Student Outcomes
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 29.1%
- Median Earnings (10 years after entry)
- $37,815
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 27:1
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 | $89,672 | |
| Practical Nursing, Vocational Nursing and Nursing Assistants. | Certificate | $45,696 | |
| Criminal Justice and Corrections. | Associate | $30,988 | |
| Psychology, General. | Associate | $19,227 | |
| Human Development, Family Studies, and Related Services. | Associate | $16,478 |
Outcomes Overview
Merced College graduates earn a median of $37,815 ten years after enrollment, which reflects the community college's role as a regional workforce pipeline. The 29% six-year completion rate means many students transfer before finishing their associate degrees. With minimal borrowing required due to low tuition costs, debt-to-earnings ratios remain favorable for those who do borrow. The 90.4% employment rate demonstrates strong job placement in California's Central Valley economy. Many graduates enter healthcare support, agricultural technology, and public safety careers that serve the local Hispanic-majority community. While earnings lag behind four-year institutions, the combination of low debt and immediate workforce entry creates a strong return on investment for career-focused students.