificate | $26,933 | |
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. | Certificate | $18,309 | |
| Computer Software and Media Applications. | Certificate | $17,282 |
The Risk Factor
31.2% of students at Butler County Community 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
Butler County Community College delivers solid financial returns for the right programs, but your major choice makes or breaks the investment. At $6,075 per year, the school keeps costs reasonable while offering clear pathways to middle-class earnings in western Pennsylvania's healthcare-heavy job market.
The nursing program stands out as the clear financial winner, with graduates earning $56,641 annually. This program alone justifies the college's existence for career-focused students willing to complete the requirements. Allied health programs also perform well at $34,704, reflecting strong regional demand for healthcare workers.
Business programs tell a different story. General business graduates earn just $28,598, barely above the regional average for workers without degrees. Business administration fares even worse at $26,933, making these programs financially questionable unless you plan to transfer to a four-year school.
The 31% graduation rate presents the biggest financial risk. Nearly seven out of ten students leave without completing their programs, often carrying debt with no credential to show for it. The median debt of $10,020 stays manageable, but only if you actually graduate.
This school works best for students committed to healthcare careers or using it as an affordable transfer pathway. If you can handle the nursing program's demands, the ROI is excellent. For other students, the low completion rates and weak earnings in non-healthcare programs make this a risky choice. Consider other options unless you have a clear plan for healthcare careers or four-year transfer.
Financial aid reaches just 35% of students, so expect to pay close to the full price for most families.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Butler County Community College worth the money?
Butler County Community College offers good value at $6,075 per year with relatively low debt of $10,020. However, the 31% graduation rate means many students don't finish, and average earnings of $38,891 after 10 years are modest outside of nursing programs.
What are the best paying programs at Butler County Community College?
Nursing programs at Butler County Community College lead to the highest earnings at $56,641 annually. Allied health programs pay $34,704, while business programs typically result in lower salaries around $27,000-$29,000.
How much debt do Butler County Community College graduates have?
Butler County Community College graduates carry a median debt of $10,020, which is manageable compared to four-year schools. The low annual cost of $6,075 helps keep borrowing minimal for most students.
What is the graduation rate at Butler County Community College?
Only 31% of students graduate from Butler County Community College within the standard timeframe. This low completion rate means many students leave without credentials, making program selection and academic support particularly important.