At $5,240/yr net price, Community College of Rhode Island graduates earn $42,659/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $8,659/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $5,240 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $20,960 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $42,659/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$8,659/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 2.4 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 25.0% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $10,920 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $4,873/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $5,379/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $5,716/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $5,625/yr |
| $110,001+ | $6,659/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 | $59,193 | $15,750 |
| Dental Support Services and Allied Professions. | Associate | $55,151 | $21,000 |
| Clinical/Medical Laboratory Science/Research and Allied Professions. | Associate | $52,941 | |
| Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions. | Associate | $52,733 | $11,611 |
| Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services. | Associate | $39,523 | $11,000 |
| Health and Medical Administrative Services. | Certificate | $33,993 | |
| Business/Commerce, General. | Associate | $33,565 | |
| Health and Medical Administrative Services. | Associate | $32,925 | |
| Legal Support Services. | Associate | $32,467 | |
| Dental Support Services and Allied Professions. | Certificate | $32,284 |
The Risk Factor
25.0% of students at Community College of Rhode Island 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
Community College of Rhode Island delivers solid financial returns if you pick the right program, but the low 25% graduation rate creates significant risk of ending up with debt and no credential.
Your best financial bets are the healthcare programs. Nursing graduates earn $59,193 annually with manageable debt at $15,750. Dental support services pays $55,151, though debt runs higher at $21,000. Clinical lab science and allied health diagnostic programs both clear $52,000 in median earnings. These healthcare tracks align well with Rhode Island's hospital systems and aging population, creating steady local demand.
The weaker choice is allied health and medical assisting services, where graduates earn just $39,523 while still carrying $11,000 in debt. This barely exceeds what you might earn without a degree in many Rhode Island markets.
Your biggest financial risk is not finishing. With three out of four students failing to graduate, you could easily accumulate debt without earning a marketable credential. The low completion rate suggests either inadequate academic preparation among incoming students or insufficient support systems.
CCRI works financially for career changers seeking specific healthcare skills and high school graduates who need affordable preparation for four-year transfer. The $5,240 annual net price makes it accessible for most Rhode Island families. However, if you struggle with self-direction or need extensive academic support, consider whether you can realistically join the 25% who actually finish.
Financial aid reaches 43% of students, reflecting the school's role serving working-class Rhode Islanders. Focus on completing your program quickly to minimize total costs and maximize your return on this low-cost investment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Community College of Rhode Island worth the money?
Community College of Rhode Island offers solid value with a low net price of $5,240 per year and modest debt levels around $10,920. However, the 25% graduation rate is concerning and could limit your return on investment if you don't complete your program.
What are the highest paying programs at Community College of Rhode Island?
Nursing programs at Community College of Rhode Island lead to the highest earnings, with graduates earning around $59,193 annually. Dental support services and medical laboratory programs also pay well, with salaries in the $52,000-$55,000 range.
How much debt do Community College of Rhode Island graduates have?
Community College of Rhode Island graduates typically leave with $10,920 in debt, which is manageable compared to four-year schools. The low tuition costs help keep borrowing minimal for most students.
Do Community College of Rhode Island graduates get good jobs?
Community College of Rhode Island graduates earn a median of $42,659 ten years after enrollment, which is reasonable for a two-year degree. Healthcare and allied health programs offer the best job prospects and starting salaries.