At $11,103/yr net price, Compton College graduates earn $34,181/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $181/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $11,103 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $44,412 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $34,181/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$181/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 245.4 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 31.6% |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $11,072/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $10,652/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $11,087/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $15,334/yr |
The Risk Factor
31.6% of students at Compton 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
Compton College delivers mixed financial returns that depend heavily on your program choice and transfer plans. With a net price of $11,103 annually and median earnings of $34,181 ten years after enrollment, you face a moderate debt-to-income ratio if you complete your program and enter the workforce immediately.
The 31.6% graduation rate creates significant financial risk. Nearly 7 out of 10 students leave without completing their programs, often carrying debt with no credential to show for it. Your chances of seeing positive returns improve dramatically if you use Compton as a transfer pathway to a four-year university, where completion rates typically run higher.
Healthcare programs like nursing and medical assisting offer the strongest earning potential in this region's job market. Business and computer information systems also provide decent returns given the proximity to Los Angeles employment opportunities. Liberal arts and general education programs work best as stepping stones to transfer, not terminal degrees.
The low percentage of students receiving financial aid suggests limited institutional grant money. Most students pay close to the full net price, making completion even more critical for positive returns. Community college students in California benefit from generous state aid programs, so maximize Cal Grant and Board of Governors fee waivers if eligible.
Compton works financially for students who complete career-focused programs in two years or use it as an affordable path to transfer to a CSU or UC campus. If you struggle with college-level coursework or lack clear career goals, the low completion rate makes this a risky investment. Consider your academic preparedness honestly before enrolling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Compton College worth the money?
Compton College offers a low net price at $11,103 per year, but graduates earn only $34,181 annually after 10 years. The 31.6% graduation rate means most students don't complete their programs, making the investment risky for many.
What is the ROI for Compton College graduates?
The return on investment is limited, with graduates earning $34,181 ten years after enrollment. This puts Compton College below average for post-secondary earnings, though the low cost helps offset some financial risk.
Which Compton College programs have the best job prospects?
Career-focused programs in healthcare, skilled trades, and business typically offer better employment outcomes than general education tracks. Students should research specific program completion rates and local job demand before enrolling.
How much debt do Compton College students typically have?
As a community college with a net price of $11,103 annually, most students graduate with minimal debt compared to four-year institutions. However, the low graduation rate means many students may accumulate costs without completing their degree.