Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $51,684/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$17,684/yr |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 100.0% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $28,500 |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Practical Nursing, Vocational Nursing and Nursing Assistants. | Certificate | $33,565 |
The Risk Factor
100.0% of students at California Career College graduate within 6 years. Most students who start here finish their degree.
Analysis
California Career College delivers mixed financial returns that depend heavily on your career goals and debt tolerance. The school's 100% graduation rate looks impressive, but the $51,684 median earnings after 10 years barely justify the $28,500 in typical debt for most students.
The nursing program presents the biggest concern. Graduates in Practical Nursing earn just $33,565 annually, creating a challenging debt-to-income ratio that will strain your budget for years. This program essentially guarantees financial stress given California's high cost of living and the relatively low pay for LPNs in the region.
You face significant financial risk here because this is a for-profit institution with limited program diversity. If nursing doesn't work out or you want to change fields, you have few alternatives without starting over elsewhere. The 33% of students receiving aid suggests limited financial support options.
This school makes financial sense only if you need the specific vocational training it offers and have exhausted community college options. Community colleges typically offer LPN programs at a fraction of the cost with similar job outcomes. California Career College works best for students who need the scheduling flexibility or personalized attention that larger institutions cannot provide.
Your best strategy is comparing this school's total costs against local community college nursing programs before enrolling. The premium you pay here needs to deliver clear advantages in job placement, clinical partnerships, or flexible scheduling to justify the higher debt load.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is California Career College worth the cost for nursing programs?
California Career College's nursing programs lead to median earnings of $33,565, which is relatively low compared to the $28,500 median debt. The return on investment is modest, though the 100% graduation rate indicates students complete their programs successfully.
What is the job outlook for California Career College graduates?
Graduates earn a median of $51,684 annually after 10 years, which is below the national average for college graduates. The school focuses on practical nursing and vocational training, which typically offer stable but lower-paying career paths.
How much student debt do California Career College students typically have?
The median student debt is $28,500, which represents a significant portion of early career earnings given that nursing program graduates start around $33,565. Students should carefully consider loan terms and payment options.
Does California Career College have good graduation rates compared to other career schools?
California Career College reports a 100% graduation rate, which is unusually high for career colleges. However, this metric alone doesn't guarantee strong employment outcomes or financial returns on the education investment.