At $19,279/yr net price, Central Penn College graduates earn $45,370/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $11,370/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $19,279 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $77,116 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $45,370/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$11,370/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 6.8 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 38.9% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $23,194 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $14,591/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $17,974/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $14,769/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $20,097/yr |
| $110,001+ | $28,251/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Bachelor | $46,673 | $34,720 |
| Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services. | Associate | $36,560 | $14,529 |
The Risk Factor
38.9% of students at Central Penn College graduate within 6 years. Fewer than half of students complete their degree. If you don't graduate, the financial investment may not pay off.
Analysis
Central Penn College delivers weak financial returns that struggle to justify its costs. With median 10-year earnings of $45,370 against a net price of $19,279 annually, you're paying premium prices for below-average outcomes in Pennsylvania's job market.
Business Administration graduates earn $46,673 but carry $34,720 in debt, creating a concerning debt-to-income ratio. Allied Health programs offer better value at $36,560 earnings with just $14,529 in debt, making these your best financial bet at Central Penn. The healthcare focus aligns well with Pennsylvania's growing medical sector, particularly around Harrisburg.
The 38.9% graduation rate poses serious financial risk. With nearly two-thirds of students failing to complete their degrees, you face significant odds of accumulating debt without credentials. The 64.3% retention rate signals that many students realize the poor value proposition early.
Central Penn works financially only for students targeting specific Allied Health careers who need local training options. The college's location near Harrisburg provides access to state government and healthcare jobs, but you can likely find better returns at Pennsylvania's community colleges or state universities.
Avoid Central Penn if you're considering business programs or can access other options. The for-profit structure limits financial aid opportunities, with only 42.7% of students receiving aid. Merit scholarships are minimal compared to nonprofit competitors.
If you must attend, focus exclusively on Allied Health programs and maintain strong academic performance to finish quickly. Consider this school only as a last resort when geography absolutely restricts your choices and you need immediate entry into Pennsylvania's healthcare workforce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Central Penn College worth the cost?
Central Penn College graduates earn a median of $45,370 ten years after graduation, which is modest for a $19,279 annual net price. With a 39% graduation rate and $23,194 median debt, the return on investment is below average compared to other colleges.
What are the best paying programs at Central Penn College?
Business Administration and Management graduates from Central Penn College earn around $46,673 annually, making it the highest-paying program. Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services graduates earn significantly less at $36,560 per year.
How much debt do Central Penn College students graduate with?
Central Penn College graduates have a median debt of $23,194. Given that graduates earn around $45,370 ten years later, this debt load is manageable but represents a significant portion of early career earnings.
What is the graduation rate at Central Penn College?
Central Penn College has a 39% graduation rate, meaning most students who start there do not finish their degree. This low completion rate significantly impacts the school's overall value proposition and return on investment.