At $8,715/yr net price, Little Big Horn College graduates earn $21,152/yr within 10 years of enrollment.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $8,715 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $34,860 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $21,152/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | $-12,848/yr |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 10.8% |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $8,760/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $8,404/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $8,716/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. | Associate | $17,677 |
The Risk Factor
10.8% of students at Little Big Horn 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
Little Big Horn College presents a challenging financial proposition with median earnings of $21,152 ten years after entry, well below the poverty line for a family of four. The extremely low graduation rate of 10.8% means most students leave without completing their programs, often carrying debt but no credential.
The Liberal Arts and Sciences program produces the highest earnings at $17,677 annually, but this figure falls short of sustainable income levels in most markets. With such limited earning potential across all programs, your investment faces significant risk regardless of your chosen field of study.
The college serves a specific population on the Crow Reservation, and its value extends beyond pure financial returns for students seeking to remain in their community. However, if your primary goal is economic advancement, the numbers suggest you should consider alternatives with stronger job placement records and higher-paying program options.
Financial aid coverage appears limited with only 36% of students receiving assistance. The relatively low net price of $8,715 helps minimize debt exposure, but even this modest cost becomes problematic when weighed against the poor completion rates and low earning outcomes.
This college works best for students who prioritize staying within their tribal community and understand the cultural and social benefits may outweigh financial returns. If you need your education to provide clear economic advancement or career mobility, the data strongly suggests looking at institutions with higher graduation rates and programs that lead to better-paying employment opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Little Big Horn College worth the cost for career earnings?
Little Big Horn College graduates earn a median of $21,152 ten years after enrollment, which is significantly below the national average for college graduates. The low earnings relative to even the modest $8,715 annual cost make the financial return challenging.
What is the graduation rate at Little Big Horn College and does it affect value?
Only 10.8% of students graduate from Little Big Horn College, which is extremely low compared to national averages. This poor completion rate means most students may accumulate debt without earning a degree.
Which programs at Little Big Horn College offer the best return on investment?
Liberal Arts and Sciences is the main program at Little Big Horn College, with graduates earning around $17,677. This is still well below typical college graduate earnings, making the financial case weak regardless of program choice.
Should I consider Little Big Horn College if I need financial aid?
While Little Big Horn College has a relatively low net price of $8,715, the extremely low graduation rate and poor earnings outcomes create significant risk even with financial aid. Students should carefully consider whether they're likely to complete their degree.