At $8,626/yr net price, Coalinga College graduates earn $37,633/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $3,633/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $8,626 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $34,504 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $37,633/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$3,633/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 9.5 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 41.9% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $6,750 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $7,041/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $9,302/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $9,725/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $12,202/yr |
| $110,001+ | $15,869/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 | $80,858 | |
| Public Health. | Associate | $61,814 | |
| Psychology, General. | Certificate | $58,673 | |
| Human Development, Family Studies, and Related Services. | Certificate | $22,087 | |
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. | Associate | $20,140 | $5,700 |
The Risk Factor
41.9% of students at Coalinga 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
Coalinga College delivers strong returns for students who pick the right programs, but the overall financial picture shows significant risk. The nursing program stands out with graduates earning $80,858 annually, making it one of the best community college nursing investments in California. Public health and psychology graduates also command solid salaries above $58,000.
The danger lies in program choice. Liberal arts graduates earn just $20,140 ten years out, barely above minimum wage despite carrying $5,700 in debt. Human development majors fare even worse at $22,087 annually. These programs essentially guarantee financial struggle after graduation.
The 42% graduation rate creates additional risk. More than half of students never complete their programs, meaning they carry debt without credentials. At $8,626 annually, Coalinga costs less than many community colleges, but the low completion rate undermines this advantage.
Financial aid coverage appears limited with only 22% of students receiving assistance. This suggests most students pay close to full price, making program selection even more critical for your return on investment.
Coalinga works financially if you target healthcare programs, particularly nursing. The rural location may actually benefit nursing graduates since healthcare jobs exist throughout California's Central Valley. Avoid this school if you plan to study liberal arts or social services. The combination of low earnings and weak job prospects in rural Coalinga makes these programs financially dangerous.
Your best strategy involves completing prerequisites here cheaply, then transferring to a four-year school for liberal arts, or staying for the nursing program if you can gain admission to this competitive track.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Coalinga College worth the cost?
Coalinga College offers decent value for community college students, with a low net price of $8,626 per year and minimal debt averaging $6,750. However, the 42% graduation rate is concerning, and 10-year earnings of $37,633 are below average for college graduates.
What are the highest paying programs at Coalinga College?
Nursing programs at Coalinga College provide the best ROI, with graduates earning around $80,858 annually. Public health graduates earn $61,814, while liberal arts graduates average just $20,140, making program choice critical for financial outcomes.
How much debt do Coalinga College students typically graduate with?
Coalinga College graduates carry relatively low debt loads, with a median of $6,750. This manageable debt level helps offset the lower earnings potential compared to four-year institutions.
Does Coalinga College have good job placement rates?
With only 42% of students completing their programs, Coalinga College's completion rate raises questions about student success. The school's career-focused programs like nursing show better outcomes, but overall job placement data suggests mixed results.