At $26,254/yr net price, Centura College-Chesapeake graduates earn $25,930/yr within 10 years of enrollment.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $26,254 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $105,016 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $25,930/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | $-8,070/yr |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 66.7% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $14,750 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $25,225/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $24,800/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $27,016/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $31,162/yr |
| $110,001+ | $32,162/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Bachelor | $30,228 | |
| Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management. | Associate | $23,803 | |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Associate | $22,094 | $23,000 |
| Health and Medical Administrative Services. | Certificate | $21,679 | $9,500 |
| Health and Medical Administrative Services. | Associate | $21,019 | $22,000 |
| Somatic Bodywork and Related Therapeutic Services. | Associate | $17,916 | $21,830 |
| Somatic Bodywork and Related Therapeutic Services. | Certificate | $15,922 | $7,521 |
| Legal Support Services. | Associate | $14,935 |
The Risk Factor
66.7% of students at Centura College-Chesapeake graduate within 6 years. A significant share of students finish, but roughly 33% do not complete their degree.
Analysis
Centura College-Chesapeake delivers weak financial returns that barely justify its $26,254 annual cost. With median earnings of just $25,930 ten years after graduation, you'll likely struggle to recover your investment in any reasonable timeframe.
The earnings data reveals stark differences between programs. Business Administration graduates earn $30,228, making it the only program that approaches financial viability. Computer/Information Technology Administration pays $23,803, while Health and Medical Administrative Services programs generate even lower returns at around $21,000 annually. These healthcare administration programs particularly concern given the regional job market's limited upward mobility in administrative roles.
Your debt burden varies dramatically by program. Health and Medical Administrative Services graduates carry debt loads ranging from $9,500 to $22,000 for similar earning outcomes. The $23,000 debt load for Business Administration graduates earning $22,094 creates an especially poor debt-to-income ratio.
The 66.7% graduation rate adds another layer of financial risk. You face a one-in-three chance of leaving without a degree while still owing money. The 84% financial aid participation rate reflects the student body's financial constraints but doesn't improve the fundamental return problem.
This school makes financial sense only if you're pursuing Business Administration and can complete the program efficiently. The Hampton Roads region offers some business opportunities, but the earning potential remains limited. If you're considering healthcare administration or IT programs, community colleges in the area offer similar training at much lower costs with comparable job prospects. Your money works harder elsewhere unless you have very specific career goals that require this exact credential mix.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Centura College-Chesapeake worth the cost?
The numbers suggest poor value, with graduates earning $25,930 ten years after enrollment while the annual cost is $26,254. Most students would earn less than what they pay for just one year of school.
What is the return on investment for Centura College-Chesapeake graduates?
The ROI is negative for most programs, as annual tuition exceeds typical graduate earnings. Only the Business Administration program shows earnings above $30,000, while others fall well below the cost of attendance.
How much debt do Centura College-Chesapeake students typically graduate with?
The median debt is $14,750, which is manageable compared to many schools. However, with graduate earnings around $26,000, loan payments could still strain budgets for most career paths offered.
Which programs at Centura College-Chesapeake have the best job prospects?
Business Administration shows the highest earnings at around $30,000, though this still barely exceeds annual tuition costs. Health administration and IT programs typically lead to lower salaries in the low $20,000 range.