At $4,667/yr net price, De Anza College graduates earn $56,596/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $22,596/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $4,667 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $18,668 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $56,596/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$22,596/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 0.8 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 67.8% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $5,625 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $3,046/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $4,354/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $6,804/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $9,628/yr |
| $110,001+ | $10,644/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 | $95,739 |
The Risk Factor
67.8% of students at De Anza College graduate within 6 years. A significant share of students finish, but roughly 32% do not complete their degree.
Analysis
De Anza College delivers strong financial returns for a community college, with graduates earning $56,596 annually while carrying minimal debt of $5,625. The school's location in Silicon Valley's heart means you benefit from one of the country's highest-paying job markets immediately after graduation.
The registered nursing program stands out as the clear financial winner, generating $95,739 in median earnings that rivals many four-year degree programs. This program alone justifies attendance if you can secure admission to this competitive track. Other programs show more modest returns, though the low debt burden keeps your financial risk minimal across all majors.
Your biggest risk is the 67.8% graduation rate, which means one in three students don't complete their programs. The school's transfer-heavy culture can work against you financially if you rack up credits without completing a degree or certificate. Only 18% of students receive financial aid, suggesting most families pay the $4,667 annual cost out of pocket.
De Anza makes financial sense if you plan to work locally after graduation, transfer to a UC school, or enter the nursing program. The Bay Area's cost of living will eat into your earnings, but local employers recognize the school's reputation. You should look elsewhere if you need significant financial aid or want to leave California after graduation, since the school's value proposition depends heavily on regional job market access.
Focus on completing your program quickly to maximize returns. The low sticker price becomes expensive if you extend your stay beyond two years without clear transfer or career goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is De Anza College worth the cost compared to other schools?
De Anza College offers strong value with a low net price of $4,667 per year and graduates earning $56,596 annually after 10 years. The minimal debt load of $5,625 makes it a financially safe choice, though earnings vary significantly by program.
What are the best paying programs at De Anza College?
Nursing programs at De Anza College lead to the highest earnings, with graduates making around $95,739 annually. These healthcare programs justify the investment far better than most other majors at the school.
How much debt do De Anza College students typically graduate with?
De Anza College students graduate with very low debt, with a median of just $5,625. This community college structure keeps costs down and reduces financial risk for students.
Does De Anza College have good graduation rates for the money?
De Anza College has a 67.8% graduation rate, which is reasonable for a community college. Combined with low costs and minimal debt, students face less financial risk even if they don't complete their program.