At $8,222/yr net price, Lower Columbia College graduates earn $40,691/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $6,691/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $8,222 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $32,888 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $40,691/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$6,691/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 4.9 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 25.0% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $10,506 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $6,427/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $8,037/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $9,265/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $14,179/yr |
| $110,001+ | $15,683/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Associate | $70,628 | $10,035 |
| Precision Metal Working. | Associate | $34,704 | |
| Health and Medical Administrative Services. | Associate | $30,771 | |
| Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies. | Associate | $29,685 | |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Associate | $23,579 | |
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. | Associate | $23,340 | $7,667 |
| Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management. | Associate | $22,806 |
The Risk Factor
25.0% of students at Lower Columbia 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
Lower Columbia College delivers solid financial value for students who pick the right programs, but the low graduation rate creates significant risk. At $8,222 per year, the net price is affordable, and the median debt of $10,506 won't crush your budget after graduation.
Nursing stands out as the clear winner financially, with graduates earning $70,628 annually. This program alone justifies attending LCC if you can handle the coursework and clinical requirements. The other health programs and skilled trades like precision metalworking and vehicle repair also provide decent returns given the low cost of attendance.
Business administration graduates face a tougher financial reality, earning just $23,579 annually. This creates a weak return on investment even at LCC's low prices. You're better off pursuing business elsewhere or switching to one of the college's stronger technical programs.
The 25% graduation rate represents your biggest financial risk. Three out of four students don't finish, leaving them with debt but no credential. If you struggle with self-direction or need extensive academic support, this school may not provide enough structure for success.
LCC works best for motivated students targeting nursing or skilled trades who want to avoid massive debt. The college serves the southwestern Washington job market well, particularly in healthcare and manufacturing. With only 31% of students receiving aid, merit opportunities appear limited, but the base price stays reasonable for most families.
Skip LCC if you need a traditional four-year experience, extensive student services, or want to study liberal arts. The low graduation rate and limited program variety make it unsuitable for undecided students or those requiring significant academic support.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lower Columbia College worth the cost?
Lower Columbia College offers good value at $8,222 per year with relatively low debt of $10,506. However, the 25% graduation rate is concerning and typical earnings of $40,691 after 10 years are modest compared to four-year degrees.
What are the best paying programs at Lower Columbia College?
Nursing programs at Lower Columbia College lead to the highest earnings at $70,628 annually. Precision metalworking pays $34,704, while most other programs result in earnings below $31,000.
How much debt will I have from Lower Columbia College?
Students at Lower Columbia College graduate with a median debt of $10,506, which is manageable compared to many colleges. The low net price of $8,222 per year helps keep borrowing minimal.
What is the graduation rate at Lower Columbia College?
Lower Columbia College has a 25% graduation rate, meaning three out of four students do not complete their programs. This low completion rate is a significant risk factor when considering the return on investment.