At $13,235/yr net price, Minneapolis Community and Technical College graduates earn $40,086/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $6,086/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $13,235 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $52,940 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $40,086/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$6,086/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 8.7 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 16.8% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $17,954 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $12,634/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $12,759/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $14,111/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $15,709/yr |
| $110,001+ | $18,264/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Heating, Air Conditioning, Ventilation and Refrigeration Maintenance Technology/Technician (HAC, HACR, HVAC, HVACR). | Associate | $63,005 | $20,000 |
| Computer Programming. | Associate | $60,094 | $18,000 |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Associate | $58,866 | $21,000 |
| Precision Metal Working. | Associate | $55,512 | |
| Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions. | Associate | $52,107 | |
| Drafting/Design Engineering Technologies/Technicians. | Certificate | $48,823 | |
| Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management. | Associate | $46,673 | $17,500 |
| Clinical/Medical Laboratory Science/Research and Allied Professions. | Certificate | $42,309 | |
| Computer Software and Media Applications. | Associate | $41,725 | |
| Electrical and Power Transmission Installers. | Certificate | $41,193 |
The Risk Factor
16.8% of students at Minneapolis Community and 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
Minneapolis Community and Technical College offers strong financial returns for specific career-focused programs, but your success depends heavily on choosing the right major and completing your degree.
HVAC technology graduates earn $63,005 annually with manageable debt loads around $20,000, delivering solid ROI in Minnesota's construction market. Computer programming and nursing programs also pay off well, with starting salaries near $60,000 that justify the modest debt burden. These technical programs align with regional demand and provide clear career pathways.
The school's biggest financial risk is its 17% graduation rate. If you don't finish, you'll carry debt without the credential that unlocks higher wages. This makes program selection critical - stick to the high-earning technical fields where completion rates tend to be higher.
You'll find the best value here if you're committed to hands-on technical training rather than academic transfer. The school works financially for students who want direct workforce entry in healthcare, skilled trades, or technology. Avoid liberal arts programs that don't lead to specific careers.
At $13,235 net price annually, costs stay reasonable for a urban location. With 40% of students receiving aid, financial support is available but not universal. Focus on completing quickly in a high-demand program to maximize your investment.
This school makes financial sense for motivated students pursuing specific technical careers, but transfer students or those unsure about their direction should consider four-year options that offer more flexibility for the similar cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Minneapolis Community and Technical College worth the cost?
Minneapolis Community and Technical College can be worth it if you choose the right program and complete your degree. HVAC and computer programming graduates earn $60,000+ annually, but the 17% graduation rate means most students don't finish.
What programs at Minneapolis Community and Technical College have the best job prospects?
HVAC technology offers the highest returns at $63,005 annually, followed by computer programming at $60,094. Nursing and precision metalworking also pay well above the school average of $40,086.
How much debt do Minneapolis Community and Technical College students typically graduate with?
Graduates leave with a median debt of $17,954, which is manageable for high-paying programs like HVAC or nursing. However, this debt becomes problematic if you don't complete your program or enter a lower-paying field.
What is the graduation rate at Minneapolis Community and Technical College?
Only 16.8% of students graduate, which is extremely low even for community colleges. This means most students accumulate debt and time costs without earning a credential.