At $19,826/yr net price, Johnson College graduates earn $55,194/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $21,194/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $19,826 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $79,304 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $55,194/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$21,194/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 3.7 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 47.1% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $12,000 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $18,021/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $19,853/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $21,019/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $22,237/yr |
| $110,001+ | $22,903/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions. | Associate | $39,729 | |
| Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies. | Associate | $39,009 | $12,000 |
| Electrical and Power Transmission Installers. | Associate | $33,993 | $15,500 |
| Precision Metal Working. | Certificate | $32,569 | |
| Heating, Air Conditioning, Ventilation and Refrigeration Maintenance Technology/Technician (HAC, HACR, HVAC, HVACR). | Associate | $29,250 | |
| Veterinary/Animal Health Technologies/Technicians. | Associate | $25,194 |
The Risk Factor
47.1% of students at Johnson 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
Johnson College delivers solid financial returns for a two-year technical school, with graduates earning a median $55,194 annually against relatively low debt loads of $12,000. The school's focus on skilled trades aligns well with Pennsylvania's industrial job market, where demand for technical workers remains strong.
Vehicle maintenance and repair programs offer the best value proposition, generating nearly $40,000 in annual earnings with manageable debt. Allied health programs also reach similar earning levels, though specific debt figures vary by specialty. Electrical and power transmission programs provide decent returns at $33,993 annually, though debt climbs to $15,500. HVAC programs lag significantly at $29,250, making the return questionable given the time and cost investment.
The 47% graduation rate presents the biggest financial risk. Nearly half of students leave without completing their programs, losing both time and money. You face better odds if you choose automotive or allied health tracks, which typically have stronger completion rates and clearer career paths.
Johnson College works best for you if you want immediate entry into skilled trades without accumulating massive debt. The school makes financial sense for career changers seeking technical skills or high school graduates wanting alternatives to four-year degrees. Skip this option if you need extensive academic support or prefer theoretical over hands-on learning.
With less than half of students receiving financial aid, merit opportunities appear limited. Your best strategy involves choosing programs with the strongest local job placement rates and avoiding lower-paying specialties like HVAC unless you have specific industry connections.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Johnson College worth the cost?
Johnson College offers decent value for technical training with low debt levels ($12,000 median) and reasonable earnings ($55,194 after 10 years). However, the 47% graduation rate means many students don't complete their programs, which significantly increases the risk.
Which Johnson College programs have the best ROI?
Allied Health programs offer the strongest return with graduates earning around $39,729, while electrical and vehicle maintenance programs also provide solid career prospects. HVAC programs show lower starting salaries at $29,250, making them a riskier investment.
What is the job market like for Johnson College graduates?
Graduates typically find work in skilled trades and healthcare support roles with median earnings of $55,194 ten years after enrollment. The technical focus aligns well with regional demand, though earnings vary significantly by program.
How much debt do Johnson College students graduate with?
The median debt is relatively low at $12,000, making it more manageable than many four-year colleges. With a net price of $19,826 per year, students who complete programs typically avoid crushing debt loads.