At $7,636/yr net price, Leeward Community College graduates earn $39,899/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $5,899/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $7,636 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $30,544 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $39,899/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$5,899/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 5.2 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 31.6% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $8,970 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $6,457/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $7,508/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $8,703/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $10,457/yr |
| $110,001+ | $12,110/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies. | Associate | $37,208 | |
| Culinary Arts and Related Services. | Associate | $32,563 | |
| Accounting and Related Services. | Associate | $28,598 | |
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. | Associate | $26,739 | |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Associate | $22,999 | |
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. | Associate | $22,290 | $9,270 |
The Risk Factor
31.6% of students at Leeward Community 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
Leeward Community College offers weak financial returns despite its low cost, with median earnings of just $39,899 ten years after graduation. Your biggest risk isn't the affordable $7,636 annual net price or modest $8,970 debt load - it's the 31.6% graduation rate that means two-thirds of students leave without completing their programs.
The automotive technology program provides the strongest financial outcome at $37,208 annually, reflecting Hawaii's need for skilled mechanics on an isolated island chain. Culinary arts graduates earn $32,563, capitalizing on the state's massive tourism industry. However, business administration majors face disappointing returns at just $22,999 despite this being a popular program choice.
You face location-specific financial challenges at Leeward. Hawaii's high cost of living means even the decent-seeming automotive salaries translate to limited purchasing power. The state's geographic isolation also restricts job mobility - if your chosen field lacks local opportunities, relocating to the mainland adds significant costs.
This school makes financial sense if you're pursuing hands-on technical training in automotive repair or culinary arts while already living in Hawaii. The low debt burden and connection to local industries create manageable pathways to employment. However, you should avoid Leeward if you're considering business programs or if you need a bachelor's degree for your career goals.
With only 19.5% of students receiving financial aid, most families pay the sticker price. Focus on completing your program quickly since the low graduation rate suggests many students struggle with persistence. Consider this a stepping stone rather than a final destination for your education.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Leeward Community College worth the cost?
Leeward Community College offers decent value with low costs ($7,636 annually) and manageable debt ($8,970 median). However, the 32% graduation rate is concerning, and average earnings of $39,899 after 10 years are modest for Hawaii's high cost of living.
What are the best paying programs at Leeward Community College?
Vehicle maintenance and repair technologies leads with $37,208 median earnings, followed by culinary arts at $32,563. Most other programs, including business administration, produce earnings below $30,000.
How much student debt do Leeward Community College graduates have?
Graduates carry a median debt of $8,970, which is relatively low for higher education. The affordable tuition helps keep borrowing minimal compared to four-year institutions.
What is the graduation rate at Leeward Community College?
Only 32% of students graduate from Leeward Community College. This low completion rate means many students may accumulate debt without earning a credential.