Student Outcomes
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 44.1%
- Median Earnings (10 years after entry)
- $34,770
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 7:1
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 34.4%
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 | $51,690 | |
| Forestry. | Associate | $31,848 | |
| Wildlife and Wildlands Science and Management. | Associate | $26,739 | |
| Health and Medical Administrative Services. | Associate | $26,353 | |
| Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services. | Associate | $25,967 | |
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. | Associate | $22,681 | |
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. | Associate | $21,052 |
Outcomes Overview
Haywood graduates earn a median of $34,770 ten years after leaving, which puts them ahead of many community college peers but below the national average for all college graduates. With in-state tuition at just $2,612 and minimal borrowing (0% federal loan rate), most students graduate debt-free or with very low debt loads. The 91.4% employment rate shows strong job placement in the rural North Carolina mountains, where many graduates find work in healthcare, manufacturing, and skilled trades that serve the local tourism economy. Students typically enter fields like nursing, welding, and business that don't require four-year degrees but offer stable middle-class incomes. This represents a strong return on investment for students seeking practical career training.