At $3,917/yr net price, Carroll Community College graduates earn $44,349/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $10,349/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $3,917 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $15,668 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $44,349/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$10,349/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 1.5 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 47.2% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $11,750 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $2,138/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $3,044/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $4,615/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $7,759/yr |
| $110,001+ | $7,603/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. | Associate | $59,288 | $16,197 |
| Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services. | Associate | $48,563 | |
| Business/Commerce, General. | Associate | $35,060 | |
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. | Associate | $27,048 | $10,998 |
The Risk Factor
47.2% of students at Carroll Community College graduate within 6 years. More than half of students finish, but the dropout rate is a real factor in whether this investment pays off.
Analysis
Carroll Community College delivers solid financial returns for career-focused students, but your program choice determines everything. The $3,917 annual net price makes this one of Maryland's most affordable higher education options, with low debt loads that keep your financial risk manageable.
Nursing stands out as the clear financial winner, generating $59,288 in median earnings that justify the slightly higher $16,197 debt load. Allied health programs also perform well at $48,563, giving you strong earning potential in Carroll County's healthcare-heavy job market. Business graduates earn a modest $35,060, which works given the low costs, but liberal arts majors face tough financial math with only $27,048 in median earnings.
The 47% graduation rate signals completion risk that could leave you with debt but no degree. Only 16% of students receive financial aid, suggesting most pay the low sticker price out of pocket. This works in your favor if you can afford the upfront costs and avoid borrowing.
You should choose Carroll if you want nursing or allied health training without the debt burden of four-year programs, or if you need affordable general education credits to transfer later. Skip this school if you're considering liberal arts or undecided about your major, as the low completion rate and weak earnings in general programs create poor financial outcomes. Business students can find better ROI elsewhere unless you specifically need the low cost and local connections this school provides.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Carroll Community College worth the money?
Carroll Community College offers strong value with a low net price of $3,917 per year and median debt of just $11,750. However, the 47% graduation rate means many students don't finish their programs, which significantly impacts ROI.
What are the best paying programs at Carroll Community College?
Nursing programs at Carroll Community College lead to the highest earnings at $59,288 annually, followed by allied health programs at $48,563. Business and liberal arts programs result in much lower earnings of $35,060 and $27,048 respectively.
How much debt do Carroll Community College graduates typically have?
Carroll Community College graduates have a median debt of $11,750, which is relatively low for higher education. The low cost and minimal debt make it a financially safer option compared to four-year institutions.
Do Carroll Community College graduates earn good salaries?
Carroll Community College graduates earn $44,349 on average 10 years after enrollment. This varies significantly by program, with nursing graduates earning much more than those in general studies or liberal arts.