At $6,147/yr net price, Dodge City Community College graduates earn $45,427/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $11,427/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $6,147 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $24,588 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $45,427/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$11,427/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 2.2 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 31.0% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $8,800 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $3,967/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $4,690/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $6,163/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $9,130/yr |
| $110,001+ | $8,908/yr |
The Risk Factor
31.0% of students at Dodge City Community 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
Dodge City Community College delivers solid financial returns despite its low graduation rate. With a net price of just over $6,000 annually and median debt under $9,000, you face minimal financial risk even if you don't complete your program.
The school's strongest ROI comes from its healthcare and technical programs, which align well with southwestern Kansas's agricultural and energy sectors. Nursing, welding, and agricultural technology graduates find immediate employment in the region's hospitals, manufacturing plants, and farming operations. These programs typically lead to starting salaries that justify the modest investment.
Liberal arts transfers present mixed returns. If you plan to transfer to a four-year university, Dodge City's low costs make it an effective stepping stone. However, the 31% graduation rate suggests many students struggle to complete even two-year programs, making careful program selection critical.
You should consider this school if you want affordable career training in high-demand local fields or need inexpensive general education credits before transferring. The low debt burden means financial mistakes won't follow you for decades.
Avoid Dodge City if you need extensive student support services or prefer urban job markets. The rural location limits internship opportunities and networking, though it keeps costs low.
With only 28% of students receiving financial aid, most pay the full net price. Merit scholarships exist but remain limited. Your best cost strategy involves completing programs quickly and leveraging the school's industry connections for immediate employment in the local market.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Dodge City Community College worth the money?
With a net price of $6,147 per year and graduates earning $45,427 annually after 10 years, Dodge City Community College offers a reasonable return on investment for a two-year school. The low debt burden of $8,800 median helps offset the modest earnings potential.
What is the graduation rate at Dodge City Community College?
Dodge City Community College has a 31% graduation rate, which is below average for community colleges. This means about 7 in 10 students who start here don't complete their programs.
How much debt do Dodge City Community College graduates have?
Graduates of Dodge City Community College carry a median debt of $8,800, which is manageable compared to four-year schools. The relatively low cost keeps student loan burdens light for those who complete their programs.
What programs at Dodge City Community College have the best job prospects?
Healthcare and skilled trade programs typically offer the strongest career outcomes at community colleges like Dodge City Community College. These fields often provide direct pathways to employment with wages above the school's average graduate earnings.