At $7,461/yr net price, Glendale Community College graduates earn $41,540/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $7,540/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $7,461 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $29,844 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $41,540/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$7,540/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 4 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 33.3% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $8,972 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $6,488/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $7,466/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $10,152/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $11,876/yr |
| $110,001+ | $14,629/yr |
The Risk Factor
33.3% of students at Glendale 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
Glendale Community College delivers solid financial value for a two-year degree, with graduates earning a median of $41,540 annually while carrying manageable debt loads. Your total educational investment averages just $14,922 over two years, making this one of the more affordable pathways to career advancement in the Los Angeles area.
The school's location in Glendale positions you well for Southern California's diverse job market, where many employers value practical skills over four-year credentials. Healthcare programs, automotive technology, and business certificates tend to provide the strongest immediate returns, connecting directly to regional demand in hospitals, dealerships, and corporate offices throughout the San Fernando Valley.
Your main financial risk lies in the 33% graduation rate. If you struggle with completion, you'll carry debt without the credential boost. Part-time students face particular challenges here, as many work while attending classes.
This college works best financially if you're career-focused rather than transfer-oriented. Students planning to complete an associate degree and enter the workforce immediately see better returns than those using this as a stepping stone to a four-year university. The low debt burden makes it especially attractive for older students changing careers or those seeking quick certification in high-demand fields.
Financial aid covers 35% of students, but merit scholarships remain limited. Your best cost strategy involves maximizing California's community college fee waivers and completing your program quickly to minimize living expenses. The school's evening and weekend options help working students maintain income while studying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Glendale Community College worth the money?
Glendale Community College offers solid value with a low net price of $7,461 per year and manageable debt of $8,972. However, the 33% graduation rate is concerning, and 10-year earnings of $41,540 are modest for the Los Angeles area.
What is the ROI for Glendale Community College graduates?
Glendale Community College graduates earn a median of $41,540 ten years after enrollment, which provides a reasonable return given the low cost. The debt-to-income ratio is favorable, but earnings may struggle to keep pace with California's high cost of living.
How much debt do Glendale Community College students graduate with?
Glendale Community College students graduate with a median debt of $8,972, which is relatively low for California schools. This manageable debt load reduces financial risk, especially for students who complete their programs.
Should I attend Glendale Community College or a four-year university?
Glendale Community College makes sense if you plan to transfer to a four-year school or need specific career training at low cost. The 33% graduation rate suggests many students struggle to complete programs, so having a clear plan is important.