At $2,801/yr net price, Frederick Community College graduates earn $46,449/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $12,449/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $2,801 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $11,204 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $46,449/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$12,449/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 0.9 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 35.2% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $8,150 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $443/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $1,603/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $4,062/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $6,640/yr |
| $110,001+ | $8,022/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 | $61,516 | $8,500 |
| Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions. | Associate | $47,260 | |
| Business/Commerce, General. | Associate | $30,771 | $5,380 |
| Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services. | Associate | $30,409 | |
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. | Associate | $23,842 | $6,109 |
The Risk Factor
35.2% of students at Frederick 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
Frederick Community College delivers solid financial returns for career-focused programs but weak outcomes for general studies. At $2,801 per year, the school costs less than most alternatives, making even modest earnings gains worthwhile.
Nursing stands out as the clear winner, with graduates earning $61,516 annually against just $8,500 in debt. Allied health diagnostic programs also perform well at $47,260 in median earnings. These healthcare tracks tap into Maryland's strong medical sector and aging population demands.
Business graduates face tougher prospects, earning $30,771 with $5,380 in debt. The return exists but remains modest given the time investment. Liberal arts produces the weakest outcomes at $23,842 in earnings, barely justifying the $6,109 debt load.
The 35% graduation rate creates significant risk. You face real chances of accumulating debt without completing your program. Only 18% of students receive financial aid, suggesting limited scholarship opportunities beyond standard federal programs.
This school works best for career changers targeting healthcare fields or current workers seeking specific certifications. The nursing program offers strong value for those who can handle the coursework. If you need general education credits before transferring to a four-year school, the low cost makes Frederick reasonable despite weak liberal arts outcomes.
Avoid this school if you want broad career preparation or lack clear professional goals. The low graduation rate and limited student support suggest you need strong self-direction to succeed here. Students seeking strong campus life or extensive academic resources should look elsewhere.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Frederick Community College worth the cost?
Frederick Community College offers strong value with a low net price of $2,801 per year and relatively low debt burden at graduation. However, the 35% graduation rate means many students don't complete their programs, which significantly impacts the return on investment.
What are the highest paying programs at Frederick Community College?
Nursing programs at Frederick Community College lead earnings with graduates making around $61,516 annually. Allied health diagnostic programs also perform well at $47,260, while liberal arts graduates earn significantly less at $23,842.
How much debt do Frederick Community College graduates have?
Frederick Community College graduates carry a median debt of $8,150, which is manageable compared to four-year schools. The low cost structure helps keep borrowing minimal for most students.
Do Frederick Community College graduates get good jobs?
Frederick Community College graduates earn $46,449 annually ten years after starting school, which is reasonable for a community college. Career outcomes depend heavily on your program choice, with healthcare fields significantly outperforming general studies.