At $10,137/yr net price, Marion Military Institute graduates earn $59,644/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $25,644/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $10,137 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $40,548 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $59,644/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$25,644/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 1.6 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 31.5% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $9,250 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $8,713/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $8,128/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $10,843/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $11,984/yr |
| $110,001+ | $13,616/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 | $18,771 | $12,000 |
The Risk Factor
31.5% of students at Marion Military Institute 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
Marion Military Institute delivers poor financial returns that make it a risky investment for most students. With median earnings of $59,644 ten years after enrollment and a graduation rate of just 31.5%, you face significant odds of leaving without a degree and limited earning potential even if you complete your program.
The numbers for Liberal Arts and Sciences graduates are particularly concerning, with median earnings of only $18,771 annually against $12,000 in debt. This creates a debt-to-income ratio that will strain your finances for years. The military structure and discipline may appeal to some students, but the financial fundamentals do not support the investment.
Your biggest risk at Marion Military Institute is the low graduation rate. Nearly 7 out of 10 students leave without completing their degree, often carrying debt with no credential to show for it. The limited program offerings also restrict your ability to pivot if your initial major choice proves financially unviable.
This school might work financially if you plan to transfer to a four-year institution and view Marion Military Institute purely as an affordable stepping stone. The net price of $10,137 is reasonable for a two-year program, and only 43% of students need financial aid, suggesting many families can afford the costs upfront.
Skip Marion Military Institute if you need strong career earnings or want a reliable path to degree completion. The combination of low graduation rates and weak earning outcomes creates too much downside risk for most students seeking a solid return on their education investment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Marion Military Institute worth the cost compared to other colleges?
Marion Military Institute has a relatively low net price at $10,137 annually, but graduates earn only $59,644 ten years after enrollment, which is below the national average. The 31% graduation rate is concerning and significantly impacts the school's overall value proposition.
What is the return on investment for Marion Military Institute graduates?
With median debt of $9,250 and ten-year earnings of $59,644, Marion Military Institute graduates face a manageable debt load but modest earning potential. The low graduation rate means many students don't complete their programs, making the investment risky.
Do Marion Military Institute's programs lead to good-paying jobs?
The top programs at Marion Military Institute are Liberal Arts and General Studies, which typically lead to lower-paying careers averaging $18,771 annually. Students should consider whether these fields align with their career goals and salary expectations.
How much debt do Marion Military Institute students typically graduate with?
Marion Military Institute graduates have a median debt of $9,250, which is relatively low compared to national averages. However, the school's 31% graduation rate means most students who start don't finish, potentially leaving them with debt but no degree.