At $12,829/yr net price, Central Lakes College-Brainerd graduates earn $42,162/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $8,162/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $12,829 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $51,316 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $42,162/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$8,162/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 6.3 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 47.7% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $11,000 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $10,479/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $10,015/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $12,719/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $15,228/yr |
| $110,001+ | $17,192/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 | $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 |
The Risk Factor
47.7% of students at Central Lakes College-Brainerd 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
Central Lakes College-Brainerd offers solid financial returns for a two-year college, with median earnings of $42,162 after graduation and relatively low debt loads. The nursing program stands out as the clear financial winner, delivering $57,576 in median earnings despite higher debt of $19,391. The math still works strongly in your favor given nursing's job security in Minnesota's healthcare market.
The technical programs provide excellent value with lower debt burdens. Ground Transportation graduates earn $48,563 with just $10,952 in debt, while Precision Metal Working leads to $44,468 in earnings with only $5,500 in debt. These programs align well with regional demand from manufacturing and logistics employers throughout central Minnesota.
The 47% graduation rate presents the biggest financial risk. Nearly half of students leave without completing their programs, potentially carrying debt without the credentials needed for higher-paying jobs. This makes program selection critical since you need to finish to see returns.
The school works best financially if you're targeting healthcare or skilled trades careers and can commit to completion. With only 14.55% of students receiving aid, most families pay close to the full $12,829 net price, making this school most suitable for those who can afford the upfront costs or qualify for federal aid programs.
Skip Central Lakes if you're uncertain about your career direction or considering programs outside their strongest areas. The completion rate suggests you need clear motivation and career focus to succeed here financially.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Central Lakes College-Brainerd worth the cost?
Central Lakes College-Brainerd offers decent value with a net price of $12,829 and median debt of just $11,000. However, the 48% graduation rate is concerning, and 10-year earnings of $42,162 are below average for college graduates.
What are the highest paying programs at Central Lakes College-Brainerd?
Nursing programs at Central Lakes College-Brainerd lead earnings at $57,576 after 10 years, followed by electromechanical instrumentation at $56,641. These technical programs significantly outperform the school's overall average of $42,162.
How much debt do Central Lakes College-Brainerd graduates have?
Central Lakes College-Brainerd graduates have a median debt of $11,000, which is relatively low compared to most colleges. This manageable debt load helps offset the school's below-average earning outcomes.
What is the graduation rate at Central Lakes College-Brainerd?
Only 48% of students graduate from Central Lakes College-Brainerd. This low completion rate means many students leave with debt but no degree, making the investment risky despite the affordable tuition.