At $5,462/yr net price, Midlands Technical College graduates earn $38,701/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $4,701/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $5,462 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $21,848 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $38,701/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$4,701/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 4.6 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 16.3% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $12,000 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $4,839/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $3,522/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $6,031/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $6,717/yr |
| $110,001+ | $6,552/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 | $54,696 | $16,000 |
| Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions. | Associate | $43,798 | $17,000 |
| Data Processing. | Associate | $40,461 | $10,250 |
| Heating, Air Conditioning, Ventilation and Refrigeration Maintenance Technology/Technician (HAC, HACR, HVAC, HVACR). | Associate | $38,289 | |
| Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other. | Associate | $35,416 | $12,000 |
| Computer and Information Sciences and Support Services, Other. | Associate | $35,060 | |
| Legal Support Services. | Certificate | $35,060 | |
| Legal Support Services. | Associate | $32,711 | $12,625 |
| Criminal Justice and Corrections. | Associate | $31,670 | $15,575 |
| Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies. | Associate | $30,409 |
The Risk Factor
16.3% of students at Midlands Technical 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
Midlands Technical College delivers solid returns for specific career-focused programs, but you need to choose your major carefully to avoid the financial trap that catches many students here.
The nursing program stands out as the clear financial winner, producing graduates earning $54,696 annually with manageable debt loads. Allied health programs also perform well at nearly $44,000 in median earnings. These healthcare tracks align perfectly with South Carolina's growing medical sector and justify the investment even with slightly higher debt burdens.
The concerning reality is that only 16% of students actually graduate, creating significant financial risk for those who accumulate debt without completing their programs. This low completion rate means many students face the worst possible outcome: debt without credentials.
Data processing offers a middle-ground option with reasonable earnings and the lowest debt burden at $10,250. HVAC training provides steady work in the region's construction and maintenance sectors, though earnings plateau around $38,000.
You should pursue Midlands Tech if you can commit fully to nursing or allied health programs and have the academic preparation to complete them. The low net price makes it accessible, and nearly 40% of students receive financial aid.
Avoid this school if you're unsure about your major or lack the discipline to finish. The abysmal graduation rate suggests many students struggle with completion, making it financially dangerous for unfocused or underprepared students. Liberal arts transfers should particularly look elsewhere, as the general studies track shows weak earnings potential relative to debt.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Midlands Technical College worth the cost?
Midlands Technical College offers good value with a low net price of $5,462 per year and manageable debt around $12,000. However, the 16% graduation rate is concerning and significantly impacts ROI for many students.
What programs at Midlands Technical College have the best job prospects?
Nursing programs lead with graduates earning $54,696 annually, followed by allied health at $43,798. HVAC and data processing programs also show solid returns above the school average.
How much debt do Midlands Technical College graduates typically have?
Median debt is $12,000, which is relatively low for higher education. The bigger financial risk comes from the low graduation rate rather than excessive borrowing.
What are the biggest risks of attending Midlands Technical College?
The 16% graduation rate means most students don't finish their programs. Students who do graduate outside of healthcare fields may struggle to earn much above the $38,701 average.