Student Outcomes
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 33.5%
- Median Earnings (10 years after entry)
- $38,654
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $9,500
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 13:1
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 29.9%
- Estimated Monthly Loan Payment
- $101/mo
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Precision Metal Working. | Associate | $72,899 | |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Associate | $53,775 | |
| Dental Support Services and Allied Professions. | Associate | $51,273 | |
| Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions. | Associate | $41,406 | |
| Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences. | Associate | $39,927 | |
| Criminal Justice and Corrections. | Certificate | $39,648 | |
| Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services. | Associate | $38,289 | |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Associate | $34,704 | |
| Health and Medical Administrative Services. | Associate | $27,222 | |
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. | Associate | $22,874 | $8,000 |
| Cosmetology and Related Personal Grooming Services. | Certificate | $18,087 |
Outcomes Overview
Cape Fear graduates enter the workforce with modest debt loads that make financial sense. The median debt of $9,500 creates monthly payments of just $101, representing only 3.2% of typical graduate income. This debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.25 ranks among the best for community colleges nationwide. The college's strong ties to Wilmington's healthcare systems and growing film industry help explain the impressive 94.9% employment rate. Many graduates work as medical assistants, film technicians, and skilled trades workers in the region's expanding economy. Ten years out, median earnings of $38,654 provide comfortable living in coastal North Carolina's affordable market. Cape Fear delivers a strong return on investment for career-focused students.