At $7,672/yr net price, Hagerstown Community College graduates earn $41,615/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $7,615/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $7,672 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $30,688 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $41,615/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$7,615/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 4 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 36.4% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $11,000 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $5,856/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $5,839/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $8,039/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $10,920/yr |
| $110,001+ | $11,220/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 | $61,218 | $15,000 |
| Dental Support Services and Allied Professions. | Associate | $53,984 | $13,000 |
| Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions. | Associate | $43,798 | $18,500 |
| Ground Transportation. | Certificate | $42,682 | $4,750 |
| Management Information Systems and Services. | Associate | $42,682 | |
| Dental Support Services and Allied Professions. | Certificate | $27,874 | |
| Business/Commerce, General. | Associate | $26,353 | $11,591 |
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. | Associate | $17,794 | $9,552 |
The Risk Factor
36.4% of students at Hagerstown 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
Hagerstown Community College delivers solid ROI for healthcare programs but weak returns for most other fields. The nursing program produces graduates earning $61,218 annually with manageable $15,000 debt loads, creating a strong financial foundation in Maryland's competitive healthcare market.
Dental support services and allied health programs also justify their costs, with earnings in the $44,000-$54,000 range. Ground transportation stands out for minimal debt exposure at $4,750 while matching the school's overall median earnings. These vocational tracks align well with regional employment opportunities around Hagerstown and nearby areas.
The concerning reality is that most graduates earn just $41,615 ten years post-graduation despite the low $7,672 annual cost. The 36% graduation rate means nearly two-thirds of students leave without completing their programs, creating financial risk for those who accumulate debt without credentials.
You should consider Hagerstown if you plan to enter nursing, dental support, or transportation fields where job placement rates remain strong locally. The school works best for students who can complete programs quickly and enter the workforce immediately. Avoid this option if you need extensive academic support or plan to transfer to four-year institutions, as the low completion rates suggest systemic challenges.
Financial aid reaches only 30% of students, limiting support for those who need it most. Focus on completing your program within two years to minimize total costs and maximize your earning potential in the regional job market.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Hagerstown Community College worth the cost?
With a net price of $7,672 per year and median debt of only $11,000, Hagerstown Community College offers solid value for students who complete their programs. However, the 36% graduation rate means many students don't finish, which hurts the return on investment.
What are the highest paying programs at Hagerstown Community College?
Nursing programs at Hagerstown Community College lead to the highest earnings at $61,218 annually, followed by dental support services at $53,984. These health-focused programs significantly outperform the overall graduate average of $41,615.
How much debt do Hagerstown Community College students typically have?
Hagerstown Community College graduates have a median debt of $11,000, which is manageable compared to four-year schools. The low debt load makes even moderate-paying careers financially viable after graduation.
What is the job market like for Hagerstown Community College graduates?
Graduates earn an average of $41,615 ten years after starting school, with significant variation by program. Health and technical programs perform well, while the overall average reflects the mixed outcomes across different career paths.