At $7,519/yr net price, Lee College graduates earn $42,178/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $8,178/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $7,519 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $30,076 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $42,178/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$8,178/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 3.7 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 18.8% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $7,500 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $7,575/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $6,970/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $7,388/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $8,154/yr |
| $110,001+ | $7,866/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Physical Science Technologies/Technicians. | Associate | $80,071 | $8,225 |
| Electromechanical Instrumentation and Maintenance Technologies/Technicians. | Associate | $71,957 | |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Associate | $62,154 | $9,500 |
| Drafting/Design Engineering Technologies/Technicians. | Associate | $38,289 | |
| Business Operations Support and Assistant Services. | Associate | $24,035 | |
| Cosmetology and Related Personal Grooming Services. | Certificate | $10,925 |
The Risk Factor
18.8% of students at Lee 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
Lee College delivers strong returns for students who choose the right programs, but the overall picture is complicated by a low graduation rate that undermines the school's financial value proposition.
The petrochemical industry concentration around Baytown creates strong opportunities for technical graduates. Physical Science Technologies leads at $80,071 annually, while Electromechanical Instrumentation hits $71,957. These programs justify the modest $7,500 debt load and position you for immediate entry into high-paying refinery and chemical plant jobs that dominate the local economy.
Nursing also performs well at $62,154, though the $9,500 debt load is higher. The Houston medical market provides strong job security and growth potential for Lee College nursing graduates.
Avoid Business Operations Support, where $24,035 earnings barely exceed what you could earn without college. The 18.80% graduation rate signals serious completion challenges that could leave you with debt but no degree.
Your biggest financial risk is not finishing. Lee College works best if you have strong study habits and clear career goals in technical fields. The low completion rate suggests many students struggle with the academic demands or lack direction.
You're a good fit if you want direct entry into petrochemical or healthcare work and can handle the coursework independently. Look elsewhere if you need extensive academic support or want broader career flexibility. The school's regional focus limits your options if you plan to relocate.
Financial aid reaches only 32% of students, suggesting most families can handle the low $7,519 net price. Focus on completing your program quickly to maximize your return and minimize opportunity costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lee College worth the cost compared to other schools?
Lee College offers strong value with a low net price of $7,519 annually and median debt of only $7,500. However, the 19% graduation rate is concerning and may affect your ability to complete a program.
What Lee College programs have the best return on investment?
Physical Science Technologies and Electromechanical Instrumentation programs at Lee College lead to median earnings above $70,000. These technical programs justify the investment, while business support programs earn significantly less at $24,000.
How much debt do Lee College graduates typically have?
Lee College graduates carry a median debt of $7,500, which is relatively low for higher education. The affordable tuition and strong financial aid help keep borrowing minimal for those who complete their programs.
Do Lee College graduates earn enough to justify the cost?
Lee College graduates earn a median of $42,178 after 10 years, which is reasonable given the low cost and debt levels. Earnings vary significantly by program, with technical fields offering much better returns than general business programs.