Student Outcomes
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 47.7%
- Median Earnings (10 years after entry)
- $42,162
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $11,000
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 18:1
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 49.7%
- Estimated Monthly Loan Payment
- $117/mo
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 | $57,576 | $19,391 |
| Electromechanical Instrumentation and Maintenance Technologies/Technicians. | Associate | $56,641 | |
| Ground Transportation. | Certificate | $48,563 | $10,952 |
| Industrial Production Technologies/Technicians. | Certificate | $46,087 | |
| Precision Metal Working. | Certificate | $44,468 | $5,500 |
| Precision Metal Working. | Associate | $44,021 | |
| Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies. | Certificate | $39,286 | $6,500 |
| Criminal Justice and Corrections. | Associate | $35,060 | |
| Dental Support Services and Allied Professions. | Associate | $35,060 | |
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. | Associate | $33,370 | $9,425 |
| Accounting and Related Services. | Associate | $30,228 | |
| Dental Support Services and Allied Professions. | Certificate | $27,669 | |
| Health and Medical Administrative Services. | Associate | $26,121 | |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Associate | $24,421 | |
| Film/Video and Photographic Arts. | Associate | $20,140 |
Outcomes Overview
Graduates typically earn $42,162 ten years after leaving Central Lakes College-Brainerd, while carrying a median debt of just $11,000. This creates a favorable debt-to-earnings ratio of 26%, well below the concerning 40% threshold that financial experts warn against. Monthly loan payments of $117 represent only 3.3% of typical graduate income, making repayment manageable. The college's strong ties to Minnesota's healthcare, manufacturing, and skilled trades sectors help explain the impressive 96.5% employment rate. Many graduates enter nursing, welding, automotive technology, and business fields where community college credentials translate directly into stable careers. With low debt burdens and solid earning potential in practical fields, Central Lakes College offers a strong return on investment.