At $11,196/yr net price, Los Angeles Pierce College graduates earn $44,521/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $10,521/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $11,196 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $44,784 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $44,521/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$10,521/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 4.3 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 41.4% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $12,936 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $10,111/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $10,990/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $14,228/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $15,592/yr |
| $110,001+ | $16,145/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 | $18,315 | |
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. | Certificate | $14,627 |
The Risk Factor
41.4% of students at Los Angeles Pierce College graduate within 6 years. More than half of students finish, but the dropout rate is a real factor in whether this investment pays off.
Analysis
Los Angeles Pierce College offers weak financial returns that make it a risky investment for most students. With median earnings of $44,521 ten years after enrollment and a graduation rate of just 41%, your chances of seeing strong income growth are limited.
The earnings data reveals a concerning pattern across programs. Liberal Arts and Sciences graduates earn between $14,627 and $18,315 annually, which falls well below living wages in the expensive Los Angeles market. These numbers suggest you'll struggle to cover basic expenses, let alone repay student loans or build wealth.
Your biggest financial risk at Pierce is the low completion rate. With fewer than half of students graduating, you face significant odds of accumulating debt without earning a credential. The median debt of $12,936 may seem manageable, but it becomes burdensome when paired with the low earning potential of available programs.
Pierce makes financial sense only if you plan to transfer to a four-year university after completing general education requirements at lower cost. The $11,196 annual net price is reasonable for California, making it a viable stepping stone if you maintain strong grades and have clear transfer plans.
If you need career training that leads directly to employment, look elsewhere. Pierce's program offerings don't align with higher-paying regional industries like technology, healthcare, or skilled trades. You'd be better served at community colleges with stronger vocational programs or four-year universities if you can afford them.
Financial aid reaches only 27% of students, suggesting limited scholarship opportunities. Your best cost strategy is completing transferable credits quickly and moving to a university with programs that match regional job demand.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Los Angeles Pierce College worth the cost?
Los Angeles Pierce College offers decent value with a low net price of $11,196 per year and relatively low debt of $12,936. However, the 41% graduation rate and modest median earnings of $44,521 after 10 years suggest mixed returns on investment.
What programs at Los Angeles Pierce College have the best ROI?
The Liberal Arts and Sciences programs at Los Angeles Pierce College lead to starting salaries around $14,627-$18,315, which is relatively low. Community college programs typically serve as stepping stones to four-year degrees rather than direct career preparation.
How much debt will I have after Los Angeles Pierce College?
Students at Los Angeles Pierce College graduate with a median debt of $12,936, which is manageable compared to four-year institutions. The low cost structure makes this a financially safer option for students unsure about their career path.
What are the job prospects after graduating from Los Angeles Pierce College?
Los Angeles Pierce College graduates earn a median of $44,521 ten years after enrollment. The 41% graduation rate indicates many students either transfer to four-year schools or leave without completing their program.