At $8,167/yr net price, Lamar Institute of Technology graduates earn $38,991/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $4,991/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $8,167 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $32,668 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $38,991/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$4,991/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 6.5 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 27.3% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $13,076 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $7,271/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $7,874/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $9,893/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $10,960/yr |
| $110,001+ | $13,389/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Physical Science Technologies/Technicians. | Associate | $67,288 | $13,769 |
| Electromechanical Instrumentation and Maintenance Technologies/Technicians. | Associate | $55,964 | $10,650 |
| Criminal Justice and Corrections. | Certificate | $54,661 | |
| Dental Support Services and Allied Professions. | Associate | $50,439 | |
| Precision Metal Working. | Certificate | $44,384 | |
| Fire Protection. | Certificate | $42,682 | |
| Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions. | Associate | $37,208 | $12,494 |
| Drafting/Design Engineering Technologies/Technicians. | Associate | $33,993 | |
| Business Operations Support and Assistant Services. | Associate | $23,649 |
The Risk Factor
27.3% of students at Lamar Institute of Technology 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
Lamar Institute of Technology delivers strong ROI for students who choose the right programs and complete their degrees. The $8,167 annual cost makes it one of the more affordable technical training options in Texas, but the 27% graduation rate means many students pay without finishing.
Physical Science Technologies and Electromechanical Instrumentation programs offer the best returns, with graduates earning over $55,000 annually. These technical fields align well with the petrochemical industry concentration around Beaumont and Port Arthur. Criminal Justice graduates also see solid earnings at $54,661, reflecting demand in the Golden Triangle region. Dental Support Services provides another reliable path with $50,439 median earnings.
The completion rate represents the biggest financial risk here. If you struggle with self-directed learning or need extensive academic support, you face high odds of leaving with debt but no credential. The $13,076 median debt load stays manageable for successful graduates but becomes problematic if you don't finish.
This school works best for motivated students seeking hands-on technical training who can handle the independent learning environment. If you need extensive tutoring, small class sizes, or complete student services, consider other options. The low percentage receiving financial aid suggests limited scholarship opportunities beyond federal programs.
You should target the highest-earning technical programs and have a backup plan if your first choice doesn't work out. The regional job market rewards technical skills, but only if you complete your program and earn the credential employers recognize.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lamar Institute of Technology worth the cost?
Lamar Institute of Technology offers decent value with a low net price of $8,167 annually and manageable debt of $13,076. However, the 27% graduation rate is concerning, and typical earnings of $39,000 after 10 years are modest for many career goals.
What are the best paying programs at Lamar Institute of Technology?
Physical Science Technologies leads at $67,288 annually, followed by Electromechanical Instrumentation at $55,964. These technical programs offer strong returns on the relatively low cost of attendance.
How much debt do Lamar Institute of Technology graduates have?
Graduates typically leave with $13,076 in debt, which is manageable given the school's affordable tuition. The low cost helps keep debt levels reasonable compared to four-year institutions.
What is the graduation rate at Lamar Institute of Technology?
Only 27% of students graduate from Lamar Institute of Technology. This low completion rate means many students leave without credentials and may still owe money for their incomplete education.