Student Outcomes
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 44.2%
- Median Earnings (10 years after entry)
- $31,002
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $5,521
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 15:1
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 41.6%
- Estimated Monthly Loan Payment
- $59/mo
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 | $51,224 | $9,097 |
| Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services. | Associate | $44,384 | |
| Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions. | Associate | $31,848 | |
| Precision Metal Working. | Certificate | $29,685 | |
| Health and Medical Administrative Services. | Associate | $28,019 | |
| Heavy/Industrial Equipment Maintenance Technologies. | Certificate | $26,353 | |
| Practical Nursing, Vocational Nursing and Nursing Assistants. | Certificate | $19,957 | $6,126 |
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. | Associate | $17,794 | |
| Cosmetology and Related Personal Grooming Services. | Certificate | $15,048 |
Outcomes Overview
Graduates earn a median of $31,002 ten years after leaving, while carrying just $5,521 in debt. Monthly loan payments of $59 represent only 2.3% of typical graduate income, well below the recommended 10% threshold. The 41.6% loan repayment rate reflects the financial challenges many community college students face, though the low debt burden helps. An impressive 94.9% employment rate shows strong job placement success. Meridian's programs in healthcare, automotive technology, and skilled trades prepare students for Mississippi's growing industrial sector. Many graduates transfer to four-year universities or enter careers as medical assistants, welders, and technicians. The combination of minimal debt and solid employment prospects creates a strong return on investment for students seeking practical career training.