At $10,925/yr net price, Hennepin Technical College graduates earn $49,460/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $15,460/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $10,925 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $43,700 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $49,460/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$15,460/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 2.8 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 44.2% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $11,433 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $8,700/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $8,880/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $9,958/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $13,021/yr |
| $110,001+ | $15,524/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Heating, Air Conditioning, Ventilation and Refrigeration Maintenance Technology/Technician (HAC, HACR, HVAC, HVACR). | Associate | $62,012 | $14,751 |
| Precision Metal Working. | Associate | $58,221 | |
| Industrial Production Technologies/Technicians. | Certificate | $51,273 | |
| Heating, Air Conditioning, Ventilation and Refrigeration Maintenance Technology/Technician (HAC, HACR, HVAC, HVACR). | Certificate | $50,856 | |
| Engineering-Related Technologies. | Associate | $49,827 | |
| Electrical Engineering Technologies/Technicians. | Associate | $49,683 | |
| Criminal Justice and Corrections. | Certificate | $49,136 | $5,329 |
| Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management. | Associate | $48,628 | $17,213 |
| Electromechanical Instrumentation and Maintenance Technologies/Technicians. | Associate | $48,432 | $15,350 |
| Fire Protection. | Associate | $47,260 |
The Risk Factor
44.2% of students at Hennepin Technical College graduate within 6 years. More than half of students finish, but the dropout rate is a real factor in whether this investment pays off.
Analysis
Hennepin Technical College delivers solid financial returns for students who pick the right programs and finish their degrees. The HVAC program stands out with graduates earning over $62,000 annually, making the $14,751 in debt manageable with a payback period under three years. Precision metal working and industrial production technologies also generate strong returns in Minnesota's manufacturing-heavy economy.
Your biggest financial risk is the 44% graduation rate. More than half of students leave without completing their programs, often carrying debt with no credential to show for it. The programs that do pay off require hands-on skills training that matches well with regional demand from companies like 3M, Medtronic, and Twin Cities manufacturers.
Skip this school if you want a traditional college experience or plan to transfer to a four-year university. The technical focus means limited general education options and few transfer pathways. You'll get better value here if you're serious about entering skilled trades quickly.
The low percentage of students receiving financial aid suggests most can afford the modest costs without heavy borrowing. At under $11,000 annually, this school costs less than most community colleges while preparing you for jobs that often pay more than bachelor's degree careers. Focus on HVAC, precision metalworking, or industrial production if you want the strongest financial outcomes. Avoid programs not listed among the top earners, as they likely lead to jobs paying closer to the overall median of $49,460.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Hennepin Technical College worth the cost?
Hennepin Technical College offers decent value for students who complete their programs, with graduates earning $49,460 annually against $11,433 in median debt. However, the 44% graduation rate means many students don't finish, which significantly hurts the return on investment.
What are the highest paying programs at Hennepin Technical College?
HVAC programs at Hennepin Technical College lead to the highest earnings at around $62,000 annually, followed by precision metalworking at $58,221. These skilled trades programs offer strong job market prospects and pay well above the school's average graduate earnings.
How much debt do Hennepin Technical College graduates have?
Hennepin Technical College graduates carry a median debt of $11,433, which is manageable compared to four-year schools. The relatively low debt load makes the programs financially viable for most completers, especially in high-paying trades.
What is the graduation rate at Hennepin Technical College?
Hennepin Technical College has a 44% graduation rate, meaning more than half of students don't complete their programs. This low completion rate is the biggest risk factor when considering the school's value.