At $11,972/yr net price, Los Angeles Mission College graduates earn $39,834/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $5,834/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $11,972 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $47,888 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $39,834/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$5,834/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 8.2 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 30.7% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $12,678 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $11,171/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $11,205/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $14,131/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $16,156/yr |
| $110,001+ | $12,128/yr |
The Risk Factor
30.7% of students at Los Angeles Mission 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
Los Angeles Mission College delivers weak financial returns despite its low net price of under $12,000 annually. The 10-year median earnings of $39,834 barely justify the investment, especially when combined with a concerning 30.7% graduation rate that means most students leave without completing their programs.
Your best bet at Mission College lies in career-focused programs that lead directly to employment in the San Fernando Valley's growing industries. Healthcare support programs, automotive technology, and business administration offer clearer pathways to stable employment in the local job market. Avoid liberal arts transfers unless you have a solid four-year completion plan, as incomplete community college credits provide minimal earning power.
The biggest financial risk here is non-completion. With seven out of ten students failing to graduate, you face the possibility of accumulating debt and time costs without credential benefits. The median debt of $12,678 may seem manageable, but it becomes problematic if you don't finish your program or transfer successfully.
Mission College makes financial sense if you're a working adult seeking specific job training, live locally to minimize housing costs, or need affordable prerequisites before transferring to a CSU campus. The school works less well if you lack clear career direction or struggle with self-directed learning in a commuter environment.
With only 21% of students receiving aid, you'll likely pay close to full price. California residents should maximize Cal Grant eligibility and consider concurrent enrollment at multiple community colleges to accelerate completion. The key to positive ROI here is finishing quickly and choosing programs with direct employment outcomes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Los Angeles Mission College worth the cost?
Los Angeles Mission College offers reasonable value with a net price of $11,972 per year and graduates earning $39,834 after 10 years. However, the 31% graduation rate means most students don't complete their programs, which significantly reduces ROI for those who don't finish.
What is the return on investment for Los Angeles Mission College?
Graduates earn about $40,000 annually 10 years after enrollment with median debt of $12,678. The low debt burden helps ROI, but the poor graduation rate means many students invest time and money without earning a credential.
Which programs at Los Angeles Mission College have the best job prospects?
Healthcare programs like nursing and medical assisting typically offer the strongest job prospects at community colleges. Trade programs in areas like automotive technology and construction also provide direct paths to employment in the Los Angeles area.
How much student debt do Los Angeles Mission College graduates typically have?
Graduates have a median debt of $12,678, which is manageable compared to four-year colleges. Most community college students also receive significant financial aid, keeping actual costs lower than the sticker price.