Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $17,866 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $71,464 |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 62.7% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $8,708 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $18,093/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $17,035/yr |
The Risk Factor
62.7% of students at Caris College graduate within 6 years. A significant share of students finish, but roughly 37% do not complete their degree.
Analysis
Caris College delivers weak financial returns that make it a risky investment for most students. The $17,866 annual net price is steep for a two-year program, particularly at a for-profit institution where outcomes typically lag behind community colleges.
The 62.70% graduation rate signals problems with program completion, meaning nearly four in ten students leave without a credential after paying substantial tuition. This dropout risk multiplies the effective cost for those who do finish, since they're essentially subsidizing classmates who don't complete their programs.
The $8,708 median debt load appears manageable compared to four-year institutions, but you're accumulating this debt for an associate degree that may not command premium wages in the Indianapolis metro area. Local community colleges offer similar programs at significantly lower costs with comparable or better job placement rates.
This school works financially only if you're pursuing a specific healthcare or technical program with strong local employer partnerships and you've exhausted community college options. Even then, verify that employers in your target field recognize Caris credentials over those from nearby public institutions.
Financial aid covers most students, but for-profit colleges often maximize federal loan disbursements rather than offering genuine institutional scholarships. Scrutinize any aid package carefully and compare total program costs against local alternatives before enrolling.
Skip Caris if you have access to Indiana's community college system or can qualify for four-year programs. The premium you pay here rarely translates to better career outcomes, making it a poor choice for most students seeking the strongest return on their education investment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Caris College worth the cost?
Caris College's low net price of $17,866 and median debt of just $8,708 make it financially accessible compared to most colleges. However, the 62% graduation rate means over one-third of students don't finish their degree, which significantly impacts return on investment.
What is the ROI of Caris College?
Caris College offers a relatively low-cost education with minimal debt burden for graduates. The school's value depends heavily on completing your degree, as the graduation rate sits below the national average at 63%.
How much debt do Caris College graduates have?
Caris College graduates carry a median debt of $8,708, which is well below the national average. This low debt load reduces financial risk and makes the degree more affordable for most students.
What programs at Caris College have the best job prospects?
Caris College focuses primarily on healthcare programs, which typically offer strong job placement in the growing medical field. The school's specialized training programs are designed to meet local healthcare workforce needs in the Indiana region.