At $13,846/yr net price, Manchester Community College graduates earn $49,063/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $15,063/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $13,846 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $55,384 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $49,063/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$15,063/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 3.7 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 36.8% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $15,060 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $11,386/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $16,885/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $17,069/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $17,069/yr |
| $110,001+ | $17,069/yr |
The Risk Factor
36.8% of students at Manchester Community 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
Manchester Community College delivers weak financial returns despite its low sticker price. Your median earnings of $49,063 ten years after enrollment barely justify the $13,846 annual net cost, especially considering the dismal 36.80% graduation rate.
The numbers tell a concerning story about completion rates. Nearly two-thirds of students leave without finishing their programs, meaning you face significant risk of accumulating debt without earning a credential. The $15,060 median debt load may seem manageable, but it becomes problematic if you don't graduate.
Healthcare programs like nursing and medical assisting typically offer the strongest ROI at community colleges, but you should verify specific job placement rates and starting salaries for Manchester's programs before enrolling. Liberal arts and general studies programs here likely lead to poor financial outcomes given the overall earnings data.
The 25.30% financial aid rate suggests limited need-based assistance compared to other community colleges. You'll likely pay close to the full net price unless you qualify for federal Pell grants or New Hampshire state aid programs.
This school makes financial sense only if you have a clear career path requiring specific technical training, can commit to completing your program, and have researched local job markets for your chosen field. Students seeking general education or uncertain about their career direction should consider New Hampshire's four-year public universities instead, which offer better long-term earning potential despite higher upfront costs.
If you do enroll here, treat completion as non-negotiable. The earnings data only applies to graduates, and dropping out leaves you with debt and no credential to show for it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Manchester Community College worth the money?
Manchester Community College offers reasonable value with a net price of $13,846 annually and graduates earning $49,063 after 10 years. However, the 37% graduation rate means many students don't complete their programs, which significantly impacts the return on investment.
What is the job outlook for Manchester Community College graduates?
Manchester Community College graduates earn around $49,000 annually 10 years after starting college, which is modest but reasonable for a two-year degree. Career-focused programs in healthcare and skilled trades typically see better employment outcomes than general studies.
How much student debt do Manchester Community College students graduate with?
The median debt for Manchester Community College graduates is $15,060, which is manageable compared to four-year colleges. This debt level is reasonable given the earning potential, though students should focus on completing their degree to make the investment worthwhile.
What are the best programs at Manchester Community College for ROI?
Nursing, automotive technology, and other healthcare programs at Manchester Community College typically offer the strongest return on investment. These career-focused programs have better job placement rates and starting salaries compared to general education tracks.