At $4,989/yr net price, Eastern Wyoming College graduates earn $37,121/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $3,121/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $4,989 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $19,956 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $37,121/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$3,121/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 6.4 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 50.7% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $7,000 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $2,453/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $5,436/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $6,995/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $9,489/yr |
| $110,001+ | $12,050/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Precision Metal Working. | Associate | $38,313 | |
| Veterinary/Animal Health Technologies/Technicians. | Associate | $28,055 | |
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. | Associate | $17,282 | |
| Precision Metal Working. | Certificate | $16,169 | |
| Cosmetology and Related Personal Grooming Services. | Associate | $14,627 |
The Risk Factor
50.7% of students at Eastern Wyoming 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
Eastern Wyoming College delivers solid financial value for a two-year institution, with a low net price of $4,989 annually and manageable debt loads averaging just $7,000. Your return depends heavily on which program you choose.
Precision Metal Working stands out as the clear winner, generating median earnings of $38,313 that actually exceed the school's overall graduate average. This program taps into Wyoming's energy and manufacturing sectors where skilled trades command premium wages. Veterinary and Animal Health Technologies also performs reasonably well in this rural region where livestock and ranching create steady demand.
Liberal Arts transfers and Cosmetology programs show weaker returns. Liberal Arts graduates earn just $17,282, which barely covers loan payments even with the school's low debt levels. Cosmetology earnings of $14,627 make financial sense only if you plan to open your own business or work in higher-paying urban markets outside Wyoming.
The biggest risk here is the 50.7% graduation rate. Nearly half of students leave without completing their programs, often carrying debt with no credential to show for it. Wyoming's limited job market also means you may need to relocate after graduation to maximize your earning potential.
This school works best for students pursuing specific vocational training, particularly in trades that serve Wyoming's resource-based economy. The low sticker price makes it a reasonable choice for exploring career options or completing prerequisites before transferring. Skip Eastern Wyoming if you need extensive student services, diverse program options, or prefer staying in a more economically diverse region after graduation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Eastern Wyoming College worth the cost?
Eastern Wyoming College offers good value with a low net price of $5,000 per year and minimal debt of $7,000. However, the 51% graduation rate and $37,000 median earnings suggest limited returns for many students.
What are the best paying programs at Eastern Wyoming College?
Precision Metal Working graduates earn $38,000 annually, making it the highest-paying program at Eastern Wyoming College. Veterinary/Animal Health Technology pays $28,000, while Liberal Arts graduates earn only $17,000.
How much debt do Eastern Wyoming College graduates have?
Eastern Wyoming College graduates have a median debt of $7,000, which is relatively low compared to most colleges. The low debt load helps offset the modest earning potential for many programs.
What is the graduation rate at Eastern Wyoming College?
Eastern Wyoming College has a 51% graduation rate, meaning nearly half of students don't complete their programs. This high dropout rate increases the risk of leaving with debt but no credential.