At $7,697/yr net price, Montgomery Community College graduates earn $32,742/yr within 10 years of enrollment.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $7,697 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $30,788 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $32,742/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | $-1,258/yr |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 53.8% |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $7,517/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $7,977/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $8,131/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $6,099/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Practical Nursing, Vocational Nursing and Nursing Assistants. | Certificate | $33,993 |
The Risk Factor
53.8% of students at Montgomery Community College graduate within 6 years. More than half of students finish, but the dropout rate is a real factor in whether this investment pays off.
Analysis
Montgomery Community College delivers a solid financial return for a two-year institution, with graduates earning $32,742 annually against a net cost of just $7,697 per year. Your investment pays back in under three years if you complete your program.
The practical nursing program stands out as the clear financial winner, with graduates earning $33,993 annually. This puts nursing graduates above the college average and provides strong earning potential in North Carolina's healthcare market. Other programs at Montgomery appear to underperform financially, pulling down the overall median.
The 53.8% graduation rate presents the biggest financial risk. Nearly half of students who enroll never finish, meaning they accumulate costs without the credential needed for higher earnings. If you struggle with self-direction or need extensive academic support, this completion rate should concern you.
Montgomery works best financially if you target high-demand trades or healthcare programs and can complete your degree within the typical timeframe. The low sticker price makes it accessible even if you receive minimal financial aid, which only 28.3% of students get anyway.
You should look elsewhere if you want broad program options with strong earning potential. Montgomery's limited program mix means fewer backup options if your first choice doesn't work out. Students seeking four-year preparation may find better transfer support and completion rates at other community colleges in the University of North Carolina system.
The college works well for career changers and working adults who need affordable, practical training in specific fields, particularly healthcare. Just ensure you can commit to finishing what you start.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Montgomery Community College worth the cost compared to other schools?
At $7,697 per year, Montgomery Community College offers relatively affordable tuition, but graduates earn $32,742 annually after 10 years, which is below average for college graduates. The low cost helps offset the modest earning potential, making it a reasonable choice for students seeking affordable workforce training.
What programs at Montgomery Community College have the best return on investment?
The nursing programs, including Practical Nursing and Nursing Assistants, produce graduates earning around $33,993 annually. These healthcare programs offer the strongest earning potential at the school and align with local job market demand.
How much debt do Montgomery Community College students typically graduate with?
With a net price of $7,697 per year, students can complete their programs with relatively low debt compared to four-year institutions. However, only 54% of students graduate, so there's significant risk of accumulating debt without completing a credential.
Does Montgomery Community College prepare students for good-paying jobs?
Graduate earnings of $32,742 after 10 years are modest but reflect the school's focus on local workforce needs rather than high-paying careers. Students should view this as job training rather than a path to high earnings.