At $24,334/yr net price, Lincoln College of Technology-Melrose Park graduates earn $38,683/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $4,683/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $24,334 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $97,336 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $38,683/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$4,683/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 20.8 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 65.3% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $11,250 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $23,498/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $24,074/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $25,273/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $26,824/yr |
| $110,001+ | $27,873/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies. | Associate | $30,336 | $18,885 |
| Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies. | Certificate | $30,265 | $13,062 |
| Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services. | Certificate | $26,284 | $10,932 |
The Risk Factor
65.3% of students at Lincoln College of Technology-Melrose Park graduate within 6 years. A significant share of students finish, but roughly 35% do not complete their degree.
Analysis
Lincoln College of Technology-Melrose Park delivers weak financial returns that struggle to justify its high costs. With a net price of $24,334 annually and median earnings of just $38,683 ten years after graduation, you face a concerning payback timeline that puts significant financial pressure on graduates.
The automotive programs generate the highest earnings at around $30,300 annually, but even these top performers carry substantial debt loads up to $18,885. Allied Health and Medical Assisting graduates earn notably less at $26,284 while taking on $10,932 in debt. None of these outcomes provide strong earning potential relative to the investment required.
Your biggest financial risk centers on the 35% of students who never graduate but still accumulate debt. The combination of high dropout rates and modest earning potential creates a dangerous scenario where you could end up with educational debt but no credential to show for it.
This school works best financially for students who already have stable employment in automotive fields and need specific certifications for advancement. If you require extensive financial aid or lack existing industry connections, you should seriously consider community college alternatives that offer similar programs at significantly lower costs.
The 68% of students receiving financial aid suggests most students struggle with affordability. Focus heavily on grants rather than loans, and complete your program quickly to minimize total costs. Consider part-time enrollment if you can work simultaneously in your field of study.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lincoln College of Technology-Melrose Park worth the cost?
With annual net costs of $24,334 and median earnings of $38,683 ten years after graduation, the ROI is modest. The relatively low median debt of $11,250 helps, but graduates earn less than many four-year college peers.
What are the best paying programs at Lincoln College of Technology-Melrose Park?
Vehicle maintenance and repair programs lead with graduates earning around $30,300 annually. Allied health programs pay less at $26,284, making automotive the better financial choice at this school.
How much debt do Lincoln College of Technology-Melrose Park graduates have?
The median debt is $11,250, which is lower than many colleges. However, with starting salaries in the high $20,000s to low $30,000s, even this amount creates a significant payment burden.
Do Lincoln College of Technology-Melrose Park graduates find jobs?
The 65% graduation rate suggests many students don't complete their programs. For those who do graduate, the technical focus in automotive and healthcare provides clear career paths, though at modest pay levels.