At $6,769/yr net price, East Arkansas Community College graduates earn $28,471/yr within 10 years of enrollment.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $6,769 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $27,076 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $28,471/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | $-5,529/yr |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 47.1% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $6,000 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $6,449/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $6,819/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $7,018/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $12,528/yr |
| $110,001+ | $8,945/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 | $57,318 | $7,100 |
| Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions. | Associate | $31,133 | |
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. | Associate | $20,687 |
The Risk Factor
47.1% of students at East Arkansas Community 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
East Arkansas Community College delivers strong returns for nursing students but weak outcomes for most other programs. The nursing program stands out with graduates earning $57,318 annually against just $7,100 in debt, creating one of the best ROI scenarios you'll find at any community college.
Your program choice makes or breaks your financial outcome here. Allied health graduates earn $31,133, which provides decent returns given the low debt load. Liberal arts students face a harsh reality with median earnings of just $20,687, barely above poverty wages even with minimal debt.
The 47% graduation rate creates significant risk if you're not academically prepared. Nearly half of students leave without credentials, often carrying debt with no degree to show for it. The regional job market in eastern Arkansas limits opportunities for graduates outside healthcare fields.
This school works financially if you're pursuing nursing or allied health and can complete your program. The low net price of $6,769 keeps debt manageable even if you need multiple years to graduate. Only 27% of students receive financial aid, suggesting either limited need-based assistance or that most students qualify for minimal aid.
Skip East Arkansas Community College if you're considering liberal arts or undecided about your major. The weak regional economy means general studies graduates struggle to find well-paying work. You're better served at a four-year university or a community college in a stronger job market if nursing isn't your target.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is East Arkansas Community College worth the cost?
At $6,769 per year with graduates earning $28,471 after 10 years, East Arkansas Community College offers decent value for a two-year degree. The low debt load of $6,000 makes it financially manageable, though earnings potential varies significantly by program.
What are the best paying programs at East Arkansas Community College?
Nursing programs at East Arkansas Community College offer the strongest ROI, with graduates earning around $57,318 annually. Allied health programs pay moderately well at $31,133, while liberal arts graduates earn just $20,687.
How much debt will I have after East Arkansas Community College?
Most East Arkansas Community College graduates leave with around $6,000 in debt, which is manageable compared to four-year schools. The low net price of $6,769 per year helps keep borrowing minimal.
What is the graduation rate at East Arkansas Community College?
East Arkansas Community College has a 47% graduation rate, which is typical for community colleges but means over half of students don't complete their programs. Consider your commitment level and support needs before enrolling.