Student Outcomes
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 18.5%
- Median Earnings (10 years after entry)
- $38,377
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $9,000
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 20:1
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 36.5%
- Estimated Monthly Loan Payment
- $95/mo
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 | $54,732 | $14,277 |
| Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications. | Associate | $53,358 | |
| Criminal Justice and Corrections. | Certificate | $53,358 | $9,000 |
| Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions. | Associate | $41,025 | |
| Dental Support Services and Allied Professions. | Associate | $39,369 | $14,957 |
| Heating, Air Conditioning, Ventilation and Refrigeration Maintenance Technology/Technician (HAC, HACR, HVAC, HVACR). | Certificate | $38,289 | |
| Practical Nursing, Vocational Nursing and Nursing Assistants. | Certificate | $37,671 | $9,407 |
| Accounting and Related Services. | Associate | $36,674 | $9,000 |
| Business Operations Support and Assistant Services. | Associate | $36,042 | |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Associate | $33,779 | $14,500 |
| Criminal Justice and Corrections. | Associate | $32,711 | $11,600 |
| Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services. | Associate | $32,162 | |
| Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management. | Certificate | $31,941 | |
| Computer Programming. | Associate | $30,771 | |
| Precision Metal Working. | Certificate | $29,995 | $4,240 |
Outcomes Overview
Grand Rapids Community College graduates enter the workforce with manageable debt loads and solid earning potential. The median debt of $9,000 creates a debt-to-earnings ratio of just 0.23, well below the concerning 1.0 threshold. Monthly loan payments of $95 represent only 3% of typical graduate income, making repayment comfortable for most. The college's strong ties to West Michigan's manufacturing and healthcare sectors help explain the 93.9% employment rate. Many graduates transition into skilled trades, nursing, or continue their education at four-year institutions. With low debt, decent earnings, and high employment rates in a region known for economic stability, this represents a strong return on investment for career-focused students.