At $6,588/yr net price, Georgia Highlands College graduates earn $43,184/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $9,184/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $6,588 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $26,352 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $43,184/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$9,184/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 2.9 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 20.8% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $12,000 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $4,996/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $5,330/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $8,456/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $10,826/yr |
| $110,001+ | $11,605/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 | $57,860 | $11,750 |
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. | Associate | $25,856 | $10,000 |
The Risk Factor
20.8% of students at Georgia Highlands 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
Georgia Highlands College delivers solid financial value for a two-year degree that transfers or leads directly to work. At $6,588 per year, the net price sits well below most four-year alternatives while keeping median debt at just $12,000.
The nursing program stands out as the clear financial winner, producing graduates who earn $57,860 annually. This represents excellent ROI given the manageable debt load and strong regional demand for healthcare workers in northwest Georgia. Liberal arts and general studies graduates see more modest returns at $25,856, but the low debt burden keeps this pathway financially viable for students planning to transfer.
The 20.80% graduation rate signals a major risk. Many students leave without completing their programs, forfeiting both time and money. The 67.31% retention rate suggests academic preparation or life circumstances prevent many from finishing. You need realistic assessment of your readiness for college-level work before enrolling.
Georgia Highlands works best for career-focused students targeting specific programs like nursing or those using it as an affordable stepping stone to a four-year degree. The location serves students in Rome and the surrounding region who want to stay local while building credentials.
Skip this school if you need extensive student support services or want a traditional four-year college experience. The low completion rates make it risky for students who struggle academically or lack clear goals. Students planning to transfer should verify credit acceptance at their target universities before enrolling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Georgia Highlands College worth the cost for the tuition price?
At $6,588 per year, Georgia Highlands College offers one of the most affordable options in Georgia. However, the 21% graduation rate means most students don't finish their programs, which significantly impacts the value proposition.
What programs at Georgia Highlands College have the best return on investment?
Nursing programs at Georgia Highlands College lead to median earnings of $57,860 after 10 years, making them the clear winners for ROI. Liberal arts and general studies graduates earn significantly less at $25,856, barely above the overall school median of $43,184.
How much student debt do Georgia Highlands College graduates typically have?
Georgia Highlands College graduates have a median debt of $12,000, which is relatively low compared to four-year institutions. The manageable debt load helps offset concerns about the school's below-average earnings outcomes.
Does Georgia Highlands College provide good value compared to other colleges?
Georgia Highlands College provides decent value primarily due to its low cost and minimal debt. The major red flag is the extremely low graduation rate of 21%, meaning four out of five students don't complete their programs.